u/BlacksmithNew4557

I had an arborist check out a few cedar elms that I have that are probably 10-15 years old last year, they had a spider mite problem, took care of that.

At the same visit we noticed bark that was scratched off, I thought it was a pest or a fungus, but he was sure it was squirrels. He said the only solution was a BB gun (this is central Texas, lol.

Now, the bark scratching has gotten significantly worse and I’m afraid I’m going to loose these trees, I’ve already lost a few branches.

1. does it look like squirrels?
2. what’s a good way to deter?

Thanks much in advance!