Pecan trees represent a significant investment, but the anticipated harvest is frequently lost to squirrels. These rodents rapidly deplete a pecan crop by burying nuts or consuming them directly from the branch. Protecting your investment requires layered strategies that limit access to the tree and nuts. The most effective approach combines physical exclusion, sensory deterrents, and, when necessary, active removal.
Blocking Access with Physical Barriers
Preventing squirrels from climbing the tree trunk is the most reliable method of crop protection. This is accomplished using a specialized barrier, often called a baffle or collar, wrapped around the trunk. The baffle should be constructed from slick, wide sheet metal or aluminum flashing, measuring at least 18 to 24 inches wide.
Install the barrier so the bottom edge sits five to six feet off the ground, a height that exceeds the squirrel’s vertical jumping capability. The metal must be installed loosely enough to allow for the tree’s future growth without girdling the trunk. The slick, curved surface prevents the animals from climbing past the obstruction.
Trunk barriers are ineffective if squirrels can bypass them by jumping from nearby structures or other trees. Carefully prune all limbs that extend within six to eight feet of any roofline, fence, power line, or adjacent tree canopy. This clearance forces the squirrel to use the trunk as its only access point, blocked by the baffle. For very small pecan trees or isolated branches, fine-mesh exclusion netting can offer temporary protection.
Using Taste and Scent Repellents
Repellents discourage squirrels through unpleasant sensory experiences rather than physical blockage. Capsaicin-based sprays, derived from hot peppers, are a common choice because the compound acts as an irritant to mammals. These sprays do not harm the squirrels but cause discomfort when they attempt to taste the treated nuts or foliage.
These methods demand consistent maintenance, as weather easily reduces their effectiveness. Capsaicin sprays must be reapplied frequently, especially after heavy rain, to maintain deterrent properties. Commercial products often recommend reapplication every seven to fourteen days or immediately following observed feeding.
Less reliable options include motion-activated sprinklers or commercial scents, such as fox or coyote urine. While a sudden spray of water or the smell of a predator may initially deter a squirrel, these animals are highly adaptable. They often quickly habituate to these sensory disruptions, rendering them ineffective long-term.
Removing Squirrels from the Area
When physical barriers and repellents fail to deter persistent individuals, active removal may become necessary. Humane live-trapping using cage traps is a standard method, with baits like peanut butter or cracked pecans proving highly effective. Once a squirrel is captured, the course of action is dictated by local laws, which vary significantly by jurisdiction.
Relocation is often complicated; some jurisdictions prohibit transporting and releasing nuisance wildlife without a permit, while others may require humane euthanasia. If permitted, the animal must be released a significant distance away—often five to ten miles or more—to prevent it from finding its way back. Always contact your local wildlife agency to understand the specific laws and required release distances.
Setting up a dedicated feeding station far from the pecan tree, stocked with less valuable nuts or corn, is an alternative strategy to divert the squirrel’s attention. This can reduce pressure on the pecan harvest but should be approached cautiously. Providing an easily accessible food source may unintentionally support a larger squirrel population in the immediate vicinity.