If you're noticing an abundance of squirrels in your backyard or a few indicators that you might be dealing with an infestation, learn how to get rid of them safely and humanely.

DEAR JOAN: Your column on May 13 was on how to discourage rats. Now do squirrels. The furry little tree rats have decimated our apricot crop – the ground is littered with tiny, half-eaten fruits ...

Dear EarthTalk: What would you recommend as a non-toxic/non-lethal way to keep squirrels, gophers and groundhogs away?

Unfortunately, many pests love fruit trees and can easily damage leaves and spoil harvests. However, there are ways to get rid of these problematic visitors—without using harmful pesticides.