Have you come across ground squirrels and are wondering how to get rid of them? This article will take you through the various aspects of getting rid of ground squirrels.
What is a Ground Squirrel?
Ground Squirrels are a type of squirrel that is found in North America. They are small, burrowing animals that live in colonies. They can be a problem for homeowners and farmers as they can damage crops and property.
They have a mix of gray, light brown, and dusky fur and range in size from 6 to 12 inches long. Ground squirrels live in burrows underground and eat a variety of things, including seeds, nuts, fruits, and insects.
They get their name from the fact that they live in burrows underground. The most distinguishing characteristic of ground squirrels is their mottled fur, which helps them to blend in with their surroundings.
How To Identify Ground Squirrels?
Ground squirrels are distinguishable from tree squirrels by their head stripes and body markings. They have reddish-brown fur with black and white stripes on their heads. They also have a characteristic “dark patch” on their shoulders.
While they may seem harmless, they can carry a variety of dangerous diseases that can be transmitted to humans through bites or contact with the animal’s corpse.
It is important to take caution when dealing with these animals and always consult a professional if you are unsure about getting rid of them.
Where do Ground Squirrels live?
Ground squirrels are common in North America and can be found living in burrows and dens on hillsides or low berms. They are known for their characteristic bushy tail.
They live in colonies that can range in size from a few individuals to over 100. Their burrows vary in length from 5-35 feet and are about 4-5″ in diameter.
The entrances to the burrows are well hidden by vegetation, rocks, or other objects.
In addition, they live in a variety of habitats such as deserts, grasslands, and forests. Ground squirrels build their own burrows, which can be very elaborate with several entrances and tunnels.
What Do Ground Squirrel Holes Look Like?
Ground squirrel holes are easy to spot because they are small and lack surrounding soil.
You might see a pile of dirt next to a hole, which is an indication that the ground squirrel is currently underground. The size of the hole can give you an idea of how long the tunnel is.
They can be a nuisance to any property owner as they dig tunnels and holes in the ground. These tunnels are easy to spot, as they are small and lack surrounding soil.
Keep in mind that ground squirrels can cause a lot of damage to gardens and yards. If you see one hole, there is likely an infestation of ground squirrels in the area, and you should take appropriate steps to get rid of them.
What do Ground Squirrels Eat?
Ground squirrels eat a diet of mostly nuts and seeds, but they will also consume insects, fruits, and other vegetation.
In addition, these creatures are omnivorous, which means that they eat both meat and plants. They typically eat insects, fungi, and other small animals.
What Attracts Ground Squirrels to My Yard?
Ground squirrels are attracted to yards that have food and shelter. They are looking for a place where they can find safety and plenty of food.
If you want to eliminate ground squirrels, you need to remove what is attracting them to your yard. This may include removing food sources, blocking entrances and exits, or using repellents.
Here are some specific things that attract squirrels to the yard –
Food and water
Ground squirrels can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, and yards. They are attracted to areas where there is food and water available.
These creatures are omnivorous animals that feed on a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, fruit, and vegetables. They will also consume insects, small rodents, and other small prey.
If you have a ground squirrel problem, it is important to remove these attractants from your property.
Shelter
Ground squirrels can be a nuisance because they like to live in large, grassy areas that provide plenty of unimpeded space for their excavation.
This can include digging up gardens and flower beds or creating burrows that can undermine the stability of buildings or other structures.
What Damage Do Ground Squirrels Cause?
Ground squirrels can be the cause of a lot of damage to yards and property. They burrow, eat plants, and dig holes which can damage structures.
These creatures damage both personal and public property. In addition to eating crops, they also cause structural damage to buildings when they excavate under them and gnaw on plastic parts.
They are relentless pests that can be difficult to get rid of completely, so it is important to take the necessary precautions before they become a problem.
Signs & Causes of an Infestation
Ground squirrels can be a nuisance and cause destruction in your home. They may chew on wires or furniture, dig through your garden, and contaminate food.
You can look for signs to determine if you have an infestation and the causes that may have led to it.
There are many signs that you may have ground squirrels in your yard or home, including holes in the ground, chewed plants or vegetables, nests, droppings, and more.
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to take steps to get rid of the squirrels as soon as possible.
What Are the Risks a Squirrel Infestation Poses?
Squirrels can pose a number of risks to humans, their property, and other animals. One of the most significant dangers they present is through the fleas they carry.
These fleas are known for spreading a variety of lethal diseases, including plague and tularemia. Additionally, squirrels can damage homes and businesses by gnawing on wires, insulation, and other materials.
They can also cause fires when they chew on electrical wiring.
Ground squirrels pose a real threat to crops and even decorative plants. Squirrels will also chew through wiring, creating electrical hazards and even posing a fire risk.
Do ground squirrels carry any diseases?
Though ground squirrels may appear to be cute and harmless, they can actually carry diseases that are harmful to humans.
They can carry a variety of dangerous diseases, including rabies, leptospirosis, and even the bubonic plague.
These diseases can be spread through bites, saliva, and even contact with the dead animal. It is important to take caution when dealing with these animals and to consult a professional if there is any concern.
How To Get Rid of Ground Squirrels
So far, we have established that a ground squirrel infestation can be a nuisance and a health hazard. Now let us learn the various ways to get rid of them.
Set up decoys
Ground squirrels can be a nuisance on your property. They can damage plants, dig holes, and generally make a mess. One way to get rid of them is by using decoys. You can buy or make decoys that will scare the squirrels away.
You can purchase fake owls or snakes at most stores or make your own decoys out of materials you have around the house. Be sure to change the position of the decoys regularly so that the squirrels don’t become used to them and learn to ignore them.
Use a squirrel trap.
Trapping squirrels is an effective way to get rid of them. There are a variety of traps available on the market, but the most effective type is the squirrel trap.
These traps can be baited with food or nesting material, and when the squirrel enters the trap, it will be unable to escape.
You can buy or make your own trap. The basic idea is to place bait inside the trap and then release the squirrel.
Be sure to check local laws before you set up any traps, as there may be restrictions on what type of traps you can use.
Try squirrel poison bait stations.
One way to eliminate ground squirrels is to try using poison bait stations. You can buy these bait stations preloaded with a rodenticide called Contrac Blox. When the squirrels eat the bait, they will die.
These small boxes that you put the poison in, and the ground squirrels will eat it. It is important to be careful when using this product near children or pets.
Use ultrasonic sound repellents.
Ultrasonic sound repellents emit high-pitched frequencies that are unpleasant to ground squirrels. This noise drives them away and discourages them from returning.
These devices emit sounds that are inaudible to humans but drive ground squirrels away. It is important to note that these sounds may also affect pets, so it is best to keep them indoors when the repellent is turned on.
Make a DIY natural ground squirrel control product.
One way to eliminate ground squirrels is by using a DIY natural ground squirrel control product. One ingredient you can use is spicy peppers. Squirrels are repelled by the taste and smell of these peppers, so that they will stay away from your property.
However, you can use cayenne pepper to make your own DIY natural ground squirrel control product.
Simply mix together water and cayenne pepper in a spray bottle and apply liberally to the areas where the squirrels are present. The cayenne pepper will deter them from coming back.
This solution must be reapplied, but it may be an effective way to keep squirrels away from your garden.
Use a ground squirrel gas bomb.
Ground squirrel gas bombs are an effective way to kill pests quickly. The bombs emit a gas that is harmful to ground squirrels and will kill them within minutes.
These bombs release a gas that kills the squirrels and can be used in areas where they are causing damage or becoming a nuisance.
However, it is important to check with local laws and regulations before using this product, as some areas may not allow products that kill ground squirrels to be used.
Hire a pest control professional to fumigate your yard
Ground squirrels can be a nuisance and can cause damage to your property. While there are various ways to get rid of them, hiring a professional is often the most effective way.
Professionals have the experience and tools necessary to control ground squirrels effectively.
They will know how to safely and effectively remove the ground squirrels from your property.
Summary
Squirrels may be charming, but they’re also quite destructive, so don’t take them for granted. Besides that, ground squirrels pose a concern to human health and safety since they may transmit illnesses and fleas, and their constant chewing of wire in our automobiles and houses can result in fire dangers.