Squirrels seem to be present around the yards, but their visibility can be inconsistent. Sometimes, they are nowhere to be seen, as was the case today. However, there is one squirrel that is always present. It appears that certain days and times are more conducive to spotting them. I am unsure what triggers their activity, but it seems to be related to weather conditions and possibly biometric factors. I have noticed that fishing and trail cameras with biometric pressure sensors can provide valuable insights, but these devices can be expensive. I am considering investing in a single, high-end trail camera. Alternatively, I could focus on hunting squirrels on public lands on days when they are not present in the yard. If I were to bait them, I would likely see more activity, similar to deer. However, hunting squirrels without bait on public lands can be challenging, as they may be concentrated in backyard areas with bait. Timing and selecting the right days for hunting could improve the chances of success. Another option I am considering is getting a dog, specifically trained for squirrel hunting. This approach has been successful for others, including my grandfather, who used to hunt with a friend's dogs. Having a dog would eliminate the need for a rifle, and I could use my shotgun instead. Finding someone with a dog trained for squirrel hunting could be a viable option, but I would need to convince my wife to allow another dog in the house. I am thinking of adopting a puppy trained for squirrel hunting without discussing it with my wife beforehand, hoping that she will accept the new addition to our family.
