Squirrels may be cute and fluffy, but they belong to the rodent family. That means they're right up there with mice and rats. Unlike their furry cousins, they don't typically claim the inside of your home as their own; instead, they wreak havoc outside your house and in your garden.
From chewing through attic insulation to digging up flower beds and taking shelter in thick vegetation, these persistent pests are more than just a backyard nuisance. Despite their destructive capabilities, squirrels should be handled with care.
Why Squirrels Are a Problem
Squirrels are relentless. Their constantly growing teeth drive them to gnaw on anything from wood and siding to electrical wiring and roof shingles.
Left unchecked, they can:
- Nest in attics and crawlspaces.
- Dig up gardens and destroy landscaping.
- Chew through roof shingles and vents.
- Create fire hazards by damaging wires.
If you're wondering how to keep squirrels away from your house, it all starts with understanding these furry creatures and knowing the best prevention techniques.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior
If you want to keep squirrels away from your home, garden, and bird feeders, it helps to understand what makes these creatures tick.
Squirrels are always on the lookout for easy food sources. Bird seed, nuts, and even fruit or veggies left out in the open are irresistible to these critters. Bird feeders, in particular, are a significant attraction, and once a squirrel discovers a reliable snack spot, it will keep coming back for more.
But food isn't the only thing that draws squirrels to your yard. These wild animals also seek out shelter and safety, which can be found in dense bushes, leafy trees, and even piles of garden debris. If your property offers both food and a cozy place to hide, you're likely to attract squirrels and possibly other pests as well.
To repel squirrels and protect your space, start by removing or securing anything that might tempt them. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders to keep your bird seed safe, and consider covering plants or garden beds with chicken wire to block access.
Best Ways to Keep Squirrels Away
Removing food sources is key to getting rid of squirrels and preventing them from eating your plants and seeds. Here are proven tips that will help:
1. Eliminate Food Sources
Bird feeders, unsecured trash cans, and pet food are squirrel magnets. Consider:
- Use squirrel-proof bird feeders or other deterrents to keep squirrels away.
- Bring pet food indoors.
- Keep trash can lids tightly sealed.
- Clean up debris frequently, especially fallen fruit.
2. Block Access Points
Squirrels can squeeze through tiny gaps in your home's exterior. If you're trying to figure out how to stop squirrels from running on your roof or entering your attic, inspect your home for:
- Gaps in siding
- Damaged vents
- Loose roof shingles
- Open chimneys
Seal small openings with steel mesh or metal flashing; squirrels can chew through foam or wood. For added protection, install barriers or fencing that extends 8-12 inches into the ground to prevent squirrels from digging underneath.
3. Scare Squirrels Away Humanely
Looking for ways to scare squirrels away without harming them? Try these:
- Motion-activated sprinklers or lights that sense motion and activate automatically will scare away squirrels.
- Ultrasonic devices can deter squirrels.
- Hang shiny objects (like aluminum foil or CDs) in the garden.
- Let your dog out in the yard frequently.
These methods are effective for deterring squirrels and other pests.
What Keeps Squirrels Away for Good?
At Valor Pest Solutions, we inspect your property for squirrel entry points and recommend a personalized action plan. If squirrels are trapped inside, we use humane trapping and relocation techniques to ensure the animals are not harmed. Whether you need sealing, humane trapping, deterrent strategies, or ongoing monitoring, we ensure your home stays squirrel-free.
With Valor Pest Solutions, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your home and garden are protected. Call us today to schedule an inspection and get squirrel control that works before they make themselves at home.
