Exclusion is expensive and generally practical only in situations where cost is not a primary concern. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels are very good at digging and climbing. They can be kept out of electrical substations or similar installations with hardware cloth topped with sheet metal. Most electrical substations or other secured installations are enclosed by chain link fencing that can be made ground squirrel-proof. Dig a trench 18 inches (45 cm) wide and 18 inches (45 cm) deep around the installation next to the outside of the existing fence. Install galvanized 0.5-inch (1.3-cm) or smaller mesh hardware cloth (6 foot [2 m] wide) across the bottom and up the side of the trench adjacent to the existing fence, continuing it 3 feet (1 m) up the fence. Backfill the trench. Securely attach the hardware cloth to the chain link fence using wire, hog rings, or j-clips. Attach sheet metal or flashing, 2 to 3 feet (61 to 90 cm) wide, to and above the hardware cloth. Adjust all gates to fit within 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) of the support post and the ground. It may be necessary to install a concrete threshold to keep squirrels from digging under the gate. Cultural Methods Activity in fields and gardens can be discouraged by deep soil cultivation, which destroys burrows and changes the habitat. Allow grassy areas to grow as tall and as dense as possible, consistent with local land use practices. Such vegetation discourages ground squirrels but may encourage population of other small mammals, such as voles (Microtus spp.). Plant crops as early as possible, before the squirrels emerge from hibernation, to reduce losses of seed and seedlings. Deter ground squirrels and other small mammals from feeding on crop seeds and seedlings by providing them with an alternative food source. At planting, broadcast 4 bushels of cracked corn per acre (0.35 m/ha) over the outside four to eight rows adjacent to ground squirrel habitat. It may also be necessary to spot treat fields in areas where damage is expected or observed, especially if conservation tillage is employed. Resources: (online) Thirteen-lined ground squirrel

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