What diameter plastic pipe is recommended to stop squirrels from traveling along wires?

• A. 2- to 3-inch diameter
• B. 1- to 1.5-inch diameter
• C. 4- to 6-inch diameter
• D. 1/2-inch diameter

Answer: (A)

Using a smooth plastic barrier around the wire works because squirrels rely on gripping surfaces to move along lines. A pipe in the 2- to 3-inch diameter is large enough to prevent the animal from wrapping its claws around it and gaining traction, but not so large that it becomes a foothold or something the squirrel can easily straddle. Smaller diameters would still give the squirrel a grip and allow it to continue traveling, while much larger diameters can create a surface the animal can contend with or bypass. So the 2- to 3-inch range effectively blocks climbing along the wire.