I. Introduction
Dealing with squirrels in the attic is a common problem that many homeowners face, especially during the fall season. Squirrels may seem like cute and harmless creatures, but when they invade your living space, they can cause significant damage to your property. In this guide, we will discuss different methods for removing squirrels from the attic and provide tips for preventing them from returning.
II. Trapping Method
Trapping squirrels is a humane way of removing them from the attic, and it’s a method that many people prefer to use. Cage traps and snap traps are the most common types of traps that are available in the market. Cage traps trap squirrels alive, while snap traps are lethal.
Before setting the traps, locate the areas where the squirrels are entering and exiting the attic. Place the traps in these areas and bait them with nuts or seeds. Check the traps regularly, and if you trap a squirrel, release it at least five miles away from your home in a wooded area. Seal up the entrances that the squirrels were using to prevent them from getting back in.
Prevent squirrels from returning by trimming the trees near your homes that are giving squirrels an access point to your roof or using a squirrel-proof bird feeder as a food source that would distract them from your attic.
III. Home Remedies
There are plenty of natural home remedies to get rid of squirrels in the attic. These remedies include using predator urine, mothballs, or pepper spray. However, these home remedies’ effectiveness is questionable since they vary in effectiveness depending on the type of squirrel and the severity of the infestation.
To make your home unattractive to squirrels, seal up openings and keep clutter and debris out of the attic. Do not store food in your attic or leave pet food out overnight as squirrels are attracted to food.
IV. Sound and Light Repellents
Sound and light repellents are popular methods for removing squirrels from attics. These devices emit sounds and light that make squirrels feel uncomfortable, causing them to leave the place. These devices can be found in hardware stores and online. When using these devices, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and place them correctly to achieve the best result.
Prevent squirrels from returning by ensuring all the entries are sealed, and the trees surrounding your home are trimmed to deny access to the roof or the attic.
V. Building Barriers
Building barriers is another effective method for preventing squirrels from returning. You can do this by sealing off all openings and possible entry points that they can climb or chew through. Use materials such as steel mesh, hardware cloth, or foam sealants to seal all possible entry points. Make sure to do a thorough inspection to ensure that there are no gaps or openings that squirrels can use to get inside.
Prevent squirrels from returning by trimming tree branches and sealing off possible entry points.
VI. Fumigation
Fumigation is another method of removing squirrels from the attic, but it is recommended only when all other methods have failed. It involves using chemicals to fumigate the attic, killing all the squirrels inside. This method can be dangerous if not done correctly and can cause harm to other animals, including humans.
Prevent squirrels from returning by sealing off all the entries, removing any food sources that may be attracting squirrels, and trimming tree branches.
VII. Enlisting the Services of a Professional
If you are unsure how to remove squirrels from your attic or find that DIY methods have failed, it’s time to consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service or pest control company. These companies have experience in removing squirrels humanely and can do it safely. When hiring these services, make sure they are licensed, insured, and follow humane trapping and removal methods.
Prevent squirrels from returning by using exclusion techniques and sealing up all entry points.
VIII. Prevention Strategies
Preventing squirrels from entering your attic is the best way to deal with them. You can do this by making your home unattractive to squirrels. This involves trimming trees that are near your home and sealing all entry points. Additionally, make sure there’s no food left in your attic as this can attract squirrels. Ensure that any pet food is put away at night and that your garbage cans are sealed correctly.
Prevent squirrels from returning by using exclusion techniques and sealing up all entry points.
IX. Conclusion
Getting rid of squirrels in the attic can be a challenging task, but with the right technique, it can be achieved humanely and safely. Using trapping techniques, home remedies, sound and light repellents, building barriers, fumigation, and enlisting the services of a professional can help prevent and eradicate squirrels safely and humanely. Prevention is the best strategy to deal with squirrels, so take steps to seal off any entry points and make your home unattractive to squirrels.
Remember that squirrels can do significant damage to your home, so it’s essential to take action as soon as you notice a problem. It’s always better to deal with the issue sooner rather than later.
