Squirrels are common backyard visitors, and their digging activity is a frequent observation. This fundamental behavior is deeply ingrained in their natural instincts.
Why Squirrels Dig
Squirrels primarily dig as part of a food storage strategy known as scatter hoarding. This involves burying individual food items, such as nuts and seeds, in numerous shallow caches across their territory. This creates a dispersed food reserve, important for sustenance during colder months. They rely on a combination of spatial memory and their keen sense of smell to locate these hidden treasures later.
Beyond storing food, squirrels also dig extensively while foraging. Their sensitive noses can detect buried nuts, seeds, insects, or fungi even beneath layers of soil or snow. Occasionally, squirrels may dig shallow holes to create temporary shelters, seeking refuge from predators or adverse weather conditions.
Common Places Squirrels Dig
Squirrels frequently target gardens. The soft, loose soil in these areas makes it easy for them to bury and retrieve food. They are often attracted by the presence of bulbs, recently planted seeds, or other potential food sources. Lawns are another common site, marked by small, coin-sized holes where squirrels have cached nuts and seeds.
Potted plants are particularly appealing to squirrels due to their loose potting soil. This makes containers an ideal location for burying their food stashes. The proximity of trees also influences their digging locations, as trees provide both a source of nuts and a quick escape route to safety.
Managing Squirrel Digging
Implementing physical barriers can effectively deter squirrels from digging in specific areas. Covering garden beds or individual plants with wire mesh, chicken wire, or hardware cloth creates an obstacle they cannot easily penetrate. For greater effectiveness, burying these barriers 6 to 12 inches deep and bending them outward can prevent squirrels from burrowing underneath. Covering the soil surface with materials like hard mulch, rocks, or gravel also makes digging less appealing.
Scents and tastes squirrels dislike can also deter digging. Natural repellents like peppermint oil, garlic, and chili pepper can be sprayed or sprinkled. Reapplication is often needed, especially after rain. Planting squirrel-resistant varieties such as daffodils, alliums, or marigolds makes areas less attractive. Removing accessible food sources and securing trash cans reduces their digging incentive.