When the snow melts, ground squirrels pop up like they’re late for a meeting. If you’ve noticed more squirrel activity around your lawn or garden lately, you’re not imagining things. At Poulin’s Pest Control, we know all too well that spring marks the official kickoff of ground squirrel season, thanks to moisture, warmth, and an all-you-can-eat buffet of fresh vegetation.
Understanding Ground Squirrels
Often mistaken for prairie dogs and pocket gophers, the most common ground squirrels found in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba are the Richardson’s ground squirrels, Thirteen-Lined ground squirrels, and chipmunks.
Ground squirrels are diurnal (active during the day), omnivorous rodents. The Richardson’s ground squirrels and Thirteen-Lined ground squirrels thrive in environments with short grass they can see over and chipmunks prefer living near trees and forests. The spring period is crucial for their survival, as they are hungry after a long winter, and this makes it one of the best times to control ground squirrels.
The Role of Moisture
Moisture plays a significant role. As the soil thaws, it becomes easier for squirrels to dig and maintain their burrows. Moisture also enhances plant growth, providing a food source during this time. Ground squirrels in the wild rely on food for hydration. This reliance on moisture-rich environments makes areas with well-watered lawns and gardens particularly attractive to them.
The Impact of Warmth
Early in the year when the temperatures rise, ground squirrels become active and spend time foraging. This increased activity is essential for their survival, as they must consume large amounts of food to prepare for the next hibernation period. Extreme heat can be detrimental and some species aestivate (go dormant) during the hottest summer months to conserve energy and avoid dehydration.
Food Sources: The Final Piece of the Triangle
Ground squirrels are opportunistic omnivores and eat seeds, grasses, weeds, bugs, carrion, and small animals. The availability of food sources affects their activity patterns. It is best to control ground squirrels before the plants grow and give them plenty of options for food.
Managing Ground Squirrel Infestations
Here are some strategies for homeowners and property managers to manage ground squirrel infestations:
Whether you’re a homeowner seeking to protect your garden or a commercial client managing a larger property, our team provides humane and effective solutions that ensure your property remains safe and pest-free. Contact Poulin’s Pest Control to help you keep your property protected and pest-free.