![]() ![]() Sleeping and eating are the main priorities for winter resting squirrels to survive. This helps them to become less active during the winter to save energy. Both of these behaviors are a type of dormancy for squirrels. Tree squirrel species will go into a period of winter rest. Ground squirrels are the only type of squirrel that will hibernate during winter. With all that prep you may be wondering do squirrels hibernate in the winter? You’ll see them sitting in trees, at bird feeders, and scurrying across your yard. If you are experiencing problems with squirrels or have questions, contact your nearest Masswildlife office.Squirrels are everywhere in the autumn. They are classified as game species, for which regulated hunting seasons and management programs have been established. Squirrels are an important natural resource in Massachusetts. This method may be most effective when targeting a few persistent animals. 22 caliber rifle or a shotgun with #6 shot or smaller is suitable. Shooting is quick, simple, and effective in areas where firearm discharge is safe and legal. Any trapped animal must either be relocated on the premises (within the property) or destroyed humanely it is illegal to transport and release wildlife to another location. Traps may be effective in removing squirrels within an attic or other confined space. Spilled seed attracts mice and squirrels to the ground below the feeder predators may then be attracted to the rodents. Keep bird feeder areas cleanīird feeders on poles may be protected with commercial conical squirrel guards that prevent a climbing squirrel from getting past the cone. It is illegal to use poisons to eliminate wildlife, even if the animals are in a dwelling or other building. Squirrels may only be sickened and dead squirrels may cause secondary poisoning of raptors, domestic pets, and other scavengers. Do not use D-Con® or other similar products as these are formulated for and are legal only for use on rats and mice inside buildings. Commercial taste repellents (e.g., Ro-pel® or other similar products) can be applied to seeds, bulbs, flowers, shrubs, fences, and siding to discourage squirrels. Mothballs may sometimes discourage squirrels from using crawl spaces or other enclosed spaces, but do not use mothballs in human-occupied dwellings. Trim branches and trees within 6–8 feet of the building to prevent squirrels from jumping onto your roof. Be careful not to block squirrels inside as they may do considerable damage trying to get out. Close openings with heavy-gauge ½-inch wire mesh or hardware cloth. Squirrels can enter attics, crawl spaces, or sheds for nesting or shelter and may damage the structure, pull apart insulation, or chew electrical wires. A small dome or cage of chicken wire placed over individual plants or small rows can protect plants until they get large enough to be uninteresting to the squirrels. Tips for residentsĮlectrified netting or other small electric fences may be useful in keeping squirrels out of gardens and small orchards. Squirrels live in the habitats that contain their preferred foods. In suburban areas, they are often found in small pine plantations or woodlots interspersed with some hardwoods. Red squirrels are found primarily in mature coniferous forests, typically pine, spruce, or balsam fir forests. They are also typically found in extensive mature hardwood forests, especially oak-hickory forests, often with dense understory vegetation. Gray squirrels are tolerant of human presence and often live in urban or suburban areas with large, mature shade trees. They are territorial and defend their areas against other red squirrels. ![]() Juveniles establish home ranges on, or adjacent to, that of their mother. During severe winter weather, they may remain inactive in their nests. ![]() ![]() Red squirrels are active during the day but may rest during periods of intense midday heat. They are not territorial, but may defend the immediate area around a nest site. They may be especially active in fall when nuts are abundant. Gray squirrels are best described as crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) in spring, summer, and fall but are active only during midday in winter. ![]()
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