How to Get Rid of Squirrels: Effective and Humane Tips
Squirrels are cute and fun to watch, but they can be a serious nuisance when they start invading your property. Squirrels can cause damage to gardens, homes, and vehicles, and they can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans and other animals. So, if you’re experiencing a squirrel problem, it’s essential to address it as soon as possible. In this article, we’ll provide you with effective and humane tips on how to get rid of squirrels.
Exclusion
Exclusion is considered the most effective way to solve squirrel problems. The goal of exclusion is to prevent squirrels from entering your home or garden. You’ll need to inspect your property thoroughly to identify all the entry points that squirrels may use to gain access. Common entry points include gaps in the roof, vents, and other openings.
To seal these entry points, you can use materials such as wire mesh, caulking, and foam insulation. Be sure to check the quality of the materials you use as squirrels can easily chew through weak or flimsy materials. It’s also important to note that you shouldn’t seal off openings that squirrels may be using as exits as this may result in trapping them inside your home.
Habitat Modifications
Another effective way to get rid of squirrels is to make your property less attractive to them. You can achieve this by making modifications to the habitat that they find appealing. This includes removing potential food sources such as bird feeders, fruit trees, and vegetable gardens. You may also want to trim or prune trees and bushes to remove potential nesting sites.
Ensure that you keep your garbage cans and bins sealed tightly to prevent squirrels from accessing them. You can also prevent squirrels from entering your attic or roof by installing squirrel guards, which are essentially metal cages that fit over vents or openings that provide access to your home.
Traps
Humane traps are an effective way to catch squirrels. These traps can be purchased or rented from a local hardware store. The most common type of humane trap for squirrels is the cage trap. This type of trap allows you to capture the squirrel without harming it. Once you’ve caught the squirrel, you’ll need to release it quickly and safely into a park or forested area that is far away from your property.
If you do decide to use a trap, it’s important to monitor it regularly to ensure that you release the squirrel as soon as possible. It’s also recommended that you use bait to attract squirrels to the trap. Peanut butter, grain, and fruits like apples are great bait options.
Poison
Using poison to kill squirrels is an inhumane way to solve a squirrel problem. The poison may also pose risks to other animals that come into contact with it. Poisoning squirrels can be illegal in some areas and is not recommended. If you opt for poison, you may end up with a carcass somewhere on your property, which can cause unpleasant smells and attract other pests.
Repellents
Using natural repellents is a safe and effective way to deter squirrels from your property. There are many natural repellents you can use, including vinegar, cayenne pepper, and predator urine. These repellents work by creating strong odors or tastes that squirrels dislike. You can apply repellents directly to areas where squirrels are causing problems, such as your garden or roof area.
It’s important to note that repellents need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain or heavy wind. When using repellents, it’s recommended that you wear gloves and avoid getting the repellent on your skin or eyes to avoid irritation.
Professional Help
If you’ve tried various DIY solutions and you’re still struggling with a squirrel problem, it may be time to contact a professional squirrel removal service. Many professionals offer humane trapping, exclusion, and repellent solutions. Be sure to choose a reliable service provider by checking their reviews and credentials. The cost of professional squirrel removal can vary depending on the extent of the problem and the solutions implemented.
Conclusion
Getting rid of squirrels can be a challenging task, but it’s important to address the problem with humane and effective solutions. Exclusion and habitat modification are the best ways to prevent squirrels from accessing your property. Humane trapping and natural repellents are also effective solutions to consider. Avoid using poison, as it’s inhumane and can pose risks to other animals.
Remember to prioritize the safety of both humans and animals in formulating a plan to get rid of squirrels. If DIY solutions aren’t working, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional squirrel removal service. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a squirrel-free property in no time.
