Ground Squirrels Invading CA After Poison Ban, Exterminator Says

Ground Squirrel Infestations Surge in California Following Rodenticide Ban: What Homeowners Need to Know

California homeowners are now facing a new pest problem: a noticeable surge in ground squirrel infestations. This issue is becoming more widespread across urban, suburban, and agricultural areas following the implementation of Assembly Bill 1322, a new California law that restricts the use of certain rodenticides.

As a trusted name in local pest control, Los Angeles Termite & Pest Control is here to explain what this means for your home and property, and what steps you can take to protect your investment.

Understanding the Impact of Assembly Bill 1322

Assembly Bill 1322, also known as the California Ecosystems Protection Act, bans the use of certain second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides, including diphacinone, which was widely used for controlling ground squirrel populations. While this law was created to protect wildlife such as hawks, owls, and mountain lions from secondary poisoning, it has unintentionally limited effective control options for burrowing rodents like ground squirrels.

Because these chemicals are now off the table, homeowners and pest control professionals are left with fewer tools to control these pests. The most viable options—such as trapping, exclusion, and physical deterrents—require more time, labor, and resources, particularly when an infestation is widespread.

The Risks Posed by Ground Squirrels

Ground squirrels may look harmless, but they can pose serious threats to both residential and commercial properties.

1. Structural Damage

Ground squirrels are notorious for their burrowing behavior. Their tunnels can compromise the stability of foundations, driveways, fences, patios, and even sidewalks. Left untreated, these tunnels can cause thousands of dollars in repair costs.

2. Health Hazards

These pests can carry diseases like plague and salmonella, posing risks to both humans and pets. In addition, their feces and urine can contaminate soil, air, and nearby food sources.

3. Landscaping & Garden Destruction

Ground squirrels feed on plants, flowers, fruits, and vegetables. A well-maintained garden can quickly turn into a feeding ground, leading to crop loss and plant death.

4. Wildfire Risk

Their burrows can weaken root structures in dry, brushy areas, increasing the risk of erosion and even wildfires, particularly during California's dry seasons.

How Los Angeles Termite & Pest Control Can Help

At Los Angeles Termite & Pest Control, we specialize in safe, humane, and effective pest solutions that comply with California's strict environmental laws. Our team is trained in the latest non-chemical ground squirrel control techniques, including:

Customized Trapping Programs

We design targeted trapping solutions based on your property’s layout and infestation level, ensuring efficient population reduction.

Burrow Exclusion Techniques

Our technicians identify and block entry points to prevent squirrels from returning. We use mesh wiring and underground barriers that blend with your landscaping.

 Habitat Modification

By changing the environment around your home—trimming vegetation, sealing garbage bins, and removing food sources—we make your property less attractive to ground squirrels.

 Follow-Up and Monitoring

We don’t just set traps and leave. Our ongoing monitoring ensures that the infestation is completely resolved and doesn’t return.

Preventative Measures for Homeowners

Here are some proactive steps you can take to reduce your chances of a ground squirrel infestation:

• Keep Your Yard Clean: Remove fallen fruits, vegetables, and birdseed. Avoid leaving pet food outside.

• Install Physical Barriers: Use wire mesh around garden beds and under fences to prevent burrowing.

• Seal Entry Points: Ensure that garage doors, crawl spaces, and foundations are properly sealed.

• Trim Trees and Bushes: Overgrown vegetation offers hiding spots and nesting areas.

• Store Trash Properly: Use animal-proof bins with tight-fitting lids.

Conclusion

The rise in ground squirrel infestations is a direct result of California's evolving environmental policies. While these laws aim to protect native wildlife, they have also made it more challenging to manage destructive pests like ground squirrels.

But with the right knowledge and a trusted partner like Los Angeles Termite & Pest Control, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Whether you’re dealing with an active infestation or want to prevent one in the future, our team is here to protect your home and peace of mind.