There are differing opinions on the effectiveness of moving squirrels from one’s backyard to a woodland area. Some people feel it is useless, and that more squirrels move in to replace their departed cousins.

I am of ‘it works’ camp, although one has to keep at the process steadily. For years, we had infestations, partly because we are surrounded on all sides by mature oak trees that provide ample food and nesting sites. Now the population seems more normal.

We use the Hav-a-Heart traps. The squirrels are mostly quiet, but from time to time, we get a vocal one. An amazing variety of sound is emitted from an average squirrel, and one that has puzzled me is the whispery one.

I usually chalk it up to fear. It’s only a short drive to some woods, though we do make sure it is at least five miles away.

It turns out that the ones with the Alec Baldwin-like voices are the loudest ones of all.