Squirrel Deterrents

To prevent from climbing a certain tree place a metal band around the trunk at least 2 feet wide and 6-8” off the ground.  This will only work if there are not other trees in close proximity they can jump from.

Pepper based spray
1 quart warm water
2 Tbsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp Tabasco SauceTM
Mix together and allow standing and cooling for a few hours.  Spray onto decorative plants to discourage chewing.

Sprinkling blood meal in and around your garden can help keep squirrels away.

If squirrels are visiting or disturbing your bird feeder the most effective solution is to feed the squirrels away from your bird feeder.  Unfortunately animals can not understand that the food you are placing in your yard is not meant for them.  This way the squirrels will be satisfied and have no need to go to the bird feeder.  There are also commercially available “squirrel proof” bird feeders, however it does seem like it’s always a matter of time until the squirrels figure out how to get to the feed.

We strongly discourage live trapping for the following reasons:

1. It is futile. Studies have found that an area or habitat will hold a limited number (carrying capacity) of any one species of animal. It will hold no more than that because the over-abundant population is reduced by food scarcity and predators. But the fact that is even more significant is that the area or habitat will also hold no fewer than the established number. So, by live trapping and taking some animals from the area other animals of that species will move in.
2. Live trapping frequently results in the death of a trapped and relocated animal due to the stress and trauma of the situation, carrying capacity of habitat introduced to, resident animals defending their territory, and food scarcity. Also, another special concern is the spread of disease by unnaturally relocating animals.  Add to that death count the fact that the trapped animal may be a lactating female who leaves behind babies to the painful death of starvation and dehydration.
3. We have seen an increase in animals that injure themselves frantically trying to escape live traps.  This injury is not the intent of the trapper and often that animal then needs medical attention, rehabilitative care and occasionally surgery to repair the injury.