SHOOTING SQUIRRELS,,,(not the fuzzy cute grey ones!!)
No, these squirrel groups require management! They are the ugly, obnoxious, greedy, dirty brown, skinny-tailed ones we see running around, on top of and into acres of land. They create much havoc and destruction by ruining crops of alfalfa and other grains at a very high cost to the farmer. They live underground and the holes they dig can easily break the legs of cattle. Therefore, many farmers are very hospitable to the shooters they are fortunate to befriend who are willing to come on their property and shoot the varmints.
And, so it was…the weekend of May 14-15. Friends, Garry Erck and his father Ray, plus Gary Pilkington, booked a trip with Guide, Cole McAuliffe, Chrome Tales Guide Service and Oregon Outfitter out of Klamath Falls. SEP jumped on too when a fourth spot became available. This means organization - not to be taken lightly. Getting ready…clothing, for hot, warm or wet weather…snacks, cold drinks, ammo…and of course, the right guns, complete with scopes is a najor undertaking Rifles are an important part of the equation – they must be “sighted in” to ensure accuracy, which includes the scope. Squirrels are quite small and against a brown dirt covered background, are difficult to spot, making them an excellent target for sharp-shooters. It all came to pass and they had a great weekend!!
The trailer was supplied by Guide Cole and provides an exciting vantage point, or a
shooter may, as Garry and Ray chose to do, shoot from tables at ground level. SEP prefers the trailer. As a matter of fact, SEP has had his own shooting trailer for years that he utilizes at home or locally. Shooting squirrels has become the indicator that Spring has arrived and SEP anticipates the shoots as much as the sunshine! It all depends on when the farmer cuts the alfalfa!
This is a sport for the sporty! SEP and the guys have gone “squirrel shooting” prior to this booked trip and it provides an outing that is totally enjoyed by those who shoot. It is not harmful to the environment and provides sustenance to many other species. They were fortunate to see eight bald eagles, five golden eagles and many hawks and crows that came to feast and other varmints like coyotes, clear the fields during the night hours. The farmer was delighted to have them come to shoot these destructive little devils and the fresh air and camaraderie made it a good time for all. They will book trips again.
