Q: Here in the high desert, we have a huge problem with ground squirrels. What do you suggest? A: Ground squirrels (also known as “Rats with Bushy Tails”) can be found throughout California and Northern Baja, as well as many parts of Oregon and Washington. They prefer open grassy areas and live in burrows that are approximately 4 inches in diameter and 5-30 feet long. The burrows are usually 2-5 feet deep, but can be found up to 6 feet deep in some cases. Ground squirrels are active only during the day. They are inactive (or less active) during the winter and for a few weeks during the hottest part of the summer. These destructive pests will gnaw the bark off of trees, often girdling and killing them. They can destroy plastic irrigation equipment and will devour fruit and nut crops. They have a less-than-endearing habit of taking a single bite out of every fruit on a tree, leaving the spoiled crop on the ground. They also carry bubonic plague, which can be transmitted to humans via flea bite. Control methods vary depending on the time of year. During the summer months when they are most active, trapping is effective where their population is low to moderate. A Conibear trap set outside an active burrow entrance is most effective. Take care to ensure that children and other non-target animals can’t reach the trap, and spring all traps before nightfall so non-target nocturnal animals such as the kit fox are not trapped. Anchor the trap so scavengers don’t carry it away. Burrow fumigation is another effective control method, especially during the spring when the ground is relatively moist. It’s important to ensure that the burrow you are fumigating is actually occupied by ground squirrels. Many other animals, such as burrowing owls, utilize abandoned burrows. Scrupulously follow package instructions when using gas fumigation canisters. Toxic bait may be used, especially when squirrel population is high. First generation anticoagulant poison such as diphacinone is minimally hazardous to wildlife and other non-target species when properly used. Place bait inside a bait station to limit access, and only use bait labelled for use against ground squirrels. Other methods that have been tried, but proven less than effective include shooting, which is illegal in densely populated areas and expensive due to the cost of ammunition. Sonic devices may annoy squirrels, but they will not drive them away. Dogs, especially Jack Russell and Rat Terriers, are enthusiastic squirrel hunters and can keep a contained area rodent-free, but they are ineffective for large open areas. Use of subterranean explosives in ground squirrel control may be emotionally gratifying and tremendously entertaining, but not recommended for homeowners unfamiliar with ordnance use and disposal. For more information on ground squirrel control that won’t attract the attention of the ATF, look up the UC Ground Squirrel Best Management Practices at groundsquirrelbmp.com. Have gardening questions? Email firstname.lastname@example.org. Looking for more gardening tips? Here’s how to contact the Master Gardener program in your area. Los Angeles CountySan Bernardino County