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Easiest and Safest Ground Squirrel Bait for Trapping Squirrels

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If you’re looking for effective ground squirrel bait because you are dealing with a ground squirrel infestation, it’s essential to take action right away. Not only are they destructive pests, but they can also carry diseases that can be harmful to both humans and pets. 

Ground squirrels can damage crop fields and vegetable gardens. Therefore, ground squirrel management is a must!

Ground Squirrel Bait

Where do Ground Squirrels live?

Ground squirrels are a species of rodents commonly found in North America. These burrowing rodents are typically brown or grey and have long tails.

Ground squirrels are found in a variety of habitats. However, they most commonly live in prairies, grasslands, and forests.

These animals build burrows underground where they live and raise their young. Burrows may be 4-5″ in diameter

Ground squirrels are essential ecosystem members and provide food for predators such as hawks and coyotes. They also help spread seeds and plant growth by burying them in the ground.

What do ground squirrels eat?

Ground squirrels are herbivores and eat various plants, depending on their location. In some areas, they primarily eat seeds and nuts. In other areas, they may eat more insects or even meat. They also eat berries and leaves. Ground squirrels typically have a diet of about 70-80% plant-based.

One of the ground squirrels’ favorite foods is to eat straight out of bird feeders. Ground squirrels feed on seeds. If you enjoy feeding birds but don’t want your seed to be eaten by squirrels, then you’ll need to get a squirrel-proof bird feeder to keep the squirrels out.

How do ground squirrels eat?

Ground squirrels typically eat their food while sitting on their hind legs. They will use their front paws to hold the food and their mouth to chew it. They may also carry food in their mouth to a safe place to eat it later.

How do you know if you have a ground squirrel problem?

You may have a ground squirrel problem if you hear strange noises in your yard or find evidence of small mammals burrowing underground.

These pests can be challenging to get rid of, but knowing the signs of an infestation will help you take the necessary steps to eliminate them.

How to get rid of ground squirrels

Signs of ground squirrel infestation

There are some clear signs that you have a ground squirrel infestation on your property. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • You will see the squirrels themselves, either scurrying around or popping up out of their burrows. If you see one ground squirrel, chances are he or she has a bunch of friends! If not dealt with swiftly, ground squirrel populations can expand rapidly.
  • You will see evidence of digging as the squirrels burrow underground to create their nests. Soil or small rocks may be moved, and you should see active burrow building.
  • You may notice damage to your property as the squirrels dig into gardens, lawns, and other areas.
  • Squirrels will eat your garden. If you have a vegetable garden and notice you are getting blooms but not vegetables, you could have a ground squirrel problem.
  • Squirrels often dig up plants and bulbs while looking for food. If you set out vegetable transplants and a few go missing, ground squirrels may be to blame. Squirrels will eat fruit off trees too.

How to get rid of ground squirrels

  • Fumigation is a very effective way to get rid of ground squirrels. Squirrels have a strong sense of smell and are sensitive to odors.
    • You can use a commercial product like toxic gas cartridges.
    • You can make your own fumigation solution. Mix one gallon of water with two cups of ammonia to make your own. Pour this mixture into a spray bottle and spray it where the ground squirrels live. The fumes will kill the squirrels.
    • Carbon monoxide poisoning – Use a small engine. Read details here.
  • Another way to get rid of ground squirrels is to use a live trap.
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  • You can also use an instant kill trap to get rid of ground squirrels. This trap is a small metal box with a spring-loaded door. When the squirrel steps on the plate in the middle of the box, the door snaps shut and kills the squirrel. You’ll need to have a plan to dispose of dead animals.
  • Using a pellet gun is another way to get rid of ground squirrels.
  • Poison is also a popular way to get rid of ground squirrels. Treated grain is highly effective. Several different types of poison are available, but be sure to read the label carefully and follow all instructions. Make sure you keep the poison out of reach of children and pets.
  • Water can also be used to get rid of ground squirrels. If you have a yard activity, you can install a sprinkler system that will randomly go off. The noise and movement will scare the squirrels away. You can also try spraying the squirrels with a hose or bucket of water.
  • Scare tactics can also be used to get rid of ground squirrels. You can place a fake owl, snake, or other predators in the area where the squirrels are living. The sight and sound of these objects will scare the squirrels away.
  • Destroy burrows by digging 12″ – 24″ down. Backfill the burrow with soil and tamp. Habitat modification is not very effective.
  • Cover burrows with a metal sheet is an old-fashioned way to eliminate ground squirrels. This method will not kill the squirrels but prevent them from entering the burrow. The cover should be in place before the squirrels start hibernating for winter.
  • Repellents can work but often only for a short period of time. Many types of repellents are on the market, including cayenne pepper, predator urine, garlic oil, etc.
  • If all else fails, you can always call licensed pest management professionals to get rid of the ground squirrels for you.
Trapping Squirrels

Trapping squirrels – how do ground squirrel traps work?

Ground squirrel traps use bait to lure ground squirrels into an enclosed area to be captured. The bait is typically a food item the squirrels are attracted to, such as nuts, seeds, or fruit.

There are many types of ground squirrel traps available for purchase, or you can make your own. All you need is a sturdy container with a lid, such as a metal trash can, and some bait.

What are the benefits of using a ground squirrel trap over other control methods, such as poison pellets?

There are several benefits to using a ground squirrel trap over other control methods.

  • First, traps are effective at capturing ground squirrels without causing any harm.
  • Second, they are easy to use – all you need to do is place the bait inside the trap and wait for the squirrels to arrive.
  • Finally, traps can be reused multiple times, making them a more cost-effective option than poison pellets.

Finally, traps are a safe way to get rid of ground squirrels without risking your family or pets. Using poison pellets can be dangerous if not done correctly, while traps are simple and easy to use.

What type of bait should I use in my ground squirrel trap?

Many different types of bait can be used in ground squirrel bait traps.

When choosing a bait for your ground squirrel trap, it’s essential to consider what the squirrels are already eating in your yard.

You’re likely to have better success if you can find a bait they are already attracted to. However, it’s also essential to keep an open mind and try different things since the squirrels may not be attracted to all baits.

Top 4 ground squirrel bait for traps

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best ground squirrel bait will vary depending on the location and climate. However, some popular baits for ground squirrel traps include:

  • Peanuts & Peanut butter – This is a common choice because ground squirrels love it! You can spread it on top of the bait station or mix it with other baits.
  • Sunflower Seeds / Seeds – Ground squirrels also love seeds, so this is an excellent choice for bait. You can either scatter the seeds around the bait station or put them in a container inside the station.
  • Chicken scratch – this is full of seeds, and ground squirrels love it!
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables are also a favorite food of ground squirrels, so they will likely go for them if offered. Try to choose fruits and vegetables in season since they will appeal more to squirrels.

If you have a vegetable garden squirrels are robbing, consider putting some of their everyday food favorites in the trap.

  • Grapes
  • Apple
  • Melons
  • Cucumbers
  • Tomatoes
How do you get rid of ground squirrels

What about commercial ground squirrel bait?

There are many different types of commercial bait available for purchase, but it’s important to choose a bait designed explicitly for ground squirrels. Some baits may be too strong or too weak and will not be effective in capturing the squirrels.

When using commercial ground squirrel bait, follow the directions on the package carefully to ensure that the bait is used correctly. Do not use more bait than recommended.

Ground squirrel bait for a trap – What NOT to use

There are also some things that you should not use as bait for ground squirrel bait stations. Some of the most common offenders include:

  • Poisonous baits can be dangerous for humans and pets, so they should be used cautiously.
  • Meat – This can attract other pests, such as rats or raccoons, and it can also spoil quickly.
  • Cheese – This is another food that can attract other pests.

How much does a typical ground squirrel trap cost, and where can it be purchased online or in stores?

A ground squirrel trap typically costs around $40-$80, but prices vary depending on the retailer. You can check the current price here

These traps can be purchased online from several stores or locally in stores that sell pest control supplies. 

It is vital to choose a trap made from a material that is resistant to weathering, such as metal or plastic, to ensure that the station lasts for an extended period of time.

What are some key features to look for when purchasing a ground squirrel trap?

When selecting a ground squirrel trap, it is crucial to consider the size of the opening and the number of entrances. Getting the right size trap will avoid trapping non-target animals.

The trap should also be easy to clean. Additionally, it is important to select a trap made from a durable material that can withstand outdoor conditions.

Do you want a repeating trap? With a repeating trap, you can catch multiple ground squirrels throughout the day. I highly recommend the Squirrelinator trap!

Things to consider before using ground squirrel traps

How do you know if a ground squirrel trap is right for you? What are the pros and cons?

Before using a trap to capture these burrowing rodent pests, there are a few things to consider. First, it is important to ensure that the trap is in an area where ground squirrels are present. Additionally, it is important to note that traps can be messy and require regular cleaning.

Home remedies to get rid of ground squirrels

How long will it take for the ground squirrel trap to be effective after it has been set up in the yard or garden area?

It typically takes a ground squirrel trap several days to be effective after it has been set up. Therefore, it is important to NOT check the trap regularly. Checking too often can scare squirrels.

Conclusion to best ground squirrel bait for traps

You can always reach out to your local County Agricultural Commissioner for advice on the target animals.

If you’re looking for the best bait to put in your ground squirrel trap, the proven baits listed above are sure to get those pesky critters coming out of their burrows.

Keep in mind that different areas will have different preferences, so it might take a little trial and error to find what works best where you live. Have fun with it, and happy ground squirrel hunting!

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