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

Hunter Blowing Call
Hunter Blowing Call

Downsize for End of Season Ducks

If you slog through just one frustrating morning of hunting off the “X,” you’ll learn the biggest spreads and best calling this time of year won’t do a thing to pull ducks toward you.

Mossberg Adds 940 Pro Waterfowl Shotgun in Realtree Legacy

For 2025 Mossberg's 940 Pro Waterfowl is continuing on with an optic-ready receiver cut to accept direct mounting of micro-dot optics (RMSc-pattern), while also becoming available fully finished in Realtree's Legacy pattern.

New for 2026: Bergara Premier Series CIMA Pro

Bergara has introduced its latest model of Premier Series rifles, the Cima Pro.

New for 2026: Millennium Dinner Bell 350 Feeder

Millennium Treestands has announced its Dinner Bell 350 Feeder.

First Look: ScentLok BE:1 Revenant Jacket and Bib

ScentLok has introduced the upgraded BE:1 Revenant Jacket and Bib, designed to be a trusted companion through the last minute, of the last day of the season.

New for 2026: YHM Victra-20 Modular Shotgun Suppressor

Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) has announced the debut of the Victra-20, a new modular sound suppressor engineered specifically for 20-gauge single-barreled shotguns, plus new Turkey and Skeet choke options for the Victra-12.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.