Dealing with squirrels can be surprisingly troublesome. These seemingly cute and harmless creatures can cause significant damage to your property by gnawing on wood, chewing through electrical wires, and digging in gardens. If you’re facing a squirrel problem, here are effective strategies to mitigate damage and prevent future issues.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior
To effectively deal with squirrels, it’s important to understand why they are attracted to your property. Squirrels typically enter homes looking for food or nesting sites. Common areas where squirrels can cause damage include attics, eaves, and gardens. They are particularly attracted to areas where they can find shelter and food, such as bird feeders, garbage bins, and fruit trees.
Practical Steps to Discourage Squirrels
1. Remove Food Sources: The first step in deterring squirrels is to eliminate their food sources. Secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids and remove bird feeders or replace them with squirrel-proof models. Keep the ground clear of nuts, berries, and seeds that might attract squirrels.
2. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Squirrels often enter properties by jumping from overhanging trees and shrubs. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from your house to limit their access.
3. Repair Entry Points: Inspect your home for any holes or cracks that could serve as entry points for squirrels. Seal these gaps with sturdy materials. It’s important to ensure that all squirrels are out before sealing entry points to avoid trapping them inside.
4. Use Repellents: There are various commercial repellents available that can deter squirrels. These might include sprays that emit a scent disliked by squirrels or electronic devices that use ultrasonic sound to keep them away.
5. Install Physical Barriers: To protect your garden, use fencing or netting around plants. In areas like attics, consider installing mesh covers over vents and other openings.
When to Hire a Professional
In some cases, DIY methods may not be sufficient to resolve a squirrel problem. Here are some signs that it’s time to call in professional wildlife control:
- Persistent Presence: If you continue to see squirrels despite taking preventative measures, there might be a larger or more entrenched population.
- Damage to Property: If squirrels are causing visible damage to your home, such as chewing on wires or structural wood, professional intervention is advisable to prevent further damage.
- Nesting in the Home: If squirrels have established nests in your attic or walls, removing them can be complicated, requiring professional help.
Maintaining a Squirrel-Free Environment
Keeping squirrels away from your property is an ongoing process. Regularly inspect your home for potential entry points and keep an eye on new developments in squirrel deterrents and repellents. By maintaining a vigilant approach and modifying your strategies as needed, you can effectively manage squirrel problems and minimize damage to your property.
Taking these steps will help you handle squirrel-related issues more effectively, ensuring your property remains safe from the nuisance and potential harm caused by these agile creatures. Looking for professional help with your squirrel issue? Reach out to the pros at Perfection Pest Control.