Hot pepper contains a chemical called capsaicin, which is what is responsible for the “hot” in “hot pepper”. A squirrel's strong sense of taste and smell are irritated by the capsaicin in hot pepper. Placing hot pepper flakes or spray in an area where squirrels frequent will keep them away.
Is cayenne pepper harmful to squirrels?
Cayenne pepper will burn squirrels' mouths just as it would to humans. There's absolutely nothing to worry about because cayenne pepper doesn't put squirrels into any harm, other than just driving them away from eating more bird seeds.
Can squirrels taste pepper?
Capsaicin – Go for the taste buds! Squirrels are similar to humans in that their taste buds can detect hot pepper.
What pepper do squirrels not like?
Cayenne Pepper - The Best Squirrel Repellent Cayenne pepper is a GREAT squirrel repellent. Why? The chemical in cayenne pepper is the same chemical used in pepper spray, a common deterrent for bears and humans.
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