Along Colorado's Front Range, the eastern fox squirrel is very active. During winter months when food is scarce, these squirrels may damage trees by chewing bark from branches and trunks. The injured tree then oozes sap from the wound, and dieback of these branches may become noticeable later in the spring. Sap can discolor bark and is a nuisance when it drips on vehicles and furniture. Remember that bleeding will stop when buds break open in the Spring.
To control bleeding, wait until AFTER budbreak to prune those trees that tend to bleed. To limit damage from squirrels, provide food for them throughout the winter, especially if you value them as members of the backyard community.
For information about controlling squirrels, call the Colorado Division of Wildlife or Colorado State University Cooperative Extension in Jefferson County at (303) 271-6620. You can exclude squirrels from trees by using metal collars, two feet in diameter placed at least six feet up onto the tree trunk. Attach the collars using wires with springs that allow for tree growth. Some people fashion their own metal collars. If you do this, don't nail them to the tree. For collars to be effective, you also must eliminate all other access from power lines and buildings.
