Squirrels
Grey squirrels are invasive pests, not native to the UK.
As their numbers rise... so does the damage they cause. These highly adaptable and invasive species are also responsible for the decline in native red squirrel numbers.
Although grey squirrels are widely appreciated by many, there are times when the control of grey squirrels is necessary.
This includes damage or potential damage to property. In the wild, control of the grey squirrel is required where they are impacting on our native wildlife, in particular the red squirrel.
Squirrels in the loft/attic?
Lofts are ideal environments for squirrels.
Noises in the loft can be an indication that rodents or other wildlife may be living in your roof space.
Noises should be investigated promptly.
A squirrel’s nest and droppings become ideal breeding sites for insects, which may then carry bugs and diseases into your home.
Squirrels are most active before sunrise, especially in winter. Their peak activity is between 4-5 hours before sunrise.
Signs of a Squirrels infestation:
Scratching and rustling sound from your attic or a wall cavity
Droppings in the loft
If there is a smell of urine in the loft area might indicate the infestation has been going on some time
Spotting lots of squirrels around your property, particularly near your roof or on fences
Discovering damage garden plants
Nuts being stolen from bird feeders, or the feeders being knocked over
Bark being stripped from trees in your garden, particularly from young trees
Nesting in nearby trees (Dreys)
Divots in your lawn/grass
Holes in vents or damage to your insulation foam
Holes in fascias/soffits, or disrupted roof tiles
Outside, squirrels will strip trees of their bark. Within a loft space many squirrels will turn their attention to the wooden beams and begin to gnaw them.
Over time, they can weaken structural integrity and cause serious damage. As well as chewing woodwork, they will also chew electrical cables, and tear up fiberglass insulation.
Squirrels can be removed by catching them in traps, although great care needs to be taken when handling cages with live squirrels, as they are likely to bite and scratch.
It is illegal to release grey squirrels back into the wild, once caught in a cage, they must be destroyed humanely. Any evidence of inhumane killing will result in legal action and fines.
(This applies to GREY squirrels ONLY, red squirrels must be released into the wild.)
Delta Pest Control carries out the professional treatment of grey squirrels using mechanical traps or baiting. Our pest technicians are fully qualified and trained.
RSPCA representatives recommend that you hire pest control experts or vets to carry out the killing, as most people will be unable to do it without causing unnecessary harm and suffering.
How to Deter Squirrels from your Property
Delta Pest Control can provide tailored guidance and advice for individual properties.
But here are a few of our ‘Top Tips’….
Cut back or remove (where possible) any tree branches that hang over your property. The branches make an ideal bridge for squirrels to cross and gain easy access to your property
Also consider any cables, or washing lines that may provide access. Squirrels have excellent balance, and can leap
Check your property thoroughly for any gaps or holes that a squirrel could access. Squirrels can fit through gaps of only 2 inches wide! So you need to be quite scrupulous when inspecting
Remove easily accessed food sources such as bird feeders. Alternatively you could use squirrel proof bird feeders
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