Ground Squirrels in Los Angeles

Ground Squirrel Problems in Los Angeles County

California ground squirrels are one of the most common and destructive burrowing rodents in Los Angeles County. Unlike gophers, ground squirrels are social animals that live in colonies — a property with one visible squirrel typically has an extensive network of burrows housing multiple animals. Ground squirrel colonies are most common in properties adjacent to open space, hillsides, and undeveloped land throughout the county.

Ground squirrels cause significant damage to foundations, retaining walls, and sloped terrain through their extensive burrowing. A mature colony can have dozens of burrow entrances across a property, each extending several feet underground. The structural risk from ground squirrel burrows near foundations or on hillsides is more serious than gopher damage, which is primarily root-feeding.

Why Ground Squirrel Control Requires Specialized Approach

Ground squirrels are more cautious and harder to trap than gophers — they are above-ground animals with wide field of vision and strong predator awareness. Effective ground squirrel control requires specific trap types, correct placement locations near active burrow entrances, and persistence over multiple visits. Carbon monoxide treatment is also effective for occupied burrow systems.

Note: Ground squirrel service does not carry a guarantee due to the migratory nature of ground squirrel populations. Properties adjacent to open space experience continuous re-colonization pressure that makes a fixed guarantee impractical. Maintenance service is available for ongoing management of properties with persistent pressure.