The rules around managing or hunting them vary from state to state. Therefore, you must do your research before attempting to remove a squirrel from your land. For example, in Indiana, fox and gray squirrels are regulated species and can be hunted from mid-August to the end of January, but a license is required. American red squirrels can be taken year-round, but southern flying squirrels are protected and cannot be hunted.

Similarly, in Texas, squirrels are considered game animals. While protected by state laws, they can be killed during the designated hunting season or if they're inflicting damage to property or pose a threat to public safety. Although unlikely, if one finds its way into your home, call an expert pest control firm with the right credentials.

Instead of hunting them, consider natural and humane deterrents. Remove food sources such as nuts and seeds from your backyard, seal trash cans or try natural scents like peppermint. Squirrels also find certain plants unpleasant, including daffodils.

Protected species in America: what you can and can't remove from your home