Squirrels may look cute and cuddly but they are a pest that can cause damage in quite a few different ways, as well as being known to spread diseases.
They will try to enter homes for warmth, shelter and food, as this provides an ideal place to raise their young. If it comes to it they will gnaw their way through wood and electrical cables in order to gain entry.
Once they have taken up residence in your property, squirrels can become a real nuisance as they will find their way into lofts and roof voids. As well as the noise they make they can also damage the roof insulation and structural timbers.
They have been known to carry diseases and pass these on to humans, including rabies (although very rare).
How to deal with squirrels?
The best way to trap squirrels depends on the environment, the type of squirrel, and the size of the animals. Mechanical traps and baiting is one of the most effective ways of trapping pest squirrels, when carried out by pest control experts.
How to prevent a squirrel invasion in the first place?
Squirrels tend to enter houses via the roof, so be aware of how close the branches of nearby trees are to your house. Trim away any branches that are within 8-10 feet of your house. This should prevent the squirrels from being able to jump from the tree to the roof.
Remove any bird feeders as these attract squirrels as well as birds.
Inspect your attic from inside to see if you can spot any potential entry points. A good time to do this is in the summer time before it gets cold and squirrels look for a place to nest. You might also want to consider using squirrel repellents to put them off coming into your attic in the first place.
If you suspect that you have squirrels in your house, get in touch with our team of expert Ayrshire and Glasgow pest controllers for advice.
Freephone: 0800 043 7790
Mobile: 07949 280633
Glasgow: 0141 256 8494
Lanarkshire: 01698 640 166
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are squirrels considered pests?
Squirrels are considered pests when they cause damage to property, invade loft spaces, chew wiring or insulation, or disturb gardens and bird feeders. Their behaviour becomes problematic when they come into close contact with homes.
What damage can squirrels cause in homes?
Squirrels can chew through wood, insulation, and electrical cables, which may lead to structural issues and potential fire hazards. They can also damage stored items in lofts and roof spaces.
Do squirrels carry diseases?
While squirrels are not the most common disease carriers compared to some rodents, they can still carry parasites such as fleas and ticks, and their droppings may pose hygiene concerns in enclosed spaces.
Why do squirrels enter lofts and roof spaces?
Squirrels enter lofts mainly in search of warmth, shelter, and safe nesting areas. Roof spaces provide protection from predators and harsh weather, making them attractive nesting sites.
Are grey squirrels more of a problem than red squirrels?
In the UK, grey squirrels are generally considered more of a pest due to their higher population, adaptability, and tendency to enter buildings. Red squirrels are less commonly associated with property damage.
How can squirrel problems be prevented?
Prevention includes sealing entry points in roofs and lofts, trimming nearby tree branches, and ensuring buildings are well-maintained to reduce access routes and nesting opportunities.
