Now, doesn't this little critter look cute? For those uninitiated in the War On Squirrels, please allow me to enlighten you--
THEY'RE RATS!
A population explosion of furry tree rodents can't be far behind the bumper crop of acorns. Squirrels are a plague of another kind: the kind which will run off the winter birds by destroying the feeders, yank up bulbs, and snack out of the dog bowl-- in broad daylight, no less! while my back is turned.
I've tried garlic, Zoo Doo-Doo, human hair, various urine mixes (really), and deer repellants with no effect whatsoever on the squirrels, The effects on this author's shoes-- and sensibilites-- are another matter. However, red cayenne pepper seems to upset the arboreal rodents. At least for a while.
The pepper will deter them... until it rains. Buying this hot pepper in bulk helps,
(the handy 200-ounce size will do nicely) but you must be diligent with the application, mixing the pepper several inches into the soil to discourage diggers. Add it liberally to your bird seed as well. Birds actually seem to like this stuff, and since they have no sense of smell, it doesn't hurt them.
Moth balls work until the critters wise up and pitch them aside.
I had NO idea what I was getting into in the pro vs. anti-squirrel debate until I researched this article. Geez! Get a grip, folks!
There are some very clever sites for those who would like to see squirrels eliminated--here's their t-shirt for you---
and their web site:
http://www.deadsquirrel.com/links.html
And another silly site: http://www.outwittingsquirrels.com/squir...
And, for the pro -squirrel contingent: http://members.tripod.com/srl2/
or, join this one if you are so inclined: http://members.aol.com/~sqrllovers/
Dear reader, do try to remember, I'm only the messenger.
I just want to garden in peace.
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