Are you tired of pesky ground squirrels wreaking havoc in your yard? You’re not alone! From digging up gardens and flowerbeds to leaving messes around, these critters can be an annoying presence if not dealt with properly. Luckily, it’s possible to take matters into your own hands and get rid of ground squirrels humanely.
Ground squirrels are a type of rodent found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They are known for their burrowing habits and can cause damage to lawns, gardens, and even structural foundations if left unchecked.
In this blog post, we’ll provide simple step-by-step instructions on how to get rid of ground squirrels in my yard—so you can enjoy a pleasant outdoor area once more. Ready to learn more about ways to deter these unwanted guests? Read on!
What Will You Need?
Before we dive into the methods of getting rid of ground squirrels, it’s essential to gather some supplies. Here are a few items you may need for the process:
- Protective Gear: Depending on your chosen method, you may need gloves, goggles, or a mask to protect yourself.
- Traps: There are different types of traps available, such as live traps and lethal traps. Decide which one is best for your situation.
- Deterrents: Some natural or store-bought products can help keep ground squirrels away from your yard.
Now that you have your supplies ready, it’s time to get started!
10 Easy Steps on How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels in My Yard
Step 1. Identify the Problem Areas:
Start by identifying where the ground squirrels are most active in your yard. Look for signs of digging or burrowing, as these are likely their nests. Knowing where they are concentrated will help with your trapping and deterrent placement.
Step 2. Choose Your Method:
Once you’ve identified the problem areas, decide on your method for removing the ground squirrels. If you’re looking for a non-lethal approach, live trapping followed by relocation may be your best bet.
Alternatively, if the infestation is severe, consider lethal traps or professional pest control services.
For a more preventative measure, consider using deterrents—these could be natural remedies like planting squirrel-repelling flowers or store-bought products designed to keep these critters away. Choose the method that best suits your situation and comfort level.
Step 3. Set Up Traps or Apply Deterrents:
After deciding on your preferred method, it’s time to set up the traps or apply the deterrents. If you’re using traps, place them near the areas where squirrels’ activity is highest. Bait the traps with foods that attract squirrels, such as nuts or seeds.
If you’re using deterrents, apply them around the perimeter of your yard, near the burrows, and in your garden. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you’re using a store-bought product. Whether you’re trapping or deterring, remember to check the areas frequently to monitor progress.
Step 4. Check the Traps Regularly:
If you’ve chosen trapping as your method, it’s essential to check the traps regularly. Ground squirrels caught in live traps should be relocated soon to minimize stress. For lethal traps, regular checking ensures that they are disposed of promptly, maintaining a humane approach.
If you notice the traps aren’t effective, you may need to change the bait or the location of the traps.
Step 5. Relocate or Dispose of Trapped Squirrels:
After trapping, it’s time to either relocate the animals or dispose of them. If you’re using live traps, drive the squirrels at least a few miles from your home before releasing them. Ensure you’re releasing them in an area where they won’t bother other homeowners.
For lethal traps, follow local guidelines for wildlife disposal. Always handle traps carefully and wear protective gear to prevent potential bites or scratches.
Step 6. Monitor and Adapt Your Strategy:
Monitoring your yard and adapting your strategy is crucial in controlling ground squirrels. If you notice the traps or deterrents need to be fixed as effectively as desired, rethink your approach.
You may need to relocate the traps, change the bait, adjust the placement of deterrents, or even switch to a different method altogether. Remember, it’s often a case of trial and error until you find what works best for your specific situation.
Step 7. Repair the Damage:
Once you’ve managed to get the ground squirrels under control, it’s time to repair the damage they’ve caused. Fill in any caves or holes to prevent them from returning or other animals from taking advantage.
If your lawn or garden has been damaged, consider reseeding or replanting. You may also want to install wire mesh or fencing to protect certain areas from future infestations. It may take some time and effort, but restoring your yard to its former glory is an important part of the process.
Step 8. Implement Preventive Measures:
Prevention is key in controlling ground squirrel populations in your yard. This could involve regular yard maintenance, such as filling holes and removing food sources that may attract them, like bird feeders or fallen fruit.
Consider installing fencing or wire mesh around your garden or other vulnerable areas. Planting certain types of flowers or plants that squirrels find unappealing can also be a natural deterrent. Remember, ongoing prevention is just as important as the initial eradication.
Step 9. Regular Monitoring and Maintenance:
After implementing preventive measures, regular monitoring and maintenance is essential to ensure ground squirrels don’t return. Keep an eye out for any signs of new infestations like fresh burrows or plant damage, and act promptly. Regularly clean up fallen fruits, nuts, or seeds that could attract squirrels back to your yard.
Ensuring your fences or barriers remain intact and repairing them as needed is also crucial. Remember, ground squirrel control is an ongoing process, and vigilance is key to keeping your yard squirrel-free.
Step 10. Seek Professional Help If Needed:
If all your efforts do not produce the desired results, or if the ground squirrel infestation is too severe for you to handle, don’t hesitate to call the professionals. Pest control services have the equipment and expertise to safely and efficiently eradicate ground squirrels from your yard.
They can also provide advice and solutions for long-term prevention to keep these pesky critters from returning. Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help when necessary—it’s better to handle the situation effectively than to risk potential damage or safety concerns.
By following these steps and implementing preventive measures, you can effectively eliminate ground squirrels in your yard
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Plant Squirrel Repelling Flowers: Certain plants, like daffodils and hyacinths, have a strong scent that squirrels find unpleasant. Adding these to your garden can deter them from entering your yard.
- Use Natural Predators: Owls and hawks are natural predators of ground squirrels. By installing a nest box or perch for these birds, you could encourage them to visit your yard and deter squirrels.
- Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Sudden, unexpected movement can scare away ground squirrels. Motion-activated sprinklers can be a non-lethal way to keep squirrels away from your yard.
- Use Commercial Repellents: There are numerous commercial squirrel repellents available on the market. These usually contain ingredients that squirrels find unpleasant, deterring them from your yard.
- Keep Your Yard Clean: Squirrels are attracted to food sources, so keeping your yard clean and debris-free can make it less appealing for them. Make sure to regularly pick up fallen fruits and nuts, and keep garbage cans sealed tightly.
Once you have successfully removed the ground squirrels from your yard, you must take preventive measures to ensure they don’t return.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Leaving Pet Food Outdoors: Pet food can attract ground squirrels. Ensure to feed your pets indoors or promptly remove leftover food if fed outside.
- Avoid Over-Watering Your Lawn: Ground squirrels favor moist soil for digging their burrows. Over-watering your lawn can make it an inviting home for these creatures.
- Avoid Bird Feeders: Bird feeders can be an easy food source for ground squirrels. If you must have one, opt for a squirrel-proof design or hang them high off the ground where squirrels can’t reach.
- Avoid Piles of Wood or Debris: Ground squirrels find such spots an ideal nesting place. Keeping your yard clean and free from such clutter can deter ground squirrels.
- Avoid Harmful Poisons or Traps: These can harm other wildlife or pets and might not be a humane way to deal with your squirrel problem. Explore non-lethal and environmentally friendly methods first.
By avoiding these common pitfalls and implementing the tips and tricks mentioned above, you can successfully eliminate ground squirrels in your yard and prevent them from returning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to get rid of ground squirrels in my yard requires a combination of proactive and reactive measures. It’s important to take action before the problem gets out of hand and remember that prevention is key.
From types of traps to natural home remedies, you can use many methods to encourage ground squirrels to stay away from your property. Don’t forget the importance of also cleaning up any food sources or areas that they may consider a haven. Taking all these steps can help you keep your yard free from ground squirrels in no time.
So what are you waiting for? With plenty of tried and tested home remedies, traps, and practical tips, there’s no need to be afraid or anxious about how to get rid of ground squirrels in your yard – you have all the tools needed! Take action now and enjoy reclaiming your outdoor area for yourself and your loved ones.