Know-How: Shake a Stick at Spring Squirrels

by
posted on May 16, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
shake_stick_squirrels_f.jpg

Want to bring squirrels out of hiding this spring? Here’s a killer tactic for the early seasons in many states.

All of that bushytail love that was going on in January and February has resulted in young squirrels venturing from the nest. And just like most animals, parental instincts for squirrels are innate. Exploit those instincts by simulating an attack on the young from an owl or hawk. The result: Every momma and papa squirrel in the vicinity will come out of hiding to shake their tails and bark at the attacker. In doing so, they provide you with a short window to fill your strap—if you’re quick enough on the trigger.

Step 1: Cut and carry with you a leafy branch that you can easily control with one hand.

Step 2: Shake that branch and rake it amongst nearby greenery to cause a ruckus then hit a squirrel-in-distress call. Kick the leaf litter and add some dying squeaks to send the message home.

Step 3: Keep your eyes high and be ready for quick shots; you may get only a few seconds to pull the trigger.

Latest

NRA ILA Lede
NRA ILA Lede

NRA Files Lawsuits Challenging Virginia's Assault Weapons and Magazine Bans

The National Rifle Association (NRA) has announced the filing of lawsuits in both Virginia state court and federal court challenging the so-called "assault weapons" ban and magazine ban signed into law by Governor Abigail Spanberger.

Hog Hunting with Chef Holly: Hogs from Field to Table

Want to learn how to handle a hog from field to table? Listen to a chef who dedicated a summer to doing just that. Here’s what she learned about cleaning and cooking wild hogs.

First Look: Woox Bravado Grey Laminate Stocks

Woox has announced its new Bravado Grey Laminate line of stocks. These stocks are engineered for compatibility with Henry and Marlin lever-action rifles.

#SundayGunday: Thompson/Center Arms Encore ProHunter

On this week's #SundayGunday, we check out the T/C Encore ProHunter. It is a stainless steel, break-action, interchangeable barrel, single-shot rifle, that can be fitted with any number of barrels, from centerfire to muzzleloader. On the centerfires, it has a 26-inch heavy fluted barrel with a muzzle threaded to add a brake or silencer. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Alligator Hunting Opportunities Are Expanding

This year, both Florida and Louisiana are expanding or introducing new opportunities for alligator hunts. For decades, Florida has estimated that there are over one million in the state—it is, of course, hard to count alligators. Louisiana now says its alligator population exceeds three million. The two states have managed their alligator populations very differently over the last half century, but now both are expanding hunting opportunities to help manage alligator populations.

Equipment to Film and Shoot Like the Pros

Curious how the pros get such great shots of their hunts? Check out some of the equipment they use to make sure their hunts look as smooth on camera as they go in the field.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.