Burrowing Rodents
Ground Squirrels
The ground squirrel is the most common type of squirrel found in southern California. It is has light brown, grayish fur and is roughly 18 inches long, head to tail.
Ground squirrels feed on trees, shrubs and vegetation. In heavily populated areas, ground squirrels have been known to steal food left outside by humans. In southern California, ground squirrels don’t hibernate for winter and are generally active all year long, though some may stay dormant for a small period of time.
Ground squirrels burrow in holes they scoop out themselves. In some cases, ground squirrels share the tunnel system with each other, but each squirrel will have its own entrance. Squirrels will also use existing holes to create their homes.
Ground squirrels will feed on ornamental plants, fruits and vegetables and so they are often considered garden pests. Squirrels can also spread disease and parasites. In some cases, squirrels can find their way to attic space and destroy insulation while they build their nests.
The best method to remove a squirrel population is to use exclusion. All holes in the yard or attic will need to be sealed. We recommend beginning a preventative maintenance program to keep them from returning. We use humane methods of trapping and removal. We also offer cleanup and restoration services if squirrels have damaged your property. For more information about our ground squirrel removal services, call us today.
Pocket Gophers
Pocket gophers are ground dwelling rodents, commonly found around California. They are brownish grey in color and store food in their cheek pockets. These animals build tunnel systems that can destroy yards and gardens.
Gophers burrow underground and build elaborate tunnel systems. Their presence is usually discovered when mounds appear in the soil around gardens and lawns. They feed on fruits, vegetables, plants, roots and grubs. Gophers use their cheek pockets to transport large amounts of food back to their burrow.
Gophers are generally solitary creatures that defend their burrow systems aggressively. During breeding season, however, males and females may share the nests if their tunnel systems neighbor each other.
Gophers damage lawns, forests, farms and gardens. A gopher’s tunnel system can destroy sprinkler systems, utility cables and structural foundations in a matter of weeks.
The best method to treat gophers is a combination of exclusion work and removal. We recommend beginning a preventative pest maintenance program to prevent gophers from returning. We offer bi-monthly, quarterly and one-time services. For more information about gopher removal, please call us today.