For small populations of ground squirrels and/or in urban areas or yards, trapping may be an effective tool to control ground squirrels. Small wire-mesh live traps, rat traps or Conibear #110 body traps are easy ways to catch ground squirrels. Live traps can usually be purchased though garden supply, sporting goods, or feed stores. Traps baited with sunflower seeds, oatmeal, grain and/or peanut butter are effective. Oatmeal rolled in peanut butter is effective bait. Pre-baiting live traps for several days with the door propped open will get the squirrels used to coming into the trap. Rat traps may be placed down in burrows and conibear traps over the burrow entrance and may not need to be baited.

A simple live trap can be made using a 12″ by 20″ piece of ½″ mesh hardware cloth. Bend the hardware cloth to form the rectangular body of the trap with 3″ openings on either end. Secure the free edges with hog rings or wire. Cover one of the open ends with a 3″ square piece of hardware cloth. Make a trap door at the opposite end by using a 2¾″ by 8″ piece of hardware cloth. Attach this piece to the top of the trap, recessed about ½″, and make sure it can swing freely (Cooperative Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska). The one-way door allows squirrels to enter but not exit.

For small populations of ground squirrels shooting may also be an option. It is illegal and unsafe to discharge firearms within many cities, but it may be legal if done with air rifles or pellet guns. Check your local ordinances and decide if it would be not only legal but safe within your area. Shooting is time-consuming and squirrels quickly become gun-shy.