squirrel control bristol

Squirrel infestations only tend to become a problem when the population starts to increase as they may start to enter homes and cause damage. If this is the case then the problem needs addressing quickly as they can cause serious damage to your property and sometimes cause health implications.

Signs You May Have a Squirrel Infestation

There are a few things you should look out for if you think you may have a squirrel infestation:

  • Nests in trees or hollowed out tree trunks
  • Squirrels running along utility lines
  • Squirrels on the roof or seen entering the attic
  • Fighting squirrels (This is a sign the population is growing)
  • Squirrel droppings (You may need advice from a pest control professional as they may look similar to other animal droppings)
  • Hearing noises from the attic, walls, vents or chimney ( usually scratching sounds or fighting squirrels)
  • Holes in walls, soffits, chewed wires, damaged loft insulation, signs of nests in attic
  • Damage to bird feeders (Where squirrels are attempting to get to bird food)

What to Do If You Have a Squirrel Infestation

Exclusion – Check around your property to see where the squirrels are getting in. Look for and holes or gaps and seal them so that the squirrels no longer have easy access to your attic. If you think that there might already be squirrels in your attic then you can check by stuffing newspaper in one of the holes they would use to get in and out, if you find it has been pushed out then they are probably already in there. Don’t forget about your chimney as squirrel will use them to gain access to your property, installing a chimney cap is the best way to stop this.

Eviction – The best way to get squirrels out of your property is using a one-way door Cage where the squirrels are entering the property. This will allow the squirrels to leave your property but not allow them back in.

Population Reduction – Setting traps in your attic is a good way to remove squirrels, however they need to be checked at least once a day otherwise you will be violating wildlife control regulations. There are also regulations involved in releasing the squirrels so it May be wise to seek advice from a pest control specialist.

Modifications – Trim back overhanging trees or branches that are less than 10 feet away from your roof as squirrels can use them to jump onto your roof. In addition, bird feeders attract squirrels, as they are a source of food, so if you are having problems with squirrels then it might be worth removing bird feeders to reduce the amount of squirrel around your property.

Frightening Devices – Strobe lights and ultrasonic sound devices are a short term fix the keeping squirrels away. The downside to these is that squirrels will get used to them and then they stop being effective.

Repellents – Repellents can be effective if properly used. It is worth speaking to a pest control specialist before investing money in any repellents.

If you think you have a squirrel infestation or need advice on how to best deal with squirrels in your property then call Advance Pest Control Bristol today on: 07771503107