Ground Squirrels/Chipmunks
Ground squirrels often go by many names including marmots, chipmunks, or prairie dogs and live in colonies of interconnected burrow systems. Ground squirrels are brownish-gray rodents that are 9 to 11 inches long, not counting their bushy tail, which adds another 5-9" and they usually closely resemble tree squirrels.
Ground squirrels can invade residential areas and cause large amounts of destruction when burrowing and chewing. These pests burrow 2-3 feet under the ground and destroy carefully constructed landscaping, as well as chew through underground wires and other structural elements, such as sprinkler heads. They enjoy a wide variety of food, so no vegetable garden or appealing vegetation (incuding fruit & nut trees) is safe from ground squirrel populations. Beyond the physical damage, ground squirrels can transmit diseases that are very harmful to humans including (but not limited to) the bubonic plague
Quick Ground Squirrel Facts
- The average ground squirrel lives 3-4 years but can live up to 8 years
- Despite being able to climb, ground squirrels prefer burrowing, especially when startled
- Ground squirrels mate in the early spring following hibernation, and a typical litter can range from 5-8 babies
- Ground squirrels can transmit harmful diseases - Do not touch ground squirrels and be wary of pets that attempt to interact with them
By applying CO2 directly into burrows, entire populations of ground squirrels can be quickly and effectively removed. This method also removes the need for disposal after application
