Prevention Against Squirrel Damage

Our Own Rehabilitator Suggestions

A number of rehabilitators have recently shared their prevention tips against squirrel damage, which include:

• Place a motion detector that makes a noise, next to the area you are trying to protect. Inexpensive ones (roosters, etc.) are marketed as toys or novelty gifts.
• Use a layer of dog hair (from dog groomers), or the contents of your vacuum cleaner bag, spread over the surface after planting. Mulch it to look as undisturbed as possible, rather than freshly planted. Pine cones pressed down in the dirt around plants tend to discourage squirrels. Blood meal (fertilizer) is also a deterrent to small mammals, but may actually attract larger carnivores. Garlic powder works also, but must also be replaced frequently.
• Close or cover garbage cans, and if possible, make them inaccessible. If you have a barbecue near the house, keep it clean and covered. Squirrels have been known to eat the drippings, and sometimes build a nest if they can get inside.
• Use mothballs (can work temporarily). A determined squirrel will get used to the smell, or simply push it out of the way. Try wrapping them in a piece of metal screening to form a bag, then tie the bag to a solid object. Replace the contents every few days to maintain effectiveness.
• Plant your bulbs as deep as possible within their germination limits. Figure out what they like and don't like, and use the less desirable plants. Try Bitter Apple spray on the leaves. Or, plant a little extra for the squirrels.
• Stay away from products that use hot peppers. The theory is that they will keep squirrels away, but in reality, if a squirrel is hungry enough it will get into it. The peppers can be transmitted to the eyes and cause pain and blindness.

Prevention Recommendations from the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies

This site has excellent information on skunks, raccoons, rats, and mice, too.