Ground squirrel control works through a combination of trapping, baiting, and removing the food and cover they need. Ground squirrels live in colonies and dig extensive burrows, so a single method rarely solves the problem. Here is the integrated approach that actually works.
- Ground squirrels live in colonies, so control the whole colony, not one animal.
- Trapping is the most reliable removal method.
- Remove food and cover so the yard is less attractive.
- Poison works but carries a secondary poisoning risk.
Identify the Problem First
Ground squirrels are not tree squirrels. They dig burrows with open entrances, feed on the ground, and live in colonies. Confirm you are dealing with ground squirrels and not moles, voles, or gophers, since the control methods differ.
Ground squirrel signs include open burrow entrances, chewed plants at ground level, and multiple animals active during the day.
Trapping
Trapping is the most reliable ground squirrel removal method. Use box or tube traps placed near active burrow entrances, baited with nuts, oats, or peanut butter.
Place traps near active burrows. Ground squirrels use the same routes, so trap where they travel, not randomly.
Check traps daily. Most states require checking live traps daily, and a trapped animal needs prompt handling.
Baiting
Bait with poison reduces a colony quickly, but it carries a secondary poisoning risk to pets and predators. Use bait only in a tamper-resistant bait station and follow the label strictly.
Use a bait station. Loose poison can be eaten by pets, birds, and non-target animals. A bait station limits access to ground squirrels.
Removing Food and Cover
Ground squirrels are drawn by food and cover. Remove fallen fruit, spilled bird seed, and dense ground cover. Mowing tall grass and removing brush piles makes the yard less attractive.
Remove bird feeders or make them squirrel-proof. Spilled seed is a major ground squirrel attractant.
Exclusion
Fencing can exclude ground squirrels from gardens and small areas. Use a wire mesh fence buried deep, since ground squirrels dig. Exclusion works best for protecting a specific garden, not a whole yard.
When to Call a Professional
A large colony with extensive burrowing is hard to control alone. A wildlife removal professional can assess the colony, trap effectively, and handle the animals legally. For a big infestation, professional help is the faster and safer route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trap the colony near active burrows, remove food and cover, and use bait only in a tamper-resistant station. For a large colony, hire a professional.
Yes, box and tube traps placed near active burrow entrances are the most reliable method. Bait with nuts, oats, or peanut butter.
It carries a secondary poisoning risk to pets and predators. Use bait only in a tamper-resistant bait station and follow the label strictly.
Fallen fruit, spilled bird seed, and dense ground cover attract them. Removing food and cover makes the yard less inviting.
Yes, a buried wire mesh fence can exclude them from a garden, but it is hard to fence a whole yard, since ground squirrels dig.
