Quick Answer
Short Answer: Leaf change has a significant impact on squirrel behavior, causing them to become more active and vocal during certain seasons, making them easier to locate and hunt. Squirrels tend to be more active during the fall, particularly during the peak of leaf change when food sources are abundant. This increased activity is crucial for hunters to consider when planning their still-hunting strategies.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior During Leaf Change
During peak leaf change, typically in late September to early November, squirrels become more active and vocal due to the abundance of food sources. This heightened activity is driven by the availability of nuts, seeds, and fruits from deciduous trees. Hunters can take advantage of this increased movement by still-hunting in areas with dense hardwood forests, such as oak, maple, and beech.
Hunting Techniques for Leaf-Change Squirrels
When still-hunting for squirrels during leaf change, it’s essential to focus on areas with a mix of hardwoods and conifers. These areas provide an ideal environment for squirrels to forage and cache food, increasing their activity. Hunters should aim to set up still-hunting positions near these areas, using natural cover such as rocks, logs, and bushes to conceal themselves. A good pair of binoculars and a reliable rifle, such as a .22, are essential for taking advantage of these opportunities.
Effective Shotguns for Leaf-Change Squirrel Hunting
While a .22 is an excellent choice for hunting squirrels, a shotgun can also be effective, particularly when hunting in dense cover. A 20-gauge or 12-gauge shotgun with a tight choke can help hunters make clean shots on squirrels at close range. When using a shotgun, it’s crucial to aim for the head or chest area, as these shots are more likely to result in a quick kill. Hunters should also be aware of the recoil and noise level of their shotgun, as these can spook squirrels and make them more difficult to hunt.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.