When Do California Ground Squirrels Hibernate

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When Do Those Cheeky California Ground Squirrels Hibernate?

So, you've got a ground squirrel problem? Or maybe you're just a curious soul who wants to know when those little furry bandits decide to call it a day and hit the snooze button for a few months. Either way, you're in the right place, my friend. Let's dive into the fascinating world of squirrel slumber.

When Do California Ground Squirrels Hibernate
When Do California Ground Squirrels Hibernate

The Great California Ground Squirrel Hibernation Mystery

Now, you might think it's as simple as saying, "They hibernate in winter, duh!" but it's not quite that straightforward. These little critters are more complex than they look.

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First off, let's talk about geography. If you're lucky enough to live in the sunny coastal regions of Southern California, chances are you've got ground squirrels running around all year long. Those guys are more like beach bums than hibernators. They might take a little nap here and there when it gets really hot, but full-on hibernation? Not their style.

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On the other hand, if you live in the inland areas where the winters are a bit chillier, your ground squirrel friends are more likely to embrace the cozy concept of hibernation. They'll curl up in their burrows and catch some serious Zzz's until the weather starts to warm up.

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The Art of Estivation: It's Not Just for Turtles

But wait, there's more! In addition to hibernation, California ground squirrels have another trick up their sleeve: estivation. It's basically hibernation for summer. When the temperatures soar and the drought sets in, these clever critters go into a state of reduced metabolic activity to conserve energy. Talk about beating the heat!

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So, When Do They Actually Hibernate?

To sum it up, California ground squirrels are not exactly sticklers for a hibernation schedule. It depends on where they live and what the weather is doing. But generally speaking, if you're in a colder climate, you can expect them to hibernate during the winter months. And if you're in a hotter climate, they might estivate during the summer.

Important Note: Young ground squirrels are party animals. They tend to skip hibernation their first year and focus on growing and exploring. So, if you're dealing with a particularly pesky population, it might be a while before they hit the hay.

How to... Deal with Ground Squirrels

  • How to deter ground squirrels: A combination of repellents, fencing, and habitat modification can help keep ground squirrels at bay.
  • How to prevent ground squirrel damage: Protect your garden with fencing, netting, or repellents.
  • How to humanely coexist with ground squirrels: Understanding their behavior and providing alternative food sources can help reduce conflicts.
  • How to identify ground squirrel burrows: Look for fresh dirt piles and entrance holes near their favorite food sources.
  • How to protect your property from ground squirrel damage: Combine prevention methods with professional wildlife control if necessary.
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ca.govhttps://www.cdph.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.dmv.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.caenergycommission.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.chhs.ca.gov

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