Wildlife Removal Company

Understanding Squirrels: The Agile and Resourceful Creatures

Squirrels are some of the most agile and adaptable creatures in North America, thriving in urban, suburban, and rural environments. While these furry critters are often admired for their energetic behavior and charming antics, they can also cause significant damage to properties when they take up residence in attics or other parts of buildings. In this article, we’ll explore the nature of squirrels, the potential problems they can cause, and how to manage them effectively.

The Role of Squirrels in the Ecosystem

Squirrels are essential to many ecosystems as seed dispersers. By hoarding food for the winter, they unintentionally plant seeds, helping to maintain and grow various plant species. Their feeding habits are a natural part of the cycle of life in forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.

There are two primary types of squirrels: tree squirrels and ground squirrels. Tree squirrels are more commonly found in urban settings, where they create nests (called dreys) in trees or even on rooftops. Ground squirrels tend to be found in open fields or grasslands, where they dig burrows in the earth.

Common Issues Caused by Squirrels

While squirrels play an important role in nature, their presence in residential or commercial properties can lead to a number of issues:

• Property Damage: Squirrels are notorious for chewing on wires, wood, insulation, and even plastic materials. Their need to gnaw is driven by the growth of their teeth, which never stop growing. This behavior can lead to significant damage, including the destruction of electrical wiring, which poses a fire risk.

• Entry into Homes: Squirrels are skilled climbers, able to scale walls and access attics or chimneys. Once inside, they can cause damage by nesting in insulation, chewing on structural components, and leaving behind waste.

• Health Risks: Squirrel droppings and urine can lead to health concerns. In particular, their droppings may carry diseases such as leptospirosis, which can be transmitted to humans and pets through contact with contaminated surfaces.

• Noise and Disturbance: Squirrels often make their presence known through the sounds of scratching, gnawing, and scampering, particularly in attics or between walls. This noise can be a significant disturbance, especially during the early morning or late evening hours.

How to Handle Squirrel Problems

If you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation, it’s crucial to address the problem swiftly to minimize the damage. Here are some steps to effectively manage squirrel issues:

1. Inspect for Entry Points: The first step in handling a squirrel infestation is identifying where they are entering your home. Common entry points include vents, chimneys, gaps around windows and doors, and roofline openings. Once located, these areas should be sealed to prevent further access.

2. Humane Trapping: Squirrels can often be trapped using live traps and relocated safely away from your property. It’s important to ensure traps are checked regularly and that the squirrels are released in a suitable area, far from your home.

3. Professional Wildlife Control: If you’re unsure how to handle a squirrel problem or need assistance with large-scale infestations, consider hiring a wildlife control professional. These experts can not only safely remove squirrels but also repair any damage and implement long-term prevention measures to keep squirrels from returning.

4. Damage Repairs: After the removal process, it’s crucial to fix any damage caused by the squirrels. This may involve repairing insulation, replacing chewed wiring, and ensuring that entry points are securely closed.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations

Once squirrels have been removed from your property, taking steps to prevent future intrusions is essential. Here are some preventive measures:

• Trim Trees and Branches: Squirrels can easily jump from tree branches onto roofs. By trimming trees and branches near your home, you reduce the chance of squirrels accessing your attic or chimney.

• Install Squirrel-Proofing: Adding wire mesh or other squirrel-proof barriers around vents, chimneys, and rooflines can block access. Make sure any gaps or holes in your roofing or siding are sealed securely.

• Remove Food Sources: Squirrels are drawn to food, so keep bird feeders, pet food, and trash bins sealed. Additionally, if you have fruit trees or nut-bearing plants, be sure to clean up fallen fruit or nuts regularly.

Conclusion

While squirrels are fascinating creatures, their ability to invade homes and businesses can cause significant problems if not managed correctly. By understanding squirrel behavior, addressing infestations promptly, and implementing preventive measures, you can protect your property from damage and ensure your home remains safe and secure. Whether you need professional wildlife control or simply want to take proactive steps, dealing with squirrel issues early is key to preventing long-term damage.