While squirrels are often considered "cute" rodents, they can be just as harmful to your property as rats or mice. Over the years, these animals have become bold around humans and can be coaxed to eat out of a person's hand (this is not recommended). However, while their fluffy tails and alluring eyes can make them seem like an attractive neighbor, creating incentives for them to return to your yard, such as leaving out pet food and a messy birdfeeder, can lead to bigger risks.

Five types have a significant population in California. The Eastern Gray, Fox, Western Gray, Douglas, and California Ground Squirrel dominate the state. Fox Squirrels are slowly growing as the primary species over Westerns. They're most active during the day, and while they mainly eat nuts, fruits, and vegetables, their diet can also consist of small insects.

Squirrels are adaptable creatures. Not only are they acrobatic, but they have evolved to be very cunning. Did you know that these rodents pretend to hide their food to throw off potential thieves? They'll go through the process of finding a spot to dig, then filling in the hole without actually leaving anything in it. This is because they'll lose about 25% of their stock to other squirrels and birds that dig up the tasty storage.

These furry creatures can significantly damage your property and increase health risks with the pests and diseases they can carry. Squirrels can bring smaller pests like mites, fleas, and ticks into your home or business, which can lead to an even bigger infestation problem. The ectoparasites can spread diseases through their bites to you and your pets. It is a recipe for disaster when you add that to the diseases these rodents carry, like tularemia, plague, and ringworm. When hungry, cold, or needing a safe place to nest, squirrels can find their way or make their way into your attic or basement. Continually passing over your roof can damage tiles or shingles, electrical wires, and other devices like solar panels or air vents. The fascia board supporting your roof and gutters is also a common target since it provides a secluded area for these animals to burrow into. 

In addition to property damage, they're a nuisance in gardens and yards. As herbivores, they're likely to tear up your vegetables and flower beds looking for food or nesting. California Ground Squirrels can wreak havoc on your yard if they decide your property is the perfect place to dig. These rodents create burrow systems to store food, nest, and stay warm. These miniature caves can dry out the roots of your foliage, damage irrigation systems, and create hazards for machinery and pedestrians.

Gold Country Wildlife Control's professionals use humane and effective methods when removing pests from your property. As Grass Valley, CA's top-rated wildlife removal service, we're dedicated to keeping our community informed and nuisance wildlife-free while taking care of the environment. Contact us today for an estimate or more information about our removal and exclusion programs.