by Becca Badgett

Created on: November 15, 2008   Last Updated: February 10, 2009

Many youngsters dream of their first venture into the sport of hunting wild game. Adults may also wish to participate in the pursuit, but have never tried. Give it a try! Scouting squirrel is a good way to break into the art of hunting wild game. One's first hunting trip should always be with an experienced hunter or outdoor guide.

Squirrel hunting is allowed during specified seasons and should be done in cold weather. Squirrels killed out of season are not safe to eat and in most areas, there are penalties for killing a squirrel, or other game, when out of season.

Listen to the Sounds of the Forest

One's first venture into the forest should be a quiet time when the guide will speak softly about the sounds that generate from wooded areas. Crows will caw and woodpeckers will tap. Turkeys gobble and cut (a whelp most often heard during mating season). One may hear the grunts and bleats of deer. Chattering indicates the presence of squirrels. The successful hunter will become acclimated to forest sounds and know what they mean.

Choosing a Gun

Choosing a gun for the hunt will differ according to the hunter's size and experience. A younger hunter with a slight body weight may prefer a 4/10 shotgun which has little kick. The smaller the gun, the closer the range will be for a successful shot. Ammunition for squirrel hunting should be size 7 to 8 shot, Remington Express is a brand preferred by many hunters. As familiarity and expertise increase, one may choose a 20 or 16 gauge shotgun. Experienced hunters may shoot with a rifle, which allows more accuracy and a wider range.

Where to Find Squirrels

A successful hunt most often occurs in a stand of hardwoods such as oak trees. Nut producing trees attract squirrels, as this is what they feed on and where they make their nests in winter. Cornfields surrounding the wooded area are ideal. Sit down or lean against a tree and listen. On dry days, listen for the rustling of leaves as the animal scampers on the ground. If leaves are wet from recent rain or snow, one must rely on eyesight.

Look in treetops if you hear no crackling. Moving branches alert the hunter to the squirrel's location. The animal may dart up the tree trunk and stop to blend in with the scenery. Once the squirrel is heard or seen, walk slowly and quietly in their direction. One's best shot will be at squirrels in trees within 50 yards or closer. A steady, deliberate walk is best so that the squirrel is not alerted to one's presence.

Primary importance lies in the quest for safety. All hunters should wear a bright orange cap or vest to alert other hunters in the area of their presence. Hunter safety classes are widely available before the season starts. A successful hunt will results in enough squirrels for a good meal. Most hunters feel it is wrong to kill an animal unless the bounty is used for food.

Learn more about this author, Becca Badgett.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.