We have squirrels rampaging our large, beautiful Japanese Maple.
by
Bonnie B
+11
They are ripping off the small, leafy branches -- presumably looking for some sort of epicurian delight. Does any one have any idea what's going on and, perhaps, how to curtail this disastrous mess? Some one mentioned a BB gun --- but --- I don't have the heart to kill/hurt them.
14 answers
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garden hose with a High pressure spray...less lethal...and a good deterrent. They may be gathering nesting materials for the winter...not much caloric content in branches....all you need to do is make the neighbors trees more desirable.
KMS Woodworks
on Aug 29, 2011
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Bonnie, you must have a haven in your Maple tree for your squirrel friends. I dont believe in killing them either. I suggest you call the wildlife sanctuary in your county and they might be able to trap them and relocate them. It will only be temporary because more squirrels will find your tree. Good Luck.
Garden Rebel / Sims Landscaping, Co.
on Aug 29, 2011
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Gees ~~~ ! Thanks for such quick responses ~~ ! Two great ideas and I will try employing both of them. I have a flickering idea that our local wildlife sanctuary isn't well-funded (not due to my lack of donations) enough to trap for me BUT they might lend out cages. Thanks!, once again, guys -- it's early here in California but, after I get "beautified", I am going to set up the hose (we live on a golf course -- so, "make-up" is a must-do ~~ !)
Bonnie B
on Aug 29, 2011
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Thanks for the answers, but I'm still hoping for more ideas.
Bonnie B
on Aug 29, 2011
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Bonnie, here is a link that may be useful for you. I have put down red chili pepper flakes to deter chipmunks and squirrels but everytime it rains you need to reapply. http://giantveggiegardener.com/2011/08/16/deterring-squirrels-from-eating-your-garden/
Erica Glasener
on Aug 29, 2011
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If you do the trapping yourself, use sunflower seed for bait. Set the trap out at dusk and check it the next morning...they are active at dawn. Keep an old towel handy to put over the trap as you approach it, to keep the animal calm.
Walter Reeves
on Aug 29, 2011
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Erica: Thank-you for your interesting response -- BUT -- we have many other large trees and the litte "devils" are like little monkeys and jump from tree to tree. So, unfortunately, putting anything on the "ground" wouldn't work. Additionally, we have multiple dogs/cats and I worry that they might get a dose of chili pepper -- probably not a good thing.... BUT....thanks anyway!
Bonnie B
on Aug 29, 2011
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Bonnie, sounds like you may have to try the trapping as Walter and others suggest, good luck.
Erica Glasener
on Aug 30, 2011
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Have you given the little buggers their "bath" yet?
KMS Woodworks
on Aug 30, 2011
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Take a look at this link- some pretty good information for you http://gardendecorativeitems.com/blog/how-to-attract-or-deter-backyard-squirrels/533/ fascinating facts about squirrels
360 Sod (Donna Dixson)
on Aug 30, 2011
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Thanks for the answers, but I'm still hoping for more ideas. It's early in the game so I look forward to as many ideas as possible. Perhaps a "blending" of more than one idea might get these cute, little critters looking for a new home base soon.
Bonnie B
on Aug 31, 2011
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You could try buying a falcon or hawk. It would certainly "deter" them.
Dan's of Central Florida, Inc.
on Aug 31, 2011
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HA ~~ ! You've got to be kidding me. A.) The hawk would probably carry away our little dog before he'd even look at a squirrel -- "meatier" you know.... (chuckle..) B.) Falcon's scare me -- they are beautiful but WOW! those beaks and claws. C.) It's not a neighorly thing to do. You must be quite the outdoors man.
Bonnie B
on Aug 31, 2011
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If all else fails they make a tasty stew!
Mike E
on Sep 01, 2011
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