How to Get Rid of Squirrels and Moles in the Garden
One of the most common questions people have about how to get rid of squirrels and moles in the garden is whether poison baits and live capture traps work. While poisons are effective at getting rid of moles and squirrels, you must use them as the last resort if you don’t want to risk the safety of your children or pets. If you are unsure of whether poisons work, read this article to find out which methods are best for your situation.
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Castor oil
If you want to get rid of squirrels and moles from your garden, then use a natural repellent such as castor oil. The repellent works just as well as commercial products, but it is much cheaper and easier to apply. Moth balls give off a bad odor, but moles and squirrels don’t care about them. You can also use garlic and chocolate lilies.
Gopher gasser
The most effective way to get rid of squirrels is to repel them before they have the chance to make a complicated nest system. They can cause significant damage to structures, especially when they live in multiple territories. One method to repel squirrels is to use mothballs or similar chemical repellents. However, mothballs are not pleasant for humans, so you may want to consider using alternatives. One natural option is to use vinegar to repel squirrels. Place a cotton cloth soaked in cider vinegar in areas of the home that are susceptible to squirrels. The vinegar evaporates over time, so you may have to replace the cloth after some time.
Live capture traps
There are several types of live capture traps available for use on rodents and other animals. Baited traps are the least invasive method, and usually involve luring the prey with bait. The bait will eventually cause the animal to become electrocuted. The body grip trap is placed outside the burrow and triggers when the squirrel pokes out. This method is grisly but effective.
Poisonous baits
If you’re battling a squirrel and mole infestation, you’ve probably considered poisonous baits. These are usually a combination of diphacinone and chlorophacinone, which will kill the animals if they eat them. To make your own poison bait, spread rolled oats on a flat surface and mix in the poison. Sprinkle the bait over the location where the safe grains have been eaten. Apply about one to two tablespoons per location.
Keeping your yard clean
In addition to poisoning your lawn, you can also use a chemical or organic repellent to keep the creatures out. Mole and squirrel traps are especially effective because they work by providing a strong odor. If you want to keep them away, it is also wise to pick up your fruit and vegetable scraps. Mole and squirrel repellents are not only effective for moles, but for other small animals as well.
Using decoys
Using decoys to get rid or squirrel s and moles can be an effective way to control a pest infestation. Many homeowners do not have the time to hunt squirrels and moles on their own. By placing a scare decoy in areas that squirrels frequent, homeowners can get rid of these animals. In addition, squirrel decoys also serve as conversation pieces, so you can place them near patio furniture.
Using electronic solutions
Whether you’re facing a squirrel infestation or are in the process of installing a solar-powered pest control system, you’re likely looking for ways to keep the animals out. While it’s tempting to use poison, it’s far from safe, and it can actually harm your family’s pets. Instead, consider using electronic solutions to get rid of moles and squirrels.
How can I get rid of squirrels?
Answer 1: Trapping and removing them is the most common and effective method.
How can I keep squirrels away from my property?
Answer 2: Remove potential food sources seal up entry points and use squirrel-resistant products.
What kind of damage do squirrels cause?
Answer 3: They can cause significant damage to your property by chewing on electrical wires digging holes and destroying insulation.
What do squirrels eat?
Answer 4: Squirrels are mainly herbivores but will also eat small insects eggs and nestlings.
Where do squirrels live?
Answer 5: Squirrels live in trees attics and burrows.
Are squirrels active during the day or night?
Answer 6: Squirrels are generally diurnal but can be active at night if there is a food source available.
What is the life span of a squirrel?
Answer 7: The life span of a squirrel is 1-2 years in the wild and up to 10 years in captivity.
How many young do squirrels have?
Answer 8: Mother squirrels typically give birth to 2-5 young per litter.
What is the gestation period for a squirrel?
Answer 9: The gestation period for a squirrel is 35-45 days.
When do squirrels have their young?
Answer 10: Squirrels have their young typically in the spring.
How can I tell if I have a squirrel infestation?
Answer 11: Seeing squirrels on your property or hearing them in your attic are good indicators that you have an infestation.
How do I get rid of a squirrel in my house?
Answer 12: Trapping and removing the squirrel is the best method.
What are some of the diseases that squirrels can carry?
Answer 13: Some of the diseases that squirrels can carry include rabies typhus and tularemia.
What is the best time of year to get rid of squirrels?
Answer 14: The best time of year to get rid of squirrels is in the late fall or early winter when their food sources are scarce.
What are some of the methods for getting rid of squirrels?
Answer 15: Some of the methods for getting rid of squirrels include trapping and removing them using squirrel-resistant products and sealing up entry points.
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.
