Invasion Of Squirrels: Why You’re Seeing So Many Right Now in Illinois

Seems like I'm playing 'dodge a squirrel" every time I'm driving anywhere these days. Do you feel the same?

Whether I'm driving in a residential neighborhood or hanging out on my front porch, there are so many squirrels just running the streets. I'm not talking a few regulars that chase each other in my yard, but way more than usual. It's like they're taking over!

Or, I just don't get outside enough. Could be both.

I did some research and realized it's prime time for squirrels to come out of hibernation. Go figure.

Invasion Of Squirrels: Why You're Seeing So Many Right Now in Illinois

Not only are they coming out of hibernation, but mating season has arrived, and they are on a mission to dig up all their snack stashes they hid away during the colder months.  If you're seeing a ton of holes all over your yard, this probably explains why.

"Squirrels are scavengers. Or, more accurately, they are foragers. This means they look for fruits, nuts, seeds, and other kinds of food on the ground. They don’t dig their nests in the ground because this would make them vulnerable as prey. However, squirrels do use holes for food." [absolutelawnpros]

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My dad has been chasing squirrels away from digging holes in his backyard, and he has tried every kind of remedy to keep them from ruining his lawn.  Maybe they'll work for you!

Here's how to (hopefully) prevent these little guys from damaging your beautiful yards.

• Keep your garbage sealed
• Don't leave food out for them
• Keep pet food inside
• Set up scarecrows
• Wire mesh over garden soil
• Keep your yard maintained

They are potential ways to keep squirrels from destroying your yards.  They're going to be more active, more noticeable, and ready to raise babies.  So, you're not going crazy.  There is a crazy invasion of squirrels around town right now.