Understanding the squirrel lifespan is important for effective wildlife removal in Ottawa. These small mammals typically live around six to twelve years in the wild, but their lifespans can be significantly shorter due to predators, disease, and environmental factors.

If you find a squirrel nest on your property, it’s crucial to contact Skedaddle’s professionals. We are experienced in safely and humanely getting rid of squirrel nests. Our team specializes in wildlife removal in Ottawa, ensuring that all methods adhere to humane practices while effectively addressing the problem. 

Whether you’re concerned about property damage or the health risks associated with squirrels, our reliable services are designed to provide peace of mind. We prioritize not only the safety of your home but also the well-being of the animals involved. With our expertise, you can trust that your wildlife issues will be handled efficiently and responsibly.

Understanding Squirrel Lifespan

The average lifespan of a squirrel varies depending on the species and environmental factors. In the wild, a squirrel’s life is fraught with dangers such as predators, disease, and accidents. Grey squirrels, for example, typically live about 6 to 12 years in the wild. However, many don’t survive past their first year due to these numerous hazards. On the other hand, squirrels in captivity can live up to 20 years because they are protected from these threats.

The Eastern grey squirrel is one of the most common types found in North America, especially in urban areas. They can adapt well to city life, but their survival rate in these environments can still be low due to traffic, lack of food, and other human-related dangers. Understanding these factors helps explain why they are always on alert and constantly storing food for future use.

In addition to the Eastern grey squirrel, the red squirrel is another species commonly seen across North America. These smaller cousins typically have a shorter lifespan, averaging around 3 to 5 years in the wild. Red squirrels are notorious for their territorial behaviour, often seen vigorously defending their food caches from intruders. Despite their smaller size, these squirrels are just as adept at surviving harsh conditions through their innate agility and resourcefulness.

Interestingly, seasonal changes also play a crucial role in the lifespan of squirrels. During winter months, when food is scarce and temperatures plummet, they rely heavily on their stored food supplies and their ability to hunker down in well-insulated nests. This period can be particularly challenging for younger squirrels who haven’t had enough time to build up their reserves, further impacting their survival rates.

Overall, while squirrels may appear to lead simple lives as they scurry about, their survival is a complex interplay of environmental adaptations, innate behaviours, and constant threats from their surroundings. By understanding these dynamics, we can better appreciate why humane and professional wildlife removal is essential when addressing squirrel-related issues on properties.

Squirrel Behaviour and Its Impact on Homes

Squirrels are known for their agile, curious nature. While this makes them entertaining to watch, it also means they can be a nuisance if they decide to make your home their own. Squirrels often seek shelter in attics, chimneys, and walls, especially during colder months. Here’s why their presence can be problematic:

Firstly, squirrels have strong teeth that never stop growing, which means they need to gnaw on things constantly to keep them trimmed. They can chew through wood, insulation, and even electrical wires, posing a fire hazard. This destructive behaviour can lead to significant repair costs for homeowners.

Secondly, squirrels are prolific nest builders. They use materials like leaves, twigs, and insulation from your home to create cozy nests. These nests can block vents, cause structural damage, and even create fire hazards.

Lastly, squirrels can be noisy. Their scurrying, scratching, and chattering can disrupt your peace, especially if they’ve taken up residence in your attic or walls. The noise can be particularly disturbing during the early morning or late evening when they are most active.

The Challenges of Removing Squirrel Nests

If you’ve discovered a nest in your home, your first instinct might be to handle the situation yourself. However, DIY removal is not recommended for several reasons. Squirrels can become aggressive if they feel threatened, and they may bite or scratch. Additionally, improper handling can result in harm to the squirrel or even legal repercussions, as some squirrel species are protected by law.

Attempting to remove a nest without proper knowledge and equipment can also cause more damage to your home. Squirrels are resourceful and can create multiple entry points, making it challenging to ensure all access points are sealed. This is why professional wildlife removal services are crucial.

At Skedaddle, we specialize in humane and effective wildlife removal. Our team of experts is trained to handle squirrel infestations safely and efficiently. We don’t trap or relocate squirrels, as this can be stressful and harmful to the animals. Instead, we use exclusion techniques to ensure they are safely removed and can’t return.

Why Skedaddle Is the Best Choice for Wildlife Removal in Ottawa

Choosing Skedaddle for wildlife removal comes with several benefits. Our approach is humane and eco-friendly, ensuring the safety of both your home and the squirrels. Here’s why Skedaddle stands out:

With years of experience in wildlife removal, our team has the expertise and skills to handle any situation effectively. We understand squirrel behaviour and use this insight to implement the best removal strategies. Our humane approach ensures that squirrels are not harmed during the removal process; we use exclusion techniques to encourage them to leave and prevent them from returning. 

We don’t just remove the squirrels; we also inspect your home for potential entry points and seal them, ensuring a comprehensive solution that keeps your home squirrel-free. Handling wildlife can be risky, but by choosing Skedaddle, you can rest assured that the job will be done safely and professionally. Our team uses the latest equipment and follows stringent safety protocols to provide you with safety and peace of mind.

Tips for Preventing Squirrel Infestations

While professional squirrel removal is essential for dealing with existing infestations, there are steps you can take to prevent squirrels from entering your home in the first place. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Secure Trash Bins: Squirrels are attracted to food sources, so make sure your trash bins are securely closed and stored away from your home.
• Trim Trees and Bushes: Overhanging branches can provide easy access to your roof. Regularly trim trees and bushes near your home to eliminate potential entry points.
• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for gaps, holes, and other potential entry points. Seal them with durable materials to prevent squirrels from gaining access.
• Install Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders: If you enjoy feeding birds, consider using squirrel-proof feeders to prevent them from stealing food and becoming a nuisance.

The Importance of Professional Wildlife Removal

Attempting to remove squirrels on your own can be dangerous and ineffective. Squirrels are agile and can easily evade capture, leading to prolonged infestations and increased damage to your home. Professional wildlife removal services like Skedaddle offer a safe, efficient, and humane solution.

Our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle squirrel infestations of any size. We use proven techniques to ensure that squirrels are removed without harm and that your home is protected from future invasions. By choosing Skedaddle, you’re investing in the safety and integrity of your home.

A Humane Solution

Squirrels may be fascinating creatures, but their presence in your home can lead to significant problems. Understanding their lifespan and behaviour is crucial for homeowners who want to protect their property. While DIY methods may seem tempting, professional wildlife removal services like Skedaddle provide the expertise and peace of mind you need.

Don’t wait until the damage is done. If you suspect a squirrel infestation, contact Skedaddle today. Our team is ready to help you reclaim your home and ensure it remains squirrel-free.