How to keep squirrels away from your pumpkins

“Commercial squirrel repellents are readily available and can be effective,” says Karvonen. “These usually contain capsaicin [the compound that makes hot peppers hot], oil of mustard or a taste repellent called Thiram.” Beware, though -- some squirrel repellents smell like rotten eggs, so you’ll have to keep your pumpkins away from the house.

Capsaicin strikes again. Blend up hot peppers with enough water to make them liquid (or use hot sauce), add a little dish soap or oil to help the formula stick, then spray your pumpkin. Chances are, squirrels will go find something more appetizing to chew on. Reapply the spray every couple of days, especially if it rains. And don’t worry that squirrels will be hurt from the hotness. According to Karvonen, the Toronto Wildlife Centre had very few squirrel calls related to repellents, because it’s the smell, not the taste, that repels them.

This one might work, says Karvonen, although it depends on how smelly your dog is and whether the squirrels around your house are habituated to the smell of your pooch. Try using a friend’s dog — preferably one that likes rolling around in the dirt.

“This is what we use if we want to encourage a mother squirrel to move out of a space,” explains Karvonen. “It smells like a predator, so squirrels will avoid it.” Gross, but effective. Simply scoop the dirty cat litter into containers and place them around (or in) the pumpkin.

Oil of eucalyptus and vinegar can both repel squirrels. Vinegar can damage the outside of your Jack O’ Lantern, so sprinkle some around its base. You can dab eucalyptus oil right onto the pumpkin.

Smearing a thick coat of petroleum jelly all over your pumpkin can work — squirrels don’t like the slippy, sticky texture on their feet, so they’re less likely to nibble. Another option is a metholatum-based vapor rub, which combines an unpleasant texture with a strong, unappealing smell. (Just don’t forget to wipe your pumpkins off when you need to pick them up.)

Spraying hairspray or lacquer on your pumpkin are alternatives that will create an unpleasant texture if squirrels actually do take a bite, discouraging them from eating more. Make sure you get a thick coat on all parts of the pumpkin, and reapply if the coating appears to be getting thin.

If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. “Personally, I think it’s hilarious to watch a squirrel have a go at a great big pumpkin, but I can understand that if you’ve carved something really intricate, you wouldn’t want that ruined,” says Karvonen. “After Halloween, we feed the squirrels at the centre with donated Jack O’ Lanterns, and they love them.”