My neighbors have put out traps to kill ground squirrels (13 lined). They seem to think they will undermine their foundation, sidewalks, and patios and that they will get into their houses. Is there any truth to that, and if so, how likely is that to happen? Yesterday, we found a ground squirrel stuck in it's burrow entrance (on our property) with a trap attached to it's foot. Clearly the trap isn't killing them instantly, and I think it's incredibly inhumane. When confronted, the neighbors (more than one by the way) said their only other alternative would be to put out poison. Is that even legal? They could poison anything, and very likely would poison any hawks that eat the dying squirrels! Help! Thank you.

This response was provided by Darryl Coates, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, District Wildlife Biologist.

Good morning, Thirteen-lined ground squirrels will inhabit golf courses, parks, lawns, athletic fields, cemeteries, gardens and farms. Their burrowing and feeding activity can cause major economic and aesthetic damage in such places. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are not protected by federal or Illinois state law.

The most effective method of controlling thirteen-lined ground squirrel damage will depend on the situation. Wooden-base rat-sized snap traps or live traps may be the best methods for eliminating one or two animals from a garden. Toxicants (poisons) are manufactured to control thirteen-lined ground squirrels. Like any other pesticide they must be used with caution and care as not to harm non-targeted species. Many of the pesticides used to control thirteen-lined ground squirrels are Restricted Use Pesticides that may only be sold to and used by certified pesticide applicators or persons working under their direct supervision, and only for those uses covered by the licensed applicator’s certification. Contact your local cooperative extension agent, state or provincial pesticide regulatory agency for information regarding special permit requirements. Before using any pesticide, read and follow all label directions. Specific use instructions can be found on the individual product labels. I hope this answer has helped.