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

Practice Shooting Clays From A Variety Of Positions With Friends Smaller File
Practice Shooting Clays From A Variety Of Positions With Friends Smaller File

Are You Ready for Dove Season?

Dove season is upon us. Are you going to be the butt of the jokes on the dove field or the one ribbing your buddies?

Range Review: The Next Generation 2-Tone Taurus Judge Revolver

The latest version of the Taurus Judge incorporates features from the Raging Hunter series with a few unique touches of its own.

Mossberg 590S Shockwave X Federal Shorty Shells: A Backpacking Combo?

This Mossberg and Federal gun and ammunition combination is about as compact as you can get but can it do the job in the great outdoors?

First Look: Excalibur Crossbow Suppressor CRT

Excalibur Crossbow has expanded its Micro Series with the Suppressor CRT. A hunt-ready recurve crossbow, the Suppressor CRT promises ultra-quiet technology, compact maneuverability for utility in treestands and blinds, and durable simplicity without compromising performance.

Field Tested: BOSS Copper Shotshells

With bismuth and tungsten now being in short supply and extra-expensive, BOSS Shotshells switched to copper pellets for its waterfowl loads. What can you expect performance-wise from this new shot type? Read on.

Savings Aimed at Waterfowlers

Some of the industry’s finest are offering special promotions on shotshells designed for waterfowl season. Opening day arrives in a few short weeks, which makes the timing of these rebates ideal for hunters whose ammo inventory is a little light.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.