Keeping Squirrels Away From Your Home

Squirrels become very active in the spring and fall. The animals' behaviour is entertaining most of the time, but it can become destructive at other times. When squirrels become so engrossed in mating, nesting, and storing food for the winter, experts in wildlife control in Barrie explain the animals will stop at almost nothing to find secure shelter, and your house is the perfect example of security.

What Attracts Squirrels To Your House?

Many things may attract squirrels to your property. However, regardless of the season, there are likely three driving forces behind a squirrel's urge to be near or even inside your home.

1. Food and Water

All living things need to eat and drink. As foragers, squirrels are constantly searching for food and water. The animal must stockpile enough food to survive the harsh winter months. Your property might offer an abundance of food, even if you are unaware. For example, if you garden, squirrels may pick your vegetables. If you have pets you feed outside, squirrels might steal their food. Finally, if you feed birds, squirrels might help themselves to the seed in your feeders.  As for water, squirrels might find a leaky spigot on the side of the house. If you have a sprinkler system, the animal might even time when to arrive to experience the cool mist and refreshing drink.

2. Shelter

Your property might also provide shelter for squirrels. Squirrels are small prey animals, so they like to stick to areas that offer cover from flying predators. The animals also like tall grass, brush piles, and old logs. If your yard is relatively maintained, a squirrel might try to find ways into a crawlspace, attic, or garage.

3. Access

Finally, squirrels might be attracted to your home because it is accessible. If you have tall trees, big bushy shrubs, and other things around your house, squirrels have a highway they can follow to get close to the structure. With enough coverage, a squirrel can work on vulnerable spaces along the roof or foundation until they find a way inside.

How Can You Keep Squirrels Away?

Squirrels seem undeterred by physical barriers like fences. Therefore, because the animals are such great climbers and relatively excellent jumpers, trying to barricade them out of your yard is not going to work. If you want to keep squirrels away from your property, you need to eliminate access to the three things that are most important to them: food, water, and shelter.

1. Eliminate Food Sources

The best thing you can do to prevent squirrels on or around your property is to eliminate all potential food sources. You can still plant gardens and feed birds, but you should protect your gardens by putting cages over them or growing them in a greenhouse. When feeding birds, it is best to only put the feeders out for a little while each day. Also, if you continue to feed the birds, make sure to clean up any fallen seeds.

2. Trim Trees

All trees around your house need to be trimmed. You should not have any overhanging branches. Try to provide eight feet between tree branches and your house's roof.

3. Seal Entrances

You will also need to scour your property, looking for any potential access points. If you find loose crawlspace covers, shingles, soffits, or anything else, fix them. Squirrels can fit through small openings. Before you seal your property, ensure there are no animals inside your home. Call a wildlife control service to inspect the property.

Why Should You Hire a Wildlife Control Service?

Squirrel removal is challenging. It would always be best if you did not attempt DIY removals because they are dangerous for you and the animals. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control and schedule a home visit for help.