How To Catch A Ground Squirrel
To catch ground squirrels, you can live trap them. However, this method requires transporting the animal at least five miles away. This method is not suitable for every ground squirrel, as some states prohibit the release of the animal. To learn more, read our article below. This article covers trapping, fumigation, and poisoning methods. In case you are considering these methods, follow the tips carefully. Hopefully, the following information will help you get rid of ground squirrels in your backyard.
Table of Contents
Habitat modification
When catching a ground squirrel, it is essential to consider its habitat. Ground squirrels prefer open areas, although they can also use cover during retreat. Regardless of the type of habitat, removing brush will reduce ground squirrels’ desire for the area and help them access their burrows. California ground squirrels, in particular, dislike dense vegetation, which keeps predators out. Avoid mowing areas where ground squirrels can hide, but be aware that this practice may encourage the pest species.
The main factors responsible for the decline in ground squirrel populations are habitat conversion and loss. Human activities such as urbanization, agricultural development, logging of old-growth forests, and fire suppression alter the ecosystems of many species. In the western United States, overgrazing of shrub-steppe habitat has resulted in the invasion of exotic grasses, which contribute to increased fire frequency. Loss of shrubs also affects the microclimate and reduces food and protective cover. Ground squirrel populations decline because of habitat loss.
Trapping
Before trapping a ground squirrel, you should first observe its burrow and identify the entrance. Then, wedge the trap’s door end into the hole. If the squirrel is large enough, it will be able to push through the trap’s “V” trigger and enter. Then, set the trap so it can’t be reached by your pets or children. Make sure to follow local regulations when using a trap.
To get rid of this rodent, you may need to use lethal methods. However, these methods are very dangerous and can cause severe side effects if used improperly. There are several less aggressive and more humane methods you can try instead. The following are some of them:
Fumigation
Several methods are available for catching ground squirrels. Trapping and fumigation are both effective methods for catching the creatures, but they have some drawbacks. Trapping can be ineffective if the squirrels are active and the soil is moist, and fumigation is best applied in the spring or early summer, when the ground is still wet. Fumigation is also less effective when the ground is dry, since the toxic gas can escape through small cracks in the soil.
When using traps, always remember to use gloves and to place nuts behind the trigger to lure the animal into the trap. The trap should be checked daily and any dead ground squirrels should be disposed of appropriately. Always remember to wear protective gear and not let children near the traps, as you may harm them. You can also make use of home remedies to repel ground squirrels. For most ground squirrel infestations, you should apply fumigation at least two times per year.
Poisoning
If you’ve ever wondered how to poison a ground squirrel, you’re not alone. Scientists at Stanford University have been killing ground squirrels for over a year, in a program that involves giving the animals poisoned food. The anticoagulant causes the animals to die of hypovolemic circulatory shock and severe anemia. The program has caused controversy among bird watchers on campus, who recall the recent poisoning of owls. While it’s possible to poison a ground squirrel using a bait, there’s a significant risk that poisoning the animals will affect the higher levels of the food chain.
To poison a ground squirrel, apply a bait to its nest, which is located outside. If you’re using a poison, be sure to check the label before you start applying it, since it can cause severe effects in humans. Be sure to follow all safety precautions, and be careful not to spray poison near children or other animals. This poison can harm your garden or lawn. Always read the label, so you don’t poison non-target animals.
Glue board
Glue boards are a convenient way to catch a ground squirrel. These traps are available both commercially and homemade. Once the animal has been trapped, glue boards can be disposed of with the animal. However, these traps do not kill the animals that are trapped in them, and they are not recommended for dirty environments. Glue boards are also quite attractive to children and pets, which could endanger the life of the animal caught on them.
You can use glue boards to catch a ground squirrel, but they are fragile. This is because the squirrel may chew a leg off the glue board trap. To avoid this, you can use snap traps. The snaps should be large enough to trap a rat. The glue board should be made of heavy-duty material and a rat’s size. It may take a few tries to get a ground squirrel to cooperate, so keep this in mind when constructing the traps.
Snap trap
You can use a snap trap to catch a ground squirrel. However, there are a couple of things you need to know before setting one. One of the most important things to know is the species of the ground squirrel you’re trying to catch. The best way to trap a ground squirrel is to watch for its burrows. Then, wedge the door end of the trap into the entrance. Be sure to prop the open end of the trap up with a wooden block or other suitable object. The animal will push past the door and into the trap. You should also know that this method is not recommended in areas where the ground squirrel is breeding or infested with other wildlife.
To use a snap trap, bait it with peanut butter. If the ground squirrel is young, it may not be large enough to spring rat-sized traps. For this purpose, hot-glue nutmeat to the trigger of the snap trap. This will prevent the ground squirrel from removing the bait. The next step is to carefully place the snap trap near the ground squirrel’s habitat. If you can’t get your hands on the squirrel, then the next best thing is to wait until it is bigger.
What supplies do you need to catch a ground squirrel?
A live trap food and water.
How do you bait the trap?
Ground squirrels are attracted to nuts seeds and fruits.
Where should you place the trap?
Ground squirrels generally live in burrows underground.
Place the trap near the opening of the burrow.
Should the trap be covered?
No the trap should not be covered.
How often should you check the trap?
Check the trap at least once every 24 hours.
What do you do with the ground squirrel once you catch it?
Release the ground squirrel at least 5 miles away from where it was caught.
What if the ground squirrel is injured?
If the ground squirrel is injured contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center.
What if the ground squirrel is dead?
If the ground squirrel is dead dispose of it properly.
What if you can’t release the ground squirrel?
If you can’t release the ground squirrel contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center.
What if you don’t have a live trap?
If you don’t have a live trap you can try to build one.
What if you can’t catch a ground squirrel?
If you can’t catch a ground squirrel you can try baiting and waiting.
What is the best time of day to catch a ground squirrel?
The best time of day to catch a ground squirrel is early in the morning or late at night.
What is the best time of year to catch a ground squirrel?
The best time of year to catch a ground squirrel is in the spring or summer.
What are some other ways to get rid of ground squirrels?
Some other ways to get rid of ground squirrels are to use a repellent or to trap and release them.
What are some signs that there are ground squirrels in an area?
Some signs that there are ground squirrels in an area are holes in the ground burrows and damage to plants.

Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.