Coming in all colors, sizes, looks and shapes, pests can vary from grotesque to even adorable to some. However, pests are labeled because of their ability to destroy property or structure damage, are a health concern and/or can be annoyance. Once pests make their way into your home or business, you need assistance as soon as possible. A Five Star Termite and Pest Control would like to discuss the fundamentals of ground squirrels today due to their problematic nature to the locals of San Antonio, TX.
Ground Squirrel Damage
Ground squirrels are small burrowers that live across the United States and are found throughout Texas as well. They can be a potential problem for any homeowner or commercial business owner, but especially so around farmlands since ground squirrels are heavily populated in these areas. Depending on location, the differences and similarities of habits and characteristics vary according to species. Being that that their diet includes plants and seeds, ground squirrels are notorious among farmers and avid gardeners. Ground squirrels infest crop fields and home gardens, and due to their burrowing habits, ground squirrels are more of a problem for farmers and gardeners. Usually, the ground squirrels’ need to constantly chew in order to control the length of their teeth which causes structural or cosmetic damage of a building or other property.
Does a Ground Squirrel Look Like a Chipmunk?
Often mistaken for one another, chipmunks and ground squirrels share similar features in appearance. Ground squirrels average length is 12 inches, and 5 ounces is the average weight. Often in shades of brown and gray, ground squirrels have spots or stripes running down their back. Ground squirrels also feature short bushy tails and small ears.
Where Do Ground Squirrels Live?
Ground squirrels have an attraction to loose soil like around the riverbanks as well as ponds for easy digging and they thrive in grassy areas like meadows and prairies. They congregate in the tall grasses and open spaces in suburban and rural areas. Though they tend to avoid urban areas, they may infest properties out of need and are more likely drawn to golf courses, grazing pastures, public parks, and lawns as they also avoid woodland areas. Though they prefer to avoid indoor infestations, they may squeeze through tiny cavities of vents, chimneys, torn door or window screens, broken or open windows, and other such openings in order to escape predators or extreme temperatures as well as when the food or water becomes scarce.
Squirrel Pest Inspections, Control, Removal & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
Ground squirrels are still pests, because they damage both cash crops and ornamental plants, however, the minor advantage is that they eat harmful insects. Damaged tree root and tree dehydration, issues with mowing the lawn, as well as structural and foundation damage can be the results of the abundant holes left behind from the ground squirrel’s burrowing habits. Additionally, these squirrels pose a health concern since they are known to be common hosts of parasitic ticks, lice, mites and fleas. You can minimize the risk of infestations by minimizing the hiding places by removing brush piles, keeping the grass well-maintained, and controlling the clutter. If there is an issue with ground squirrels on your San Antonio property, call A Five Star Termite and Pest Control and let our certified experts assist you.
