Getting rid of squirrels involves a combination of exclusion, repellents, humane trapping, and altering local conditions to make your property less appealing.
1. Seal entry points and use barriers: Install gutter guards and cover downspouts to prevent roof access, and seal all potential holes and gaps around your home to block entry[1]. Use mesh fencing or hardware cloth around gardens and vulnerable areas to protect against digging and chewing[3].
2. Utilize humane repellents: Apply liquid or granular squirrel repellents to surfaces, plants, and soil to deter gnawing and digging. Granular repellents create a barrier, while liquids work on direct-contact surfaces[3]. Cayenne pepper or pepper-based sprays are effective non-lethal deterrents for bird feeders and areas with squirrel activity[2].
3. Modify bird feeders and seed: Install baffles or caged feeders that physically block squirrels. Consider hanging feeders on horizontal wires strung with spinning soda bottles for homemade deterrence[4]. You can also use bird seed types squirrels dislike (such as safflower or Nyjer) or mix in capsaicin-treated seed to irritate squirrels but not birds[4].
4. Trap and relocate (where legal): Live trapping with cage traps remains the only reliable method for removing squirrels from attics or enclosed spaces[1]. Place traps along known paths with baits like peanut butter or whole peanuts[5]. Relocate squirrels at least 4-5 miles away, noting local laws about trapping and relocating wildlife[1].
5. Remove attractants and habitat: Minimize available food by clearing fallen nuts, fruits, and seeds, and secure garbage bins[6]. Prune tree branches that overhang roofs or fences to limit aerial access routes.
6. Encourage natural predators: The presence of dogs, owls, or hawks can help discourage squirrels from frequenting your property[6].
Cautions: Avoid using rodenticides and poison baits, as most are ineffective on tree squirrels and may pose risks to pets, native wildlife, and children[1]. Check local regulations before using traps or relocating squirrels, as some jurisdictions restrict these practices[5].
References
- [1] How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Your Yard & Home
- [2] Stop squirrels at bird feeders with this squirrel repellent
- [3] How to Get Rid of Squirrels | Squirrel Removal
- [4] What to do about squirrels | Humane World for Animals
- [5] Home Pest Squirrel Control
- [6] Squirrels: 11 Methods to Keep Them Away From Your Garden
Leave a Reply