Spring Clean-Up & Beyond: Seasonal Tips for Ground Squirrel Control

As the days get longer and warmer, many of us turn our attention to spring cleaning and refreshing our outdoor spaces. But this is also a prime time for ground squirrels to emerge from dormancy and begin their annual activities. Implementing timely management strategies can make a significant difference in preventing widespread damage throughout the year.

Why Spring is Prime Time for Ground Squirrel Management:

Ground squirrels exhibit seasonal behaviors that influence the effectiveness of control methods. In spring, after winter hibernation (or reduced activity in milder climates):

• Emergence and Breeding: Squirrels become highly active, foraging for food, and most importantly, breeding begins. Eliminating squirrels at this stage reduces the number of young born later in the year, preventing future population explosions.
• Moist Soil for Fumigation: Spring often brings moist soil conditions, which are ideal for burrow fumigation methods. Moist soil helps seal gases within the burrow system, making the treatment more effective and safer.

Your Seasonal Ground Squirrel Management Calendar:

Here's a breakdown of effective strategies by season:

Spring (February-June):

• Burrow Fumigation (Most Effective Now!): Gas cartridges are readily available and work best in spring due to moist soil. Identify active burrows (fresh diggings, no cobwebs or leaves), insert the lit cartridge, and immediately seal the entrance. Remember: never use near buildings or in dry conditions due to fire hazards.
• Trapping: Begin trapping early in the season to catch adults before they reproduce. Baited kill traps (box or Conibear) are effective when placed near burrows or runways. Bait with walnuts, almonds, oats, or melon rinds.
• Habitat Modification: Start your spring clean-up by removing brush piles, old debris, and any other cover ground squirrels might use. This makes your property less inviting and easier to monitor.

Summer (July-August):

• Baiting (Professional Application Only): If you're a licensed pest management professional, this is a good time for toxic grain baits containing zinc phosphide, as squirrels switch to seeds, grains, and nuts as their primary food source. For homeowners, legal residential bait options are limited.
• Ongoing Trapping: Continue trapping as needed, especially if new squirrels appear.
• Monitor for Reinfestation: Even if you've had success, keep an eye out for new burrows, especially if you live adjacent to wildlands.

Fall (September-October):

• Food Storage Behavior: Ground squirrels are actively storing food for winter. This can make baiting very effective if you have access to legal options.
• Pre-Hibernation Trapping: Trapping before they go into their main hibernation period can significantly reduce populations for the following spring.
• Burrow Destruction (if applicable): On larger properties, deep ripping old burrows (to at least 20 inches) can discourage reinvasion by making them less desirable. Simply filling them with soil isn't enough, as squirrels can easily reopen them.

Winter (November-January):

• Reduced Activity: Most ground squirrels hibernate during winter, though some young may remain active in milder climates. Fumigation is not effective during this time, as squirrels plug their burrows.
• Planning Ahead: Use this time to assess your ground squirrel situation from the previous year and plan your strategies for the upcoming spring. Order supplies, research professional services, and get ready for proactive management.

Remember: Consistent monitoring and prompt action are crucial for effective ground squirrel management. Addressing a small problem early is always easier and more cost-effective than tackling a large, established population. By understanding their seasonal patterns, you can implement the right control methods at the right time and protect your property from these persistent pests.