Ground Squirrels

The diet of ground squirrels is predominantly herbivorous, consisting of seeds, nuts, fruits, and green vegetation. They are also known to eat insects and occasionally small rodents, showcasing their opportunistic feeding habits. Ground squirrels’ foraging can lead to significant agricultural damage and conflicts with humans, especially in areas where their natural predators are scarce. Implementing control measures and habitat management can help mitigate the impact of ground squirrels on crops and gardens.

Ground squirrel scat is typically small, oblong, and found in clusters near the entrances to their burrows or feeding sites. The presence of ground squirrel droppings can indicate an active or nearby colony, which could signify the need for monitoring or control measures to prevent damage to crops, gardens, and landscapes. Identifying and managing ground squirrel scat is important for maintaining a healthy balance between these rodents and human activities.

Tracks of ground squirrels are characterized by small footprints with four toes on the front and five on the back, similar to other small rodents. However, their activity patterns and the locations where their tracks are found—such as near burrow entrances or in open fields—can help distinguish them. Tracking ground squirrel movements can aid in understanding their population density and the extent of their burrowing activities, which is crucial for effective management and control.