Gray Squirrels

The Gray Squirrel can be found throughout Georgia.

Identification

• Predominantly gray in color with white markings
• Short, thick fur and bushy tail
• Weighs 1 to 1.5 pounds

Environment

• Spend the majority of their time in trees foraging for food
• Active year round, but most active in the morning and evenings on dry days
• Often make nests in attics or garages for warmth, shelter, and food

Threats

• Often invade bird feeders, garbage cans, and attics
• Can cause considerable damage outdoors to electrical and telephone cables
• Can cause damage to contents of attic including wood, insulation, wires, and storage boxes.
• Urine and dropping can contaminate insulation and other areas of the attic.

Treatment

• Locate and seal off any entry points 1/4″ or larger to prevent squirrels and other rodents from entering the home.
• Caulk any openings or crevices that can be used as entry points.
• Provide an exclusive barrier on roofline
• Set traps out
• To keep squirrels from using utility wires as a way to your attic, slit a 2-foot section of 2-inch PVC pipe lengthwise and slip it over the wire. This makes squirrels unable to maintain their footing when the pipe rotates.
• Cut back tree limbs that are close to your structure.
• Squirrel removal is not recommended for amateurs.  Call Northwest Exterminating for squirrel removal.