Squirrel Control: How to Deter Squirrels

Aug 23, 2024 | DIY Wildlife Prevention, Wildlife

Squirrels are a common sight in Georgia, often seen scampering through trees and parks. While they can be charming to watch, these bushy-tailed rodents can become a significant nuisance when they invade your home and yard. This blog will discuss the common types of squirrels in Georgia, the hazards they pose, and effective squirrel control methods to deter them. We will also provide tips on what to do if you find a squirrel inside your home.

Common Types of Squirrels in Georgia

Georgia is home to several species of squirrels, but the most common types that homeowners encounter are the Eastern Gray Squirrel, the Fox Squirrel, and the Southern Flying Squirrel.

1. Eastern Gray Squirrel: These are the most prevalent squirrels in Georgia. They are easily recognizable by their gray fur and bushy tails. They are active during the day and are often found in both urban and rural areas.
2. Fox Squirrel: Larger than the Eastern Gray Squirrel, Fox Squirrels have a mix of gray, brown, and orange fur. They are less common but are known to inhabit areas with large trees and open spaces.
3. Southern Flying Squirrel: These small, nocturnal squirrels are less commonly seen due to their nighttime activity. They have a unique membrane that allows them to glide between trees. Despite their name, they don’t actually fly.

Hazards Posed by Squirrels

While squirrels may seem harmless, they can cause a range of problems for homeowners:

1. Structural Damage: Squirrels are notorious chewers. They can gnaw through wooden structures, insulation, and even electrical wiring, which can pose a fire hazard. They often enter homes through vulnerable spots like attics, eaves, and vents.
2. Garden and Yard Damage: Squirrels love to dig, which can lead to damage in gardens and lawns. They may uproot plants and bulbs, and their constant foraging can create unsightly holes in your yard.
3. Health Risks: Squirrels can carry diseases and parasites, such as fleas and ticks, which can spread to humans and pets. Additionally, their droppings can harbor harmful pathogens.

What to Do If You Find a Squirrel Inside Your Home

Discovering a squirrel inside your home can be startling. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Calm: Squirrels are likely more scared of you than you are of them. Avoid startling the animal, as it may cause it to panic and injure itself or cause damage.
2. Isolate the Squirrel: If possible, close off the room where the squirrel is located to prevent it from roaming further into your home.
3. Provide an Exit: Open a window or door to allow the squirrel an easy escape route. Leave the room and give it time to find its way out.
4. Call a Professional: If the squirrel doesn’t leave on its own or if it’s trapped in an inaccessible area, contact a wildlife control company for safe and humane removal.

Tips to Prevent Squirrels from Entering Your Home and Yard

Preventing a squirrel infestation is much easier than dealing with one. Here are some effective strategies for squirrel control:

1. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any potential entry points, such as gaps in the roof, vents, and chimneys. Use materials like metal mesh or hardware cloth to seal these openings, as squirrels can chew through softer materials.
2. Trim Tree Branches: Squirrels often access roofs and attics via overhanging tree branches. Trim branches that are close to your home to prevent easy access.
3. Secure Food Sources: Squirrels are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Keep bird feeders away from your home and use squirrel-proof feeders. Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving pet food outside.
4. Protect Your Garden: Use fencing or netting to protect gardens and flower beds. You can also plant squirrel-repellent plants like daffodils and alliums, which squirrels tend to avoid.
5. Use Squirrel Traps: If you’re dealing with a persistent squirrel problem, consider using live traps to capture and relocate them. Make sure to follow local regulations and guidelines for humane wildlife removal.
6. Install Squirrel Deterrents: Devices like motion-activated sprinklers and ultrasonic repellents can help deter squirrels from your property. These tools are especially useful in gardens and yards.
7. Keep Your Attic Clean: Squirrels often nest in attics. Regularly clean and declutter your attic space, and store items in sealed containers to make it less attractive to these rodents.

Why Professional Squirrel Removal is Important

While DIY methods can be effective for minor squirrel issues, professional wildlife control services are recommended for larger infestations or if the squirrels have caused significant damage. Wildlife control companies have the expertise and equipment to safely and humanely remove squirrels from your home. They can also provide advice on preventing future infestations and repair any damage caused by the animals.

If you’re facing a squirrel problem, don’t hesitate to search for “squirrel removal near me” to find a reliable wildlife control company in Georgia. Professional services ensure that the job is done thoroughly and humanely, providing peace of mind and a squirrel-free home.

Squirrels, while fascinating creatures, can become problematic when they invade our homes and yards. By understanding the common types of squirrels in Georgia and the potential hazards they pose, homeowners can take proactive steps to prevent infestations. Remember, effective squirrel pest control involves a combination of exclusion, deterrents, and, if necessary, professional wildlife removal. Keep your home safe and secure by addressing any signs of squirrel activity promptly and maintaining preventive measures year-round.