Squirrels may look cute when they're leaping from tree to tree, but they can quickly turn into a nuisance around your home. Squirrels are a type of rodent, and like all other rodents, they can cause significant damage to homes and gardens. From chewing on siding and wiring to digging up gardens and raiding bird feeders, squirrels are resourceful creatures that can cause costly damage if left unchecked.
Squirrels are attracted to fruit, veggies, and plants, and their eating habits can lead to significant losses in gardens as they eat and damage produce. The presence of natural predators or even a dog can help deter squirrels from your property. Combining proven strategies is the most effective approach to prevent these furry intruders and protect your property.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior
To effectively keep squirrels away from your home and garden, it is helpful to first understand what motivates these clever creatures. Squirrels are always on the lookout for easy food sources, such as bird seed, nuts, and even fruits or vegetables growing in your garden. Bird feeders are especially tempting, as they offer a steady supply of seeds that squirrels find irresistible. In addition to food, squirrels seek out safe, sheltered spots—like the branches of trees or the cozy corners of attics—where they can build nests and raise their young.
What Keeps Squirrels Away From Your Home?
The best way to keep squirrels away is to combine prevention with deterrents.
Squirrels are clever and determined, but they're also opportunistic. If food and shelter are readily available, they'll stick around. Stay one step ahead by removing easy access points.
- Seal entry points around your roofline and vents.
- Trim tree branches so they don't provide a bridge to your home.
- Remove food sources like open trash bins, birdseed spills, or unsecured gardens.
- Inspect your home regularly and look for chewed wood, droppings, or scratching sounds in your attic.
By securing your home, you eliminate some of the easiest entry points squirrels exploit. If squirrels do manage to find their way inside, professional squirrel removal services can help you get rid of these pests and other rodents.
How Do You Deter Squirrels in Your Yard?
The best way to deter squirrels from your yard is to make it less appealing. Some of the best ways to keep squirrels away from your yard include:
- Scare tactics: Motion-activated sprinklers, shiny objects, or even decoy owls can help keep squirrels away.
- Natural repellents: Spices like cayenne pepper, garlic, or peppermint oil around gardens can discourage digging and chewing.
- Protect bird feeders: Use squirrel-proof feeders or place them at least 10 feet away from trees and fences.
These steps not only protect your plants and feeders but also encourage squirrels to move along to easier yards.
How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Garden
If you're a gardener, you know the frustration of watching squirrels dig up bulbs or nibble on tomatoes.
- Row covers or netting protect vulnerable plants.
- Raised garden beds with fencing make access difficult.
- Companion planting with strong-smelling herbs (like mint or rosemary) deters squirrels.
- Live traps are a humane way to capture and relocate squirrels.
Squirrels are especially attracted to fruit and veggies in the garden, so that extra protection may be needed. Sprays can be applied to plants, and spraying natural deterrents like cayenne pepper or peppermint oil can help keep squirrels away.
Call Valor Pest Solutions for Lasting Relief
Squirrels can be stubborn, but you don't have to fight them alone. At Valor Pest Solutions, we specialize in humane and effective wildlife control. Our team knows exactly how to ward off squirrels, discourage them from coming back, and protect your home from damage.
If you're ready to finally keep squirrels away from your house and yard for good, contact Valor Pest Solutions today.
