problem solver
Squirrels
IDENTIFICATION — You’ll find squirrels most anywhere there are trees to climb and food to eat. They often build their nests in high branches, hollow tree cavities or in buildings. They’re cute and their antics are fun to watch, but their eating, stealing and digging are just a few of the problems squirrels cause.
Squirrels eat mostly nuts, seeds and berries, but are known to eat almost any other vegetation as well as an occasional egg or even small birds. Their curiosity and appetite lead them into many destructive situations.
CONTROL — Metal baffles on bird feeder poles are helpful at protecting birdseed. Try adding hot pepper sauces like Cole’s Flaming Squirrel Seed Sauce, at right, to the birdseed. Squirrels don’t like the taste, but birds are not affected. Or give squirrels their own feeder with seeds, grain and nuts to help keep them away from your bird feeders.
Seal any areas where they could enter your home. Lay wire mesh over planted areas to prevent digging. And if you store birdseed outdoors, keep it in a metal container to prevent squirrels from gnawing into it.
