Do you dislike these pesky guys? I am fixing to tell you how to keep them at bay!

If you have those beautiful shade trees in your yard, then you probably have a huge crop of those pesky squirrels. Many years ago, squirrel stews were a household item. This kept the population of the critters low.

Now, big cities have everything on the menu, except squirrel. They are the cutest pest, but do not let them fool you, they are crafty and a bit sneaky. I call mine ninja squirrels, they have all the moves and will definitely entertain you. Sometimes, I think the noise they make is laughter, I think they know I am watching them out smart me.

I love to watch my birds in the trees out front and also in our feeder, then in the bird bath. They do not stay and play much, since the little gray critters have taken over. When you are not looking, they will make nests in your trees and others are brave enough to nest in attics, basements, and vacant chimneys. There diet is made up of acorns, other wild bird feed. If the little guy is hungry enough, he will feast on your tulips, crocus, daylilies and several other bulbs. They at times will snack on your hedges. You can keep them off of your flowers, bulbs, by making chicken wire boxes. Wood frames, staple chicken wire over them except on one side leave it open., Take the boxes and turn them upside down over your precious plants and the squirrel can not get to them.

Remember do not feed the squirrels, because a healthy steady diet from you will make the squirrels increase their litter sizes. As you can see, this will cause the critters to over run your place and others.

Squirrels dislike morning glories ,broccoli, hot peppers and daffodils, so plant these everywhere you would like.

To teach the squirrels to stay in their allowed spots in your yard, sprinkle your birdseed with cayenne pepper, they hate the stuff, and the birds can not taste it. Here is a solution that my friend told me:

1. You will need a 2-gallon plastic jug that has a screw on lid.

2. Now, fill the jug two thirds full, and add a heaping tablespoon of cayenne pepper.

3. Put your lid on, shake very well, do not add this to your birdfeeders.

Remember while handling the cayenne pepper, wear gloves and make sure not to get it in your eyes.

I also have a tonic to keep those squirrels off of your plants. You will need:

two tbsp. of cayenne pepper

2. Two tbsp. of Tabasco sauce.

3. Two tbsp. of chili powder

4. One tbsp. of Murphy’s Oil Soap

5. One quart of warm water

Mix all together, pour into a hand held sprayer and liberally spray on everyone of your plants.