Squirrels love turning Waldorf homes and gardens into their playgrounds. It's cute until it's not. Squirrel activity can quickly become a nuisance, from raiding bird feeders to gnawing on electrical wires.
In this guide, we share insights on squirrel behavior, how to deal with their droppings, and, most importantly, how to keep them out of your yard. We've got some nifty tricks up our sleeves, and if things get too hairy, our friendly wildlife pest control experts can always save the day.
Squirrel Behavior And Biology: Insights For Effective Control
Squirrels, though adorable, can quickly become a nuisance when they invade our homes and gardens. Understanding their behavior and biology is a smart strategy for effective control and coexistence.
Squirrels belong to the Sciuridae family, encompassing tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, flying squirrels, and prairie dogs. Tree squirrels, with their bushy tails, are the most common species in urban areas. They are omnivores, with a diet ranging from nuts, seeds, and fruits to small insects and bird eggs.
Squirrels reproduce twice a year, in late winter and summer, with a typical litter size of two to eight offspring. Their nests, called dreys, are constructed high up in trees using twigs, leaves, and moss. Understanding their nesting habits is key when managing squirrel control, as it helps locate potential entry points into your home.
Squirrel-Related Health Concerns: Handling Droppings And Disease Risks
While squirrels may appear harmless, their droppings pose health risks to humans. Squirrel feces can transmit illnesses such as salmonella and leptospirosis, which can cause severe gastrointestinal issues.
When cleaning up squirrel droppings, wear gloves and a mask to avoid direct contact and inhalation of airborne particles. Use a damp cloth to wipe the affected area, then disinfect thoroughly.
Tips For Squirrel-Proofing Your Yard: Protecting Your Home And Garden
Preventing squirrels from infiltrating your yard is your first line of defense against potential home invasions. Here are some effective tips for controlling squirrels:
- Squirrels are notorious for raiding bird feeders. Sprinkle cayenne pepper or safflower seeds into your bird feeder to deter squirrels. Use squirrel-proof feeders designed with mechanisms that prevent them from accessing the seeds.
- Inspect your home for potential entry points, such as gaps in the roofline or cracks in walls. Seal these openings with durable materials to keep squirrels out.
- Trim branches that overhang your roof to prevent squirrels from leaping onto your home. Keep bushes and trees near windows trimmed to reduce access points.
- Certain plants like daffodils, marigolds, and alliums are known to repel squirrels. Plant them strategically around your garden to deter these critters.
- Squirrels are attracted to food waste. Use tightly sealed trash bins to minimize their food sources.
- Plant or place aromatic plants like peppermint and pungent peppers around your property. Their strong scent will discourage squirrels.
Squirrels will make their way onto your property one way or another, hopefully just passing through. If you don't mind their antics (and it's not a nuisance), you can give them their own spot to enjoy at the furthest edge of your property. When all else fails, it's time to call in professionals like Mike's Pest, Termite, and Wildlife Control to get rid of the squirrels.
Squirrel Control Done Right: Contact The Experts Today!
Our professional squirrel removal services prioritize humane removal methods that ensure safe relocation without harm. Attempting to handle a significant infestation alone can be ineffective, often leading to recurring problems.
Let Mike's Pest, Termite, and Wildlife Control take care of your squirrel problem with effective and humane treatment solutions. Contact us to schedule an inspection and keep these troublemakers in check.