BURROW DESTRUCTION
Burrow destruction is generally used after another control method (such as poison baiting ) has been used. It helps to prevent the reinfestation of ground squirrels. In the long run, this may be one of the most cost efficient control methods you can practice.
| Time of Year | Efficacy | Cost of Materials | Labor | Restrictions | |
| Burrow Destruction |  |  |  |  |  |
HOW IT WORKS:
- Ground squirrels work hard on their burrows and do not readily give them up. They continue to improve their burrows through multiple years and generations, creating complex systems that can be anywhere from 3 to 30 feet long and 2 to 4 feet deep. It has been observed that when burrows are abandoned, new squirrels will reinfest the area and occupy the old burrows. By destroying the burrows, you will slow or prevent the reinfestation of ground squirrels.
- In an unpublished study conducted at UC Davis, it was found that of various methods of preventing reinfestation, ripping the burrows to a depth of 18 inches was a relitively effective method for reducing reinvasion into old burrows.
HOW TO USE IT:
- Use a ripping blade attached to a tractor. Drag the blade over the burrow entrances. You want to go at least 18 inches deep. Anything less than that does not seem to be nearly as effective. Rototilling and filling in with a shovel were not effective in preventing reinfestation because they are not deep enough and the squirrels will just dig new entrances.
SAFETY:
- Be sure to use proper safety procedures that you would when operating any farm equipment.
WHERE TO GET IT:
- You should be able to rent this equipment if you do not already have it.
LAWS AND REGULATIONS :
Kit fox pups
- Be aware of endangered species that inhabit ground squirrel burrows.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
- NA