If You See A Tree Trunk Wrapped In Metal Wire, Here's What It Means

Whether you live in a suburban, urban, or more rural area, chances are you've come across different colors painted on trees in your neighborhood from time to time. For example, blue or yellow paint might indicate that a tree is going to be cut down soon, while purple markings generally mean not to trespass. A tree that is home to an endangered species may even be indicated with a white circle on its trunk. Metal sheeting or wiring around a tree doesn't have anything to do with endangered species, boundaries, or tree cutting, though. Instead of being markers for informational purposes, a tree trunk wrapped in metal is intended to mitigate activity from certain wildlife, such as squirrels.

Also called baffles or collars, metal sheets around tree trunks are intended to help prevent unwanted pests from climbing up and possibly destroying the tree. Perhaps the most notorious example is the ubiquitous squirrel, which is also known for its impressive acrobatic capabilities. Not only do squirrels damage tree bark as they climb up, but they can also use trees to build nests, as well as damage twigs and branches. Some homeowners do not mind having these furry rodents around, and they might even find ways to attract squirrels to a garden or yard. If you see metal sheeting on tree trunks though, this is definitely an indication that the property owner does not want squirrels around those trees.

The purpose of a metal-based collar around a tree trunk is to make it challenging for squirrels and other wildlife from climbing up a tree and destroying it. This strategy is even considered among the best ways to keep squirrels away from fruit trees. In theory, the critter might slide down as they try to climb the piece of sheeting, making access to anything beyond the metal unachievable. This method also works best on taller trees with baffles placed 5 feet from the ground or more, as well as on trees that are not near structures, fences, or other trees that a squirrel might be able to jump over and bypass the metal collar.

If seeing metal sheeting around tree trunks has inspired you to install these squirrel baffles around your own trees, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. First, you do not want to use these metal wires during tree growth season, as this can inhibit them from thriving. Make sure any sheeting or wiring is at least 2 feet wide so squirrels and other wildlife cannot easily jump over it and continue on their merry way. The metal sheeting will likely also be most effective when it's placed 6 to 8 feet off the ground. It's also preferable to use wires and springs instead of hammering metal sheeting with nails, as the latter technique may damage the tree.