Effective Methods For Eliminating Digger Squirrels From Your Property

If you've ever found your garden being torn apart by mischievous digger squirrels, you know just how frustrating it can be. These pesky critters can wreak havoc on your flower beds, vegetable patches, and even dig up your beloved plant bulbs. But fear not! In this guide, we'll explore some effective methods to get rid of digger squirrels and reclaim your garden oasis. Say goodbye to these troublesome pests and hello to a lush and thriving outdoor space once again.

What are some effective methods for getting rid of digger squirrels?

Digger squirrels can be a nuisance, digging up lawns and gardens, causing damage to vegetation, and even burrowing into buildings. If you're dealing with these pesky critters and looking for effective methods to get rid of them, there are a few strategies you can try. Here are some scientifically proven and practical steps to help you eliminate digger squirrels from your property.

• Identify the Digger Squirrels: The first step in tackling any pest problem is to correctly identify the species. Digger squirrels commonly found in North America include ground squirrels, chipmunks, and thirteen-lined squirrels. Different species may require slightly different approaches, so it's essential to recognize which type you're dealing with.
• Remove Food Sources: Digger squirrels are attracted to areas abundant in food sources. To discourage their presence, remove any food or water sources from your yard that may be attracting them. This can include bird feeders, fallen fruits or nuts, and open trash cans.
• Fencing: Installing a mesh barrier around your garden or property can be an effective deterrent. Use a sturdy hardware cloth or chicken wire and bury it at least a foot into the ground to prevent digger squirrels from burrowing underneath. Make sure to also secure it above ground level to keep them from climbing over.
• Scare Tactics: Digger squirrels can be scared away by various methods. Implement a combination of visual and auditory deterrents to make your property less appealing. Place reflective objects like tin cans or CDs near their burrows to create disorienting flashes of light. Use noise-making devices such as wind chimes, radios, or ultrasonic repellers. Change the position of these scare tactics periodically to prevent the squirrels from getting used to them.
• Trapping: Trapping can be an effective method for removing digger squirrels. Choose live traps designed for squirrels and place them near their burrows or along their habitual travel paths. Bait the trap with enticing food such as nuts or peanut butter. Check the traps regularly and release captured squirrels far away from your property.
• Natural Predators: Encouraging natural predators can help control digger squirrel populations. Owls, hawks, snakes, and domesticated pets like cats and dogs are natural predators of these small mammals. Creating a habitat to attract these predators, such as providing nesting boxes or perches, can help keep digger squirrel populations under control.
• Repellents: There are several commercially available repellent sprays designed to deter squirrels. These sprays often contain natural substances like capsaicin or predator urine that squirrels find unpleasant. Apply these repellents around potential entry points, burrows, or areas where the squirrels are active.
• Exclusion Techniques: Identify any potential entry points into your home or other structures and seal them off. Use metal flashing or wire mesh to cover openings and ensure there are no gaps or holes that squirrels can squeeze through. Trim tree branches that hang over roofs, as squirrels can easily jump from trees onto buildings.

It's important to note that digger squirrels are protected species in some regions. Before taking any action, check local regulations and consult with wildlife control experts if necessary. Additionally, it may be helpful to schedule regular maintenance to prevent future infestations and keep your property squirrel-free.

In conclusion, getting rid of digger squirrels may require a combination of strategies. By identifying the species, removing food sources, implementing scare tactics and exclusion techniques, using traps or repellents, and encouraging natural predators, you can effectively control digger squirrel populations and protect your property.

Are there any natural or humane ways to deter digger squirrels from my yard or garden?

Digger squirrels can be quite a nuisance in yards and gardens, as they have a tendency to dig up flower beds and vegetable patches in search of food or to create burrows. However, there are several natural and humane ways to deter these furry creatures from causing damage to your outdoor space.

• Fence off your garden: Installing a fence around your garden can be an effective way to keep digger squirrels out. Opt for a sturdy fence with small holes or mesh to prevent squirrels from squeezing through. Make sure to bury the bottom of the fence at least 6 inches below the ground to discourage them from digging under it.
• Create barriers: If a fence is not feasible, you can create barriers using materials such as chicken wire or hardware cloth. Place these barriers around vulnerable areas like flower beds or vegetable gardens. Ensure that the barriers extend at least 18 inches above the ground to prevent squirrels from jumping over them.
• Use natural deterrents: Certain scents and tastes can act as natural deterrents for squirrels. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper around your garden beds to discourage them from digging. Squirrels have a strong sense of smell and are repelled by the scent of predators, so consider using predator urine or predator scent repellents near your garden area.
• Install motion-activated sprinklers: Motion-activated sprinklers are an effective way to deter squirrels from entering your yard. These sprinklers release a sudden burst of water when they detect movement, startling the squirrels and teaching them to avoid the area. Place the sprinklers strategically near your garden beds or areas where squirrels tend to dig.
• Provide alternative food sources: Squirrels often dig up gardens in search of food, so providing them with alternative food sources can help divert their attention. Hang bird feeders or place squirrel feeders filled with nuts and seeds away from your garden. This way, the squirrels will be more likely to focus on these food sources rather than digging in your yard.
• Remove attractants: Keep your yard free of any attractive food sources that may entice squirrels. Ensure that garbage cans are tightly sealed, and pick up fallen fruits or nuts from trees on a regular basis. By removing these attractants, you can discourage squirrels from frequenting your yard.
• Maintain a tidy garden: Regularly maintain your garden by pruning overhanging branches and trimming shrubs. This eliminates any potential hiding spots for squirrels and reduces their ability to access your garden easily.

It's important to note that while these methods can help deter digger squirrels, they may not provide a 100% guarantee. Squirrels are agile and resourceful creatures, so it may take a combination of these strategies to effectively discourage them from digging in your yard or garden. Patience and persistence are key when dealing with squirrel-related issues, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. With time and consistent efforts, you can create a digger squirrel-free outdoor space.

Are there any specific plants or flowers that digger squirrels dislike and can be used as a deterrent?

Digger squirrels can be a major nuisance in gardens and yards, as they dig up flower beds and destroy plants. Many homeowners struggle to find ways to deter these pesky critters and protect their gardens. One solution that is often suggested is planting specific plants and flowers that digger squirrels dislike. In this article, we will explore some of these plants and flowers and discuss how they can be used as a deterrent.

One plant that digger squirrels typically dislike is the daffodil (Narcissus). Daffodils have bulbs that contain toxic alkaloids, which make them unappealing to squirrels. These beautiful yellow flowers can add a pop of color to your garden while also protecting it from the unwanted digging behavior of squirrels. Planting daffodils around the perimeter of your flower beds can help keep squirrels at bay.

Another plant that squirrels tend to dislike is the marigold (Tagetes). Marigolds have a strong smell that repels many pests, including squirrels. These flowers come in various colors and are easy to grow, making them a popular choice for gardens. Planting marigolds around your vulnerable plants can help deter squirrels from digging them up.

Some homeowners have also found success in using plants with prickly or thorny foliage to deter digger squirrels. For example, rose bushes (Rosa) and holly shrubs (Ilex) can create a barrier that is difficult for squirrels to navigate. The sharp thorns and prickly leaves discourage squirrels from venturing into these areas, keeping your plants safe from their digging habits.

In addition to specific plants and flowers, there are other deterrents that can be used to discourage digger squirrels. For instance, sprinkling red pepper flakes or using a garlic spray on your plants can make them less appetizing to squirrels. Additionally, installing physical barriers such as chicken wire or mesh around your flower beds can help prevent squirrels from digging.

It is important to note that while these plants and deterrents may be effective for some homeowners, they may not work in every situation. Digger squirrels are known for their persistence and adaptability, so it may be necessary to try a combination of techniques to find the best solution for your garden.

In conclusion, there are several plants and flowers that digger squirrels tend to dislike. Daffodils, marigolds, and plants with prickly foliage like rose bushes and holly shrubs can be used as deterrents to protect your garden from squirrel digging. Additionally, using repellents like red pepper flakes and garlic spray, as well as installing physical barriers, can help keep squirrels at bay. Remember that every garden is unique, so it may require some trial and error to find the most effective deterrents for your specific situation.

Are there any products or repellents that can be applied to the soil or plants to deter digger squirrels?

If you have ever had a problem with digger squirrels in your garden, you know how frustrating it can be. These pesky critters have a knack for digging up newly planted bulbs and seeds, destroying your hard work and leaving unsightly holes in their wake. Luckily, there are several products and repellents that can be applied to the soil or plants to deter digger squirrels and protect your garden.

One of the most effective methods for deterring digger squirrels is using physical barriers. This can include installing underground wire mesh around your garden beds to prevent squirrels from digging. You can also place chicken wire or hardware cloth over newly planted bulbs and seeds to deter squirrels from digging them up. These methods create a barrier that squirrels are unable to penetrate, effectively protecting your plants and bulbs.

Another option is to use natural repellents that can be applied to the soil or plants. One such repellent is blood meal, a natural fertilizer that is derived from dried animal blood. Squirrels are deterred by the scent of blood meal and will avoid areas where it is applied. Simply sprinkle blood meal around your garden beds or mix it into the soil before planting to create a scent deterrent for digger squirrels.

Another natural repellent is cayenne pepper. Squirrels are known to dislike the scent and taste of spicy substances, so sprinkling cayenne pepper around your plants or mixing it with water to create a spray can help deter them from digging. However, it's important to note that cayenne pepper can be irritating to both humans and animals, so use it sparingly and take care to avoid contact with your eyes and skin.

There are also commercially available squirrel repellents that can be applied to the soil or plants. These repellents often contain ingredients such as hot peppers, garlic, or predator urine, which squirrels find offensive. They can be applied directly to the soil or sprayed onto plants to create a deterrent for digger squirrels. It's important to follow the instructions on the product packaging and reapply as needed, as these repellents may wash away over time.

In addition to using physical barriers and repellents, it's also a good idea to make your garden less attractive to squirrels in the first place. This can include removing any bird feeders that may be attracting squirrels, as well as eliminating potential food sources such as fallen nuts or fruit. Keeping your garden clean and free of debris can also help deter squirrels from digging, as they are less likely to be attracted to an area that does not offer shelter or hiding places.

In conclusion, there are several products and repellents that can be applied to the soil or plants to deter digger squirrels and protect your garden. Using physical barriers, natural repellents such as blood meal or cayenne pepper, and commercially available squirrel repellents can all be effective methods for deterring squirrels from digging. Combined with good garden maintenance practices, these methods can help ensure that your garden remains squirrel-free and your plants remain undisturbed.

Are there any long-term solutions for preventing digger squirrels from returning to my property?

Digger squirrels can be a nuisance, damaging lawns, gardens, and sometimes even causing structural damage to property. While there are various short-term solutions to deter squirrels, such as repellents and traps, finding long-term solutions can be more challenging. However, by understanding the behavior and habitat of digger squirrels, there are effective measures you can take to prevent them from returning to your property.

• Identify the digger squirrel species: There are different species of digger squirrels, including ground squirrels and chipmunks. Understanding the specific species that are causing problems will help you tailor your prevention techniques accordingly. For instance, ground squirrels are larger and live in burrows, while chipmunks are smaller and create small holes in the ground.
• Remove attractants: Digger squirrels are often attracted to food sources and comfortable habitats. Make sure to remove any sources that may be attracting them, such as bird feeders, pet food left outside, or easily accessible garbage cans. Additionally, keep your yard well-maintained and free of clutter, as digger squirrels are attracted to piles of debris.
• Eliminate burrowing opportunities: Digger squirrels create burrows for shelter and nesting. Inspect your property for potential burrowing sites, such as loose soil around the foundation, gaps under decks or sheds, and holes in fences. Fill these areas with rocks, wire mesh, or other deterrents to prevent squirrels from digging. Regularly inspect and repair any damage to your property that may serve as an entry point for squirrels.
• Install barriers: Physical barriers can be effective in preventing squirrels from entering specific areas of your property. Use wire mesh or hardware cloth to cover openings in structures, such as crawl spaces or vents. Place fencing around your garden or raised beds to keep squirrels out. Bury the fence at least 1 foot deep to prevent squirrels from burrowing underneath it.
• Use natural deterrents: There are several natural deterrents you can use to discourage digger squirrels from returning to your property. For example, sprinkle cayenne pepper or vinegar around the perimeter of your garden or areas where squirrels are causing damage. Squirrels have sensitive noses and are often repelled by strong smells. You can also plant species that squirrels dislike, such as daffodils or hyacinths, as a natural deterrent.
• Employ predator decoys: Digger squirrels are prey animals and are naturally wary of predators. Consider using decoys or scare devices that resemble natural predators, such as owl statues or fake snakes, strategically placed around your property. This can create an environment of perceived threat, deterring squirrels from returning.
• Remove existing burrows: If you have identified existing burrows on your property, it is important to remove them properly. Seal any active burrows to prevent the digger squirrels from returning or other animals from using them. Make sure to check for any signs of activity before sealing the burrow, as squirrels may still be inhabiting them.

By implementing these long-term solutions, you can effectively prevent digger squirrels from returning to your property. It's important to remember that persistence and consistency are key when dealing with squirrels. Regularly inspect and maintain your property to ensure that new habitats or attractants are not introduced. With time and diligence, you can enjoy a squirrel-free property.

Frequently asked questions