Unlike many other animals that have a fear of humans, most campground squirrels have become quite habituated to – and even dependent upon - a human presence. They look to humans as a source of two things: food and bedding. Therefore, the items most at risk are your food (which, in bear country, should be up the bear pole anyway!) and things like towels and wool socks. While the loss of these latter items may not be too devastating, the collateral damage may be: very often, in an attempt to explore your pack, squirrels and mice will chew holes in it to gain entry.
To avoid this:
- Keep food out of your pack as much as possible, even when you are not in bear country.
- Do not bring food into your tent. Squirrels and mice will chew through your tent in an effort to get to your food.
- Trail mix is especially attractive to rodents. Look for a secure place to store this. (Inside your pot set?)
If you choose to hang your food to keep it away from squirrels, remember to have some sort of “squirrel barrier” on the hanging rope. Also remember that squirrels can jump considerable distances to reach their goal. Keep in mind that hanging food may also become the target of ravens, crows, or magpies.
Bring your pack into the vestibule, if possible. In this way, you might at least hear the intruders when they come to visit.
Leave all pockets of your pack open. In this way, rodents can explore your pack without having to chew their way into it.
