RICHARDSON GROUND SQUIRRELS

Over the past three years, the federal government phased out the use of 2% Liquid Strychnine for the control of Richardson Ground Squirrels. As of March 4, 2023, strychnine possession and use is prohibited.

This has left many agriculture producers wondering how they are going to control Richardson Ground Squirrel populations. There are options available that can be used as part of an Integrated Pest Management approach.

Cultural control — leave vegetation long and don’t overgraze pastures. Build nesting boxes, raptor platforms, and perches to encourage natural predation.

Direct/physical control — deep tillage can destroy old burrow systems. Trapping and shooting are other effective methods but can be labour intensive.

Chemical control — there are two product options that can be purchased through your local agriculture retailer:

• Zinc Phosphide is an acute rodenticide, meaning it is fast acting and the target pest only needs to consume a small amount for a lethal dose.

• Rozol or Ground Force is a multi-feed bait that must be baited every couple of days to ensure the target pest consumes enough product for a lethal dose.

Monitoring the site is important to prevent other animals when determining the best control methods for your operation.

Timing is key to efficient control. Control should be initiated when the males first emerge above ground and before the females go underground to have their litter.