Feeding squirrels might seem like a harmless activity, but it can lead to significant issues both for homeowners and the local wildlife ecosystem. In Milwaukee, where Skedaddle’s humane wildlife removal services are essential, understanding why you shouldn’t feed squirrels is crucial for maintaining a balanced environment. 

Squirrels have a natural diet that includes nuts, seeds, and fruits, which they forage for in their habitat. When humans intervene by providing food, it disrupts their natural behaviors and can cause them to become overly reliant on these handouts. This dependency can lead to increased squirrel populations in residential areas, resulting in property damage.

Moreover, feeding squirrels can cause them to lose their inherent fear of humans, creating potentially dangerous interactions. By refraining from feeding squirrels, you support a healthier ecosystem and reduce the need for intervention from wildlife control professionals in Milwaukee.

What Do Squirrels Eat?

Squirrels are primarily herbivores, and their diet varies with the seasons. They consume nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, and occasionally insects or small animals. This varied diet helps them adapt to different environments and seasons. However, when humans offer food, squirrels often become dependent on handouts, which can alter their natural foraging behavior and diet.

The Dangers of Feeding Squirrels

Feeding squirrels can lead to several unintended consequences, impacting both the animals and your property. Here are some reasons why feeding squirrels is not recommended:

• Dependency and Health Issues

When squirrels get used to being fed by humans, they may become dependent on these food sources. This dependency can weaken their natural foraging skills, making them less adept at finding food on their own. Moreover, the food provided by humans is often not nutritionally appropriate for squirrels. Junk food, bread, and sugary snacks can cause health problems, including obesity and dental issues.

• Increased Population

Feeding squirrels can lead to an increase in their population. With an abundant and reliable food source, more squirrels can survive and reproduce. While this might sound harmless, an increase in the squirrel population can lead to overgrazing. This overgrazing affects the local flora and disrupts the balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, a higher population of squirrels can lead to more competition for nesting sites, causing stress and aggression among the animals.

• Property Damage

Squirrels are known for their gnawing behavior. Their teeth grow continuously, so they need to chew on various materials to keep their teeth at a manageable length. When squirrels are attracted to human environments due to feeding, they’re more likely to cause property damage. This damage can include chewing on wires, insulation, and wooden structures, leading to costly repairs.

• Spread of Diseases

Squirrels can carry diseases that are transmissible to humans and pets, such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and Lyme disease. By feeding squirrels, you increase the likelihood of close contact, thereby raising the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, leftover food can attract other pests, such as rats and mice, further compounding the problem.

• Altered Behavior

Feeding squirrels can change their natural behavior, making them more aggressive and less fearful of humans. This boldness can lead to more frequent and problematic interactions with people. Aggressive squirrels may invade homes, attics, and garages, seeking shelter and food, which can lead to dangerous encounters and additional property damage.

Professional Wildlife Control: The Skedaddle Approach

Given the potential issues associated with feeding squirrels, it’s clear that humane and effective wildlife control is crucial. Skedaddle specializes in the safe and humane removal of wildlife from residential properties. 

With decades of experience in wildlife control, Skedaddle understands the behaviors and patterns of squirrels. Our team is trained to handle wildlife situations safely and humanely, ensuring that the animals are removed without harm. 

Skedaddle provides a comprehensive range of services tailored to your specific needs. From initial assessment and removal to damage repair and prevention, we cover all aspects of wildlife control. Our holistic approach ensures that once squirrels are removed, they won’t return.

We prioritize humane methods in all our operations. We use techniques that minimize stress and harm to the animals. Our goal is to find a balance where both humans and wildlife can coexist peacefully.

Removal is just one part of the solution. Skedaddle goes the extra mile by implementing prevention strategies to keep squirrels out of your home for good. This includes sealing entry points, installing barriers, and providing guidance on how to make your property less attractive to wildlife.

Our commitment to customer satisfaction sets us apart. We understand the stress and inconvenience that wildlife issues can cause, and we strive to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide ongoing support.

Why DIY Solutions Aren’t Recommended

While it might be tempting to handle a squirrel problem on your own, DIY solutions often fall short. Not only can they be ineffective, but they can also pose risks to both you and the squirrels. 

Without a thorough understanding of squirrel behavior and biology, it’s easy to misjudge the situation. Skedaddle’s team has the expertise needed to assess the problem accurately and implement the most effective solutions.

Handling wildlife can be dangerous. Squirrels may bite or scratch when threatened, and there’s also the risk of disease transmission. Professionals have the necessary protective gear and training to manage these risks safely.

Many DIY methods, such as repellents or traps, provide only temporary relief. Without addressing the root cause of the problem and implementing preventive measures, squirrels are likely to return. Skedaddle’s comprehensive approach ensures long-lasting results.

Finally, certain wildlife removal methods may be illegal or unethical. Skedaddle adheres to all relevant regulations and ethical guidelines, ensuring that our practices are both legal and humane.

The Skedaddle Difference: Ensuring Humane and Effective Wildlife Removal in Milwaukee

At Skedaddle, we believe that effective wildlife control should never come at the expense of animal welfare. Our methods are designed to minimize stress and harm to the animals while providing lasting solutions for homeowners. 

Every wildlife situation is unique, and we tailor our solutions to meet the specific needs of your property. Our team conducts a thorough assessment to identify the extent of the problem and develop a customized plan.

We stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in wildlife control, incorporating state-of-the-art techniques and tools into our practices. This ensures that we deliver the most efficient and humane solutions available.

At Skedaddle, we believe in empowering homeowners with knowledge. We provide guidance on how to prevent future wildlife issues and maintain a safe and wildlife-free environment. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide ongoing support.

Trust is the foundation of our relationship with our clients. We take pride in our reputation for reliability, professionalism, and exceptional service. When you choose Skedaddle, you can trust that you’re in good hands.

Don’t Wait For A Small Problem To Become A Major Issue

Feeding squirrels might seem like a harmless activity, but it can lead to a range of problems for both the animals and your property. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, you can help maintain a healthy balance between humans and wildlife.

When squirrel issues arise, professional intervention is the best course of action. Skedaddle offers comprehensive, humane, and effective wildlife control services that ensure lasting results and peace of mind.

Don’t wait for a small problem to become a major issue. Contact Skedaddle today to schedule an assessment and take the first step toward a safe and squirrel-free home. Your satisfaction and the well-being of the wildlife are our top priorities. Let Skedaddle be your trusted partner in humane wildlife control.