Red squirrels are relatively common, and as the name implies, they are identifiable from their reddish fur. A red squirrel infestation can be just as destructive as any other squirrel infestation, requiring professional squirrel removal.

Homeowners must be vigilant to reduce their risks of wildlife problems, especially invasions. Squirrels and other animals pose safety, health, and fire hazards when they get too comfortable around a residence. To limit risks, homeowners should incorporate preventative measures — Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control can help teach homeowners prevention strategies and aid in wildlife removal when necessary.

Understanding a Red Squirrel Infestation

Red squirrels are native to the northern half of North America, from the Rockies through Quebec. They are active from spring to late fall, settling down in the winter. The animal’s diet comprises mainly buds, nuts, and pine seeds, but they also eat the occasional insect and small animal. 

Squirrels are foragers and hoarders, typically storing two seasons’ worth of food in multiple cool and moist locations. Unfortunately, residential attic spaces offer the ideal sites for hoarding and nesting.

Learning how to get rid of squirrels in Ottawa is more challenging than preventing them in the first place. Uncover the mysteries of squirrel infestations and the motivations behind them.

1. Signs of an Infestation

Squirrel infestations can go unnoticed for a while. The animal has a sleep-wake cycle similar to humans, so noises are often limited to early morning and evening. If you are awake when the squirrels’ chatter, an infestation is evident, especially with red squirrels because they are loud and bird-like, rarely stopping for a breath, it seems.

Less obvious signs of an infestation may include squirrel droppings around your foundation or roof, stripped tree bark, disheveled garden beds, and holes in soffits or vents. Homeowners may also find chewed wiring in or around their houses. 

2. Motivation Behind Infestations

A red squirrel infestation often signals the animal has found everything it needs to survive on or around your property: shelter, food, and water. Typically, the only reason animals will nest near humans is when motivated to do so through their needs being met. To remove the squirrels from the property and keep them away, homeowners must eliminate easy access to all three survival needs.

3. Infestation Prevention

How to prevent squirrels is simple enough: you want to eliminate access to food and water. If you have bird feeders in your yard, consider removing them; the same with bird baths. If you do not want to eliminate items for birds, you should invest in squirrel-proof feeders.

Squirrels will also search your trash for food. You can eliminate access to garbage by storing bags in proper receptacles with tight-fitting lids. Store your garbage cans in a locked shed or garage until garbage day.

Finally, hire Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to inspect your property, looking for possible entry points and vulnerabilities in your home. The company can help you secure your property and reduce the risks of squirrel damage.

4. Dangers of an Infestation

Red squirrels contribute to the biodiversity of the local environment. The animal disperses seeds and creates a place for nutritious fungi to develop, feeding local plants. Unfortunately, not everything the squirrel does is so symbiotic.

Squirrels can damage trees by peeling bark to build nests. They can also create fire hazards when nesting indoors. The animal can also transmit disease through bites, scratches, urine, and feces.

Hiring Humane Animal Control for an Infestation

A red squirrel infestation is problematic. Between property damage and fire risks, homeowners must act fast when they suspect they have an infestation. 

Our team in Ottawa is experienced in handling squirrel invasions. We will find a way to remove the rodents from your home in a safe and effective way. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to schedule a property inspection and learn what the service can do to protect your home and property.