What Does Squirrel Poop Look Like?

Squirrels are often the bane of backyard gardeners, but they are also fascinating animals to observe and learn about. One of the telltale signs of squirrel activity that you can find around your garden is their poop, or scat. Knowing more about the appearance and features of squirrel poop can help you identify if squirrels have been visiting your backyard.

Squirrel Scat Descriptions

Squirrel scat is can vary in size depending on the species, but is usually between one fourth of an inch to one and a quarter inch in length. Squirrel scat is dark in color, usually black or dark brown. Squirrels are omnivores and their scat reflects this diverse diet, which includes both plant and animal matter. The scat will contain obvious pieces of nuts, nut shells, and corn kernels that can be easily seen among the stool.

Squirrel Scat Characteristics

Squirrel scat is segmented and coiled, with two or four looped coils in it. It often contains sharply rounded ends and is segmented into two or four cylinders, almost like egg-shaped oreos. Due to the presence of nuts in its diet, you may find pieces of nut shells, corn husks, and seeds scattered in squirrel scat. It also has a very pungent smell, so if you’re noticing an unpleasant scent in your garden, it’s a good sign that squirrels have been nosing around.

Significance of Squirrel Scat

Squirrel scat can be a good indication that squirrels have been visiting your garden. If you find scat around your garden, it may mean that the squirrels are familiar with the area and may be a sign that you’re going to have more furred visitors on your property.

If squirrel scat regularly appears in your garden, it pays to be aware of what it is that’s drawing the squirrels to your garden. Squirrels are known to forage for food, so it’s best to take steps to remove or protect food sources from their reach, like bird feeders or nuts you may have planted in your garden. Similarly, they may be attracted to your garden due to its safety and security; if you’re having issues with squirrels burrowing into your garden, it’s a good idea to fill any holes with netting or dirt to deter them.

By being more aware of the features and characteristics of squirrel scat, you can be better prepared to protect your garden from these furry visitors.