Ground Squirrels

Ground Squirrel Identification

What are ground squirrels?

A small to medium-sized rodent, ground squirrels are a common lawn and garden pest living throughout our area of Pleasanton , Tracy , Roseville , CA and Surrounding Areas. Ground squirrels live together in groups between two and twenty. Ground squirrels have mottled light brown or grayish fur. From head to tail, they grow to between 14 and 20 inches in length. The tail is bushy but less so than the tree squirrel's tail. The ears of the ground squirrel stand up off of their heads.

Are ground squirrels dangerous?

Ground squirrels can be dangerous to both people and our property. The entrance and exit holes of ground squirrel burrows pose a trip-and-fall hazard. They are the perfect diameter for causing twisted or broken ankles. Ground squirrels can cause costly structural damage by burrowing under or next to foundations, sidewalks, walkways, and pools. These rodents feed on and damage lawns, ornamental plants, fruits, and vegetables. Ground squirrels carry fleas, ticks, and other parasites on their bodies that transmit diseases to people.

Why do I have a ground squirrel problem?

Ground squirrels dig new burrows in open grassland, gardens, orchards. They also like to burrow around building foundations, patios, pools, and decks, causing structural damage in the process. Any property offering a place for these rodents to burrow with easy access to food sources can become a home to ground squirrels.

Ground squirrels feed on grasses, plants, seeds, and nuts. They have no problem re-inhabiting old burrows, making them wider and longer each time they move into them.

Where will I find ground squirrels?

Ground squirrels are fairly easy to identify. You'll commonly see them foraging for food right outside of their underground burrows. The burrows are where ground squirrels sleep, raise their young, store food, and escape danger. Ground squirrels are most active during the day. They are active throughout most of the year but may become dormant during the coldest part of the year.

How do I get rid of ground squirrels?

If you are ready to get rid of ground squirrels from your property, reach out to the local pest control experts at Patriot Pest Management. Our customized services performed by our knowledgeable and friendly experts eliminate pests and stop them from coming back.

At Patriot Pest Management, we won’t hesitate to go the extra mile to ensure that our customers are happy, and their properties are free of pests. For exceptional home pest control or commercial pest control services in the Greater Bay Area and surrounding counties of California, contact Patriot Pest Management today!

How can I prevent ground squirrels in the future?

Below are some easy-to-follow tips to keep ground squirrels from taking over your home and yard:

Maintain compost piles and garden areas to limit food sources.
Place bird feeders at the perimeter of your property, not near your home.
Clean up leftover food from outdoor eating areas as soon as the meal is over.
Keep the grass cut short and reduce overgrown vegetation to limit spaces for ground squirrels to hide on your property.
Install underground metal fencing around sheds, foundations, and other places you don't want ground squirrels to burrow.
Fill in holes on your property and around the foundation of your home.