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

LEDE2026 Trail Camera Lineup
LEDE2026 Trail Camera Lineup

First Look: 2026 Spypoint Trail Camera Lineup

Spypoint's 2026 trail camera line-up features three new models designed to deliver on flexibility and control.

Hardware Review: Christensen Arms Evoke .375 H&H

A .375 H&H Magnum for less than $1,000 is a win for hunters on any continent, especially when it comes packed with features and has the sub-MOA accuracy potential of the American-made Evoke from Christensen Arms.

New for 2026: Avian-X Waterfowl Backpacks

Expanding its assortment to include soft goods in 2026, waterfowl brand Avian-X has announced an all-new lineup of packs specifically designed to keep waterfowl hunters organized, mobile and ready for anything.

Behind the Bullet: The .308 Norma Magnum

Norma’s ballistician Nils Kvale saw the wisdom of having the velocity and horsepower of the .300 H&H Magnum, but in a shorter, more affordable receiver, and used the H&H case to develop his .358 Norma Magnum in 1959 as well as the .308 Norma Magnum one year later. The .308 Norma Magnum closely resembles the wildcat .30-338 cartridge, though the shoulder of the former is located a bit more toward the base than that of the .308 Norma Magnum. Intrigued? Read on about this often unfairly overlooked hunting classic.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV

The Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV, from Browning Trail Cameras, promises direct video transmission and streamlined setup without adding complexity.

Is Wildcatting Right for You?

Dennis Bradley explores the potential benefits of going with a wildcat cartridge, using the .375 Raptor as a case study.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.