Identifying ground squirrels requires much more than looking out the window and observing a squirrel on the ground.
Ground squirrels are much larger than other tree squirrels. Their weight ranges from 3 to 15 or more pounds. They have fur that resembles the colors of the earth to help them blend in and hide. Their tails are thinner and less bushy than most other squirrels.
As their name indicates, these squirrels mostly stick to the ground even though they are excellent climbers. Ground squirrels make shelters underground and dig extensive tunnels, which can lead to problems on properties with expensive landscaping or crop fields.
How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels from Yard
Working with a wildlife control expert is best for ground squirrel control and removal. For example, you will receive several options when you call to inquire how to get rid of thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Below are examples of the various options available:
Habitat Modification
If not done correctly, modifying the habitat of ground squirrels can lead to other problems. It’s imperative to get expert advice. For example, squirrels avoid thick vegetation. Allowing areas on your property to grow will keep the squirrels away but may also attract other nuisance wildlife. Creating flooded areas will deter squirrels but may waste much-needed water. A wildlife technician can help you find the proper modifications for your site based on your specific ground squirrel problem.
Repellants
Using repellants to create an invisible fence around your property can help with ground squirrel control. Scents and sounds are recommended for repellants. The smell of coyote urine makes squirrels feel threatened. However, if it is placed in the wrong location, near an excellent food source, or burrows, it will not work.
Applying different sound repellants can keep ground squirrels away. Depending on the issues you are experiencing, an expert can recommend things like predator sounds and ultrasounds. They can also help you determine if you need daytime or nighttime repellants, motion-activated, and remote control.
Toxicants and Baits
Depending on which one, toxicants can be dangerous for humans and are not recommended for getting rid of ground squirrels. Also, you must check state laws to ensure it is legal to use the chemicals. They fall into two categories: first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (FGARs) and zinc phosphide. Hiring an expert can help you choose which can be used in residential areas and for fields only and discuss price differences and effectiveness.
Exclusions and Fencing
Exclusions are techniques specific to each animal causing a nuisance on your property. Install sturdy metal fencing above and below ground around your garden or other parts of your property to deter ground squirrels, including the thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Also, use plastic netting and row covers to protect plants. If you must feed birds, use a squirrel barrier or fill it with the food they hate.
Other exclusion tips include decluttering your yard, maintaining the lawn, installing tree barriers or netting, and keeping branches trimmed.
Ground Squirrel Trapping
Companies such as Critter Control have a safe and humane trapping system that protects you, the squirrel, and the technician. Different types of traps include bait and cage. With both types, you must know which bait to use, where to place the traps, and how to avoid attracting wildlife other than the ground squirrel.
You must also understand local and state laws regarding trapping squirrels. Some are considered fur-bearing game animals and require hunting and trapping licenses. Because they may have diseases, it is illegal to relocate a squirrel to another area. Therefore, you must have a plan for what you will do after ground squirrel removal. Another thing to consider includes regulations regarding testing the squirrel for diseases.
A wildlife expert, like the technicians at Critter Control, can help you each step of the way, from inspection to exclusions.
Find Service in your Area:
Get them out.
Keep them out.®
Experiencing a wildlife or pest issue? We can help! Complete this form and your local Critter Control® office will contact you to assist.
Coloration varies from shades of brown to full black coats, and the squirrels may have different patterns on their fur, such as spots or lines. Ground squirrels are typically small in size, reaching only about a foot in length, excluding the tail. They possess claws for digging and climbing along with teeth that continually grow, as seen in other rodent species as well.
Found throughout the world except for Antarctica, ground squirrels typically live in dry, hot climates, though they also hold a presence in Alaska and surrounding Canadian territories. The Western and Central United States are home to a range of species who favor varying types of habitation. Generally, ground squirrels enjoy tunneling around some natural form of cover, such as shrubs, and avoid wetlands and dense forests. Living in colonies, ground squirrels can dig tunnels capable of housing dozens of their kind.
Are ground squirrels known to enter homes or yards?
Ground squirrels often gain entry to homes via small openings, though the seasoned tunnel builders prefer outside underground environments for shelter. However, that’s not to say they won’t attempt a home invasion. Buildings that provide shelter and food often attract the small rodents, which can lead to headaches down the road.
Do ground squirrels harm people or property?
In general, ground squirrels near homes or businesses causes quite a bit of damage. The wild animals gnaw on building structures and leave behind hazardous biological waste, which causes disease if left alone. As tunneling rodents, ground squirrels can damage flowers, crops, and healthy lawns. Tunnel systems can extend to great lengths, having been reported to cover distances of more than 30 feet at times. The numerous entrance holes to these tunnels threaten the well-being of livestock and can lead to damaged machinery and personal injury.
Ground squirrels can be dangerous when cornered, as threatened squirrels bite and scratch to reach safety. Deter entry by sealing small openings large enough to entice the squirrels indoors, and limit possible food sources both inside and outside. Most reported problems arise from the animal’s predisposition for building extensive tunnel systems. Ground squirrel control is difficult when large numbers of the pest are around. Hiring trained professionals is a sure way to effectively control populations of ground squirrels.
Each species reacts differently to various repellant techniques, so the proper identification of the inhabiting pest is vital. For this reason, ground squirrel removal is best handled by professionals. Animal control specialists have eradicated many squirrel infestations in the past and offer the best tools and experience to deal with individual problems. Once ground squirrels have been removed, check consistently for returning animals. The resilient species often tries to retake lost burrow systems and inhabit old dens left over from other colonies.
- Do Ground Squirrels Hibernate?
- Where Do Ground Squirrels Live?
- Ground Squirrel Droppings
- Ground Squirrel Holes
- Ground Squirrels vs. Tree Squirrels
- What Does a Ground Squirrel Look Like?
- Ground Squirrel Damage
- Ground Squirrel Tracks
- Ground Squirrels in and under the House
- How to Keep Ground Squirrels Out of the Garden