AboutStephen Vantassel Expertise I was a professional animal damage controller. If you are having problems with squirrels, raccoons, beavers, moles, voles, etc. damaging your property, I can help give you information to resolve that damage. I was an assistant editor for Wildlife Control Technology magazine and have published numerous articles as well as two books in this field.
Experience former Assistant Editor of Wildlife Control Technology magazine, the nation's only exclusive professional magazine for animal damage controllers. I have published two books, the Wildlife Removal Handbook and the Wildlife Damage Inspection Handbook.
Question I live in Staunton, VA. We have a major squirrel problem! They dig up stuff like flower bulbs, tubers, and make holes all over the yard. The last time I planted daffodils they were dug up in less than 2 hours! Any suggestions?
Answer Your problem is a tough one as there is no "quick" solution. Essentially you have three options. first and one that you probably don't want to do is don't plant bulbs. Sorry, but had to state the obvious. Second option is to secure your bulbs with 1/4 inch hardware cloth buried in the ground at least 3 inches and extending over the bulb outside the ground. anchor the mesh to the soil using thin metal tent stakes. Longer stakes will be needed if you have loose soil (to prevent the squirrels from pulling off the mesh). Electric fencing can work too but I would have to refer you someone with more experience with that. Third option is to trap down the population. Winter is tough time for critters so they are obviously hungry. I don't recommend relocation as it is illegal in some states and it is actually pretty cruel. If legal, the better way would be to kill them. visit http://wildlifedamage.unl.edu for information on implementing squirrel control strategies.
Don't waste your time with silly ultrasonics and repellents. Ultrasound can't be heard and repellents probably won't work here as they seem to be too hungry.
