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.