Squirrels jumping from tree branch to branch is common in most neighbourhoods. The dextrous animals use trees as shelter and a food source, so it is unsurprising to see them nesting and climbing in them. Still, some homeowners do not like the playful critters scurrying about on their oak trees. You can protect your trees by calling squirrel removal in Coquitlam.

While trees are a natural part of a squirrel’s habitat, and the animal plays a role in propagating the plants, they can also damage and stunt a tree’s growth. A squirrel’s claws can tear away bark — the natural protection for trees — and its urine and feces can cause damage to sensitive parts of the tree or help spread fungal growths, slowing tree maturity.

Oak trees are deciduous mast-producing trees, drawing the attention of many omnivorous and herbivorous animals. To protect your trees, you must understand why and how animals like squirrels need them.

Why Squirrels Are Attracted to Oak Trees

Why are squirrels attracted to specific tree species more than others? Do squirrels eat oak trees? Yes, to an extent. Squirrels eat the mast — fruit of forest trees, such as nuts and seeds — produced by oaks.

Oak trees produce acorns, a critical part of a squirrel’s diet. In the fall, acorns are the primary source of the animal’s diet. Still, not all the acorns wind up in a squirrel’s belly; some the animal hoards and buries.

Homeowners must understand that squirrels and trees have a symbiotic relationship; the trees provide shelter and food for the squirrels, and in return —though not in a conscious way — the squirrels bury and plant their seeds. Because of the interdependent relationship, it is not wise to expel all squirrels, nor is it entirely possible in most cases.

Most properties have other structures or vegetation near trees that permit access to tree trunks or branches. Sometimes, the structures aren’t in your yard but your neighbours. Still, if there are many squirrels in your tree and it is clearly causing a problem, you have options.

How To Keep Squirrels Out of Your Oak Trees

When learning how to keep squirrels out of oak trees, you must realize you are fighting a nearly impossible battle. Squirrels live in trees, and they are agile and capable creatures. The best you can do as a property owner is try to make access as difficult as possible. If a squirrel feels like a specific tree is too challenging to mount and does not provide a quick escape route or easy access to food, it may give up on the particular tree.

To protect your oak trees, you want to use metal collars and avoid planting or installing anything near the tree that can act as an access point. When tall enough, collars don’t allow squirrels to get traction or grip on the tree, potentially keeping them off and away.

If birdfeeders, fences, or other tall plantings or structures are close enough to the oak, they will act as a bridge. The tree must have at least 9ft between it and any other structures. Squirrels can jump horizontally about 9ft and vertically about 4ft.

Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control: Trusted Squirrel Removal in Coquitlam

Keeping squirrels out of oak trees and other tree species is challenging. The animals naturally nest and forage in tree canopies. Still, it is possible to reduce squirrel traffic in oaks with persistence and patience. Contact Skedaddle Human Wildlife Control to schedule a property assessment and learn how to protect your trees and limit wildlife damage.