Welcome to a closer look at our furry neighbors in Los Angeles! At Animal Capture Wildlife Control, we understand that living alongside wildlife can bring unique challenges and intriguing encounters, especially with squirrels. In our bustling city, both tree and ground squirrels find ways to thrive, but they can also cause concerns for homeowners and businesses. Let’s explore the distinct characteristics and behaviors of these creatures, providing you with the knowledge you need to manage their presence effectively.
Understanding Squirrels in Los Angeles
What Are Tree Squirrels?
Tree squirrels are perhaps what most people envision when they think of squirrels. These agile animals have bushy tails and are primarily arboreal, meaning they live in trees. In Los Angeles, the most common species you’ll encounter is the Western Gray Squirrel.
- Physical Characteristics: Tree squirrels typically sport a gray or brown coat and measure about 18 to 24 inches in length, including their iconic bushy tail.
- Habitat: They prefer wooded areas but are adaptable and can often be found in urban parks and neighborhoods with mature trees.
- Behavior: Tree squirrels are active during the day. They primarily feed on nuts, seeds, and occasionally small insects. They are known for their curious and sometimes cheeky behavior, especially when it comes to raiding bird feeders or gardens.
What Are Ground Squirrels?
Ground squirrels, on the other hand, are less seen climbing trees and more often found on the ground. They have a more varied color palette that blends into their earthy habitat, and they’re known for their burrowing activities.
- Physical Characteristics: These squirrels are smaller, usually about 12 to 18 inches long. Their coats can be gray, brown, or tan, featuring a pattern that helps them camouflage with the soil.
- Habitat: Ground squirrels live in burrows that they dig in open fields, pastures, and along roadways, which can extend several feet underground.
- Behavior: Unlike tree squirrels, ground squirrels hibernate during the winter. They gather food in warmer months to last through their dormancy period. Their diet includes seeds, nuts, fruits, and on occasion, they can also munch on small insects or caterpillars.
Comparing Tree and Ground Squirrels
While both types of squirrels can be a spectacle to observe, their presence is not without problems. Here are some impacts and behavioral differences:
- Environmental Impact: Tree squirrels can damage trees by stripping bark and clipping twigs, whereas ground squirrels can cause significant harm to gardens and landscaping as they burrow and eat plant roots.
- Health Risks: Both types can carry diseases, such as rabies and tularemia, although it’s rare. Their droppings and dander can also exacerbate allergies and asthma.
- Behavioral Differences: Tree squirrels are more likely to interact with humans, often seen begging for food in parks, while ground squirrels are generally shyer and keep to themselves.
Managing Squirrel Populations
Prevention Tips
Maintaining a squirrel-free property can be challenging but achievable with the right strategies:
- Securing Food Sources: Ensure that pet food is not left outside and bird feeders are squirrel-proof.
- Habitat Modification: Trim tree branches away from your house to limit access, and consider installing barriers to prevent ground squirrels from burrowing near property foundations.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice signs of infestation, such as frequent squirrel sightings, damaged plants, or holes in your yard, it might be time to call in the experts. Professional wildlife control is necessary to remove squirrels humanely and prevent future invasions effectively.
Animal Capture Wildlife Control: Your Partner in Wildlife Management
At Animal Capture Wildlife Control, we specialize in humane wildlife control solutions tailored to Los Angeles’s unique ecosystem. Whether you’re dealing with invasive tree squirrels or burrowing ground squirrels, our team is here to help restore peace to your property.
Peaceful Coexistence
Understanding the differences between tree squirrels and ground squirrels is key to effective management. These creatures, while part of our city’s natural charm, require careful and considerate approaches to control their impact on our daily lives. Are squirrels causing a stir in your neighborhood? Don’t let the situation get out of hand! Contact Animal Capture Wildlife Control today, and let our experts provide the solutions you need for a peaceful coexistence with local wildlife.