Managing Belding's Ground Squirrel
IdentificationManagement of Belding’s ground squirrels often differs from that of the California ground squirrel. Many rodenticide products are not registered for use against this species, and other management practices are not as effective against Belding’s ground squirrel, as compared to California ground squirrels.
Compare EfficiencySeveral factors influence the efficiency of a control method. Management plans should incorporate site-specific variables such as, labor, and potential restrictions (e.g. proximity to structures, risks to non-targets, restricted use materials, etc).
Timing: Why it MattersThe success of many control methods depends on the season. For example, trapping is ineffective if the squirrels are currently hibernating.
Compound 1080Historically, Belding’s ground squirrels were effectively controlled through the use of Compound 1080-treated cabbage. However, Compound 1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate) was deregistered in 1990 due to concerns over risks to nontarget species, and this product is no longer available for rodent control in the United States.
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