How to Get Rid of a Golden Mantled Ground Squirrel
The golden mantled ground squirrel is a small rodent that closely resembles a chipmunk. They live in burrows and are found in the Western U.S. Homeowners may view these small squirrels as pests because of their tenancy to burrow into landscaped lawns and their intrusions into well-tended gardens. However, there are some simple steps frustrated homeowners can take to help rid their property of golden mantled ground squirrels. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Predator urine
- Chili powder
- Small rodent traps
- Motion-activated repellent devices
Instructions
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Use natural deterrents to keep ground squirrels away if you do not wish to harm or kill these animals. Spray predator urine around lawns or gardens. When squirrels approach the area, they will smell the urine and assume a dangerous predator is nearby. Sprinkling chili powder around plants that squirrels are eating or tearing up may also deter them, as the powder has a harsh and unpleasant smell.
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Set traps to catch ground squirrels. Traps can be purchased at farm supply stores. Place the traps around gardens or areas the squirrels like to frequent and bait with an extremely tasty treat, such as peanut butter or sunflower seeds. Once a squirrel is caught, take the trap a few miles from your home and release the squirrel into a wooded or grassy area.
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Modify the habitat to make it unappealing to ground squirrels. Because these animals need cover to be safe from predators, removing brush and heavy plant growth will make the environment inhospitable to the ground squirrel. Piles of debris should also be removed from your property, as squirrels will use them as cover.
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Install motion-activated repellent devices. When activated, these products emit frightening or irritating sounds that deter ground squirrels from coming closer. These devices work best if installed around the perimeter of a property.
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Tips & Warnings
Reapply any topical repellent, such as predator urine or chili powder, after it rains.
Do not attempt to trap live squirrels if you live in the state of California, where it is illegal to trap squirrels in one area and release them in another. Check with your state's agricultural department for rules and regulations on releasing live animals before using traps to remove squirrels.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
