You may have seen them running around your yard, collecting nuts to store, or scurrying up trees. But if you see one in your house then you’ll need to learn about certain squirrel control methods. From gnawing walls to shorting electrical, squirrels can do a lot of damage to your home. Learn what you can do to help prevent that from happening.

Squirrel Detection

It’s easy to spot a squirrel in your yard, but you may not see them right away if they get in your attic. You’ll probably hear them first. Squirrels seeking shelter and warmth may find your garage and attic the perfect place to nest. You’ll hear them rustling around or you may, unfortunately, notice the lack of power in your home from the damage they do to the wiring.

Squirrel Prevention

Keeping squirrels out of your home is easier than trying to get rid of them. Like any animal, they’re most likely looking for food and shelter, so you should focus on making this more difficult for them so they look elsewhere.

• Remove food sources. Squirrels dine on nuts, seeds, and berries, so if you’re feeding the birds or have plump fruit on your plants, then there’s a greater chance squirrels will frequent your yard. You can try a squirrel-proof bird feeder and fencing vulnerable plants with mesh or a dome.
• Limit shelter options. Tall, shady trees, especially ones that bear fruit and nuts, are a squirrel’s paradise. If you have a squirrel problem, you may want to consider getting rid of the tree or taking other preventive measures. You’ll also want to make sure your chimney is screened and there are no openings in the roof or attic where they can get in.
• Gutter guards. Not only do they help keep your gutters clear of leaves, but they also help prevent squirrels from climbing up your gutters and gaining access to your attic.
• Scent repellents. Various products claim to repel a few garden-ruining pests, like rabbits and deer. They usually smell like the urine of predatory animals like foxes or coyotes. These products need to be applied regularly for best results.
• Faux predators. Try tricking the squirrels into thinking your yard is protected by predators, like snakes, foxes, or hawks with an artificial figure. However, if these dummies don’t move or make any sound, they won’t be as effective.
• Harassment. Make a habit of chasing squirrels out of your yard. Allow your active dog to freely roam the fenced-in area. Your regular presence and shooing will make the area less idyllic.

Squirrel Control Methods

If you find squirrels have chewed their way into your attic or taken residence in your garage, there are ways to get them out.

1. Trapping. First, check your local laws on trapping any animal. Determine if there are any restrictions on where you can release them. Use a trap designed for squirrels or smaller animals. Bait it with goodies, like fruit and nuts. Once caught, release them far enough away from your home that they’re not likely to return.
2. Hunting. You’ll need to check your local laws on any regulations for this as well.
3. Professional pest control. If the squirrel population is out of control in your area, and they’ve done considerable damage to your home, it’s best to contact a professional to help.

Contact Cardinal Pest for more information on squirrel control and how you can help prevent problems in and around your home.