The desert has several animals who might damage your trees and plants, such as javelina, squirrels, and rabbits. It is important to recognize the different signs—like bark stripping—that can help your Tucson landscaper identify the animals damaging your trees. Here are the signs to look for:
Browsing
Browsing refers to the signs of an animal feeding on your trees, bushes, and plants. You may notice small shoots or buds have been chewed on or chewed off of the foliage in your yard. Even if you see these signs on weeds or plants that you do not care for, it is important to set up preventative measures before the animals begin feeding on your trees.
Bark Stripping
Bark stripping can occur to a tree’s branches and trunk. Animals may gnaw on the bark to sharpen their teeth, receive nutrition, and even for medicinal purposes. Squirrels, rabbits, and birds all gnaw or drill into trees. Other animals may cause bark stripping by rubbing or scratching a tree. Deer will often rub their antlers on trees, which can cause significant damage. Cats—domestic and wild—will also scratch to sharpen their claws, run up the tree, or mark their territories. Once you identify the type of bark stripping and what animal may be the culprit, your landscaper can install tree protectors, chicken wire wraps, or use animal repellent.
Identifying Information
There are other ways to identify what type of animal may be harming your trees. If you can find tracks nearby, then you may be able to identify the type and size of the animal infiltrating your yard. Examine your damaged tree for other signs, such as the height of the damage and the size of the teeth marks. Consider the time of year these signs occur. All of this information may help you or your landscaper identify the animals who are damaging your trees and plants.
Work with the expert landscapers and arborists of Complete Landscaping to protect your yard and trees in Tucson, AZ. Please call us at (520) 323-8918 to set up an appointment right away.