SQUIRRELS can be both a "joy" to have around, and a nuisance or pest, as well. They will chew open holes in eves to get into attics, plant unwanted trees in gardens, and are notorious for their ingenuity at overcoming obstacles placed to keep them out of bird feeders.
Here in Eastern South Dakota, we have the "red squirrel." They are pretty, and fun to watch if you take the time. In controlling problem squirrels, you run head first into Mother Nature. If you have enough habitat in your immediate area to support (say) 30 squirrels, then you're going to have 30 squirrels there, and there's very little you can do to have any REAL effect on that number. You can buy a livetrap and easily catch many squirrels, in a short period of time; but nature will soon fill the void you left. When the habitat is still there, but the numbers are down; they will begin to naturally have larger litters of babies, with a higher survival rates, and in some instances, even have a second litter of little ones that year. The best bet is to "squirrel proof" your bird feeders, and keep an eye on your eves. If they're trying to get into a chimney or vent, you should put tight mesh wire (Like "chicken wire") over the openings to keep them out, but letting the air flow without restriction.
If you DO feel the need to trap and remove any, remember that in most states, South Dakota included; they are a game animal which means that they are protected, and have a regular "season" on them. It is OK to livetrap and relocate them, but care should be taken in picking out a place to release them. Also, if you want to insure that they don't find their way back (Often the same squirrel will go into the same hole, and get trapped in the same area of the building that he was first found in), you should take them AT LEAST 5 miles from where they were caught. Some good baits to use to lure them into a livetrap would be nuts (Peanuts, walnuts, etc.), corn, sunflower seeds, or my favorite - peanut butter! Remember to check your trap(s) often. Squirrels are wild, and become quickly agitated when trapped, and will hurt themselves if left unattended too long.
