Richardson's ground squirrel

Identification

Size: 30–40 cm long, including tail

Color: Greyish-brown with a lighter underside

Description: Richardson’s ground squirrels are burrowing rodents commonly found in fields, lawns, and open areas. They cause damage through digging, feeding on vegetation, and creating extensive underground tunnel systems.

Richardson’s ground squirrel (Urocitellus richardsonii), often referred to as a gopher in Western Canada, is a common outdoor rodent pest found in grasslands, agricultural areas, parks, and residential properties. These ground-dwelling squirrels are highly social and typically live in colonies, which can lead to widespread damage if left unmanaged.

They are active primarily during daylight hours and spend much of their time foraging for food or maintaining their burrow systems. Richardson’s ground squirrels feed on grasses, seeds, crops, and ornamental plants, often stripping lawns and gardens of vegetation. Their extensive burrowing can weaken soil structure, damage landscaping, and create hazards for people, pets, and equipment.

In addition to property damage, these rodents can pose health risks. Their burrows may attract other pests, and they are known carriers of parasites such as fleas, which can transmit disease. Ground squirrel populations can increase rapidly due to high reproduction rates, making early intervention critical.

Effective control of Richardson’s ground squirrels requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the animals and their burrow systems. Professional pest control services help manage populations safely, humanely, and in compliance with local regulations while reducing the risk of reinfestation.

Richardson’s ground squirrels are medium-sized rodents with short legs, a stocky build, and a relatively short tail. They have rounded heads, small ears, and dark eyes. These squirrels are often seen standing upright near burrow entrances, especially in open grassy areas. Their burrows typically have multiple openings scattered across lawns or fields.

Common signs include multiple holes or mounds of loose soil across lawns, gardens, or fields. Patchy or disappearing vegetation, chewed plants, and visible squirrel activity during the day are strong indicators. In agricultural or acreage settings, damage may extend over large areas due to colony expansion.

Preventing Richardson’s ground squirrel infestations involves reducing attractants and limiting suitable habitat. Keep grass trimmed, remove brush or debris piles, and manage food sources such as fallen seed or grain. Fencing and habitat modification may help deter activity, but established colonies often require professional intervention to achieve long-term control.