I have received numerous calls from people concerned about squirrel damage during May. The first question is “What Can I do to get rid of these squirrels?” This is generally followed by a description of the damage they have caused or the anticipated harvest they stole. I can personally relate to their frustration, as I too have experienced loss to crafty squirrels.
Going back to the original question, there is no pesticide labeled for controlling squirrels. Remembering the food chain, a dead squirrel can be very appealing to someone’s dog or wild animals. If a dog eats a poisoned squirrel, the poison is passed on resulting in the death of the dog. Not a situation anyone wants. I also go on to say there are no effective repellants for squirrels. So, no chemical control recommendations for squirrels.
One way to reduce the negative impacts of a heavy squirrel infestation is install a physical barrier. Try b
uilding a fence using 1-inch mesh wire around gardens and high value plants. The fence should be at least 30 inches high and extend 6 inches below the ground with an additional 6 inches bent outward (at 90 degrees) to discourage burrowing. This will need to be accompanied by an electric fence with at least two strands of electrified wire. This will require an electric fence charger. The first strand of electrified wire should be placed 2 to 6 inches above the ground. The second strand should be at the same height as the top of the 1-inch mesh fence. The electrified strands should be places on the exterior of the mesh fence, about 3 inches away from the mesh.
For additional questions, please contact
Troy
at 336-242-2081.
