Q&A - Squirrels are destroying my flowerbed
Question:
How can I keep squirrels from destroying my flowerbed?
Answer:
According to the UT Extension publication “Managing Nuisance Animals and Associated Damage Around the Home” the best way to control squirrels is through shooting where it is legal to do so. Squirrels can be trapped but it is often illegal to move a trapped animal and release it in another location because of disease concerns. Check with your local wildlife officials for local laws and regulations. There are non-lethal options like coyote urine (an ingredient in many deer repellents) and moth balls. These can be applied to or around garden plants but will need to be re-applied after rain and may lose effectiveness after the squirrels get used to it. Also a barking dog may keep them away.
Related Resources:
Managing Nuisance Animals and Associated Damage Around the Home
Gray Squirrel Biology & Management
Tree Squirrels
How can I keep squirrels from destroying my flowerbed?
Answer:
According to the UT Extension publication “Managing Nuisance Animals and Associated Damage Around the Home” the best way to control squirrels is through shooting where it is legal to do so. Squirrels can be trapped but it is often illegal to move a trapped animal and release it in another location because of disease concerns. Check with your local wildlife officials for local laws and regulations. There are non-lethal options like coyote urine (an ingredient in many deer repellents) and moth balls. These can be applied to or around garden plants but will need to be re-applied after rain and may lose effectiveness after the squirrels get used to it. Also a barking dog may keep them away.
Related Resources:
Managing Nuisance Animals and Associated Damage Around the Home
Gray Squirrel Biology & Management
Tree Squirrels
