Squirrels Spared Ax but May Face the Knife

Squirrels drawn to a city swimming pool area were spared the ax, but may yet go under the knife as city officials look for ways to control the pesky rodents.

The squirrels have been haunting the Richmond Plunge for years, multiplying as swimmers shared french fries and other food. The city had considered extermination, but will now try to control the animals by putting up “No Feeding” signs, spraying repellent and, as a last resort, spaying and neutering some of the creatures.