Introduction
Squirrels are undoubtedly cute creatures, but they can be a nuisance when they invade your yard and garden. Squirrels can cause extensive damage to your property by chewing through wires, destroying your plants and bird feeders, and leaving a mess behind. In this article, we will explore the best tips and tricks for keeping these furry little creatures away from your home for good.
Using Squirrel Repellents: The Ultimate Guide
Squirrel repellents are an essential tool for deterring squirrels from your home and property. Here, we will discuss different types of squirrel repellents, how they work, and best practices for using them.
There are three primary types of squirrel repellents: electronic, physical, and chemical. Electronic repellents emit high-pitched sounds that squirrels find irritating, while physical repellents are barriers that prevent squirrels from accessing certain spaces. Chemical repellents are sprays or granules that deter squirrels by smell or taste.
When using squirrel repellents, it is important to follow the instructions carefully for maximum efficacy. For example, electronic repellents should be placed close to where squirrels typically congregate, while chemical repellents must be applied regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Squirrel-Proof Your Yard in 5 Easy Steps
While squirrel repellents are useful for deterring squirrels, it is also essential to take preventive measures to keep them from accessing your property in the first place. Here are five simple steps to squirrel-proof your yard:
Install squirrel-proof bird feeders.
Squirrels love bird feeders, so it is essential to use squirrel-proof feeders to keep them away. These feeders have mechanisms that prevent squirrels from accessing the seeds or nuts. There are many options available in the market, from weight-sensitive feeders to ones with cages that only allow small birds to enter.
Protect your garden by using fencing and netting.
Squirrels can wreak havoc on your garden by digging up bulbs and eating plants. Installing fencing or netting around your garden is an effective way to prevent squirrels from accessing the area. These barriers should be at least two feet high and buried six inches underground to prevent squirrels from digging under them.
Trim tree branches to prevent squirrels from accessing your roof.
Squirrels are skilled climbers, and they can jump from trees to your roof. Trimming tree branches that are close to your house can prevent squirrels from accessing your roof. You should aim to trim branches at least 8-10 feet from your roofline.
Cover entry points in your home to prevent squirrels from getting in.
Squirrels can gain entry to your home through small holes and gaps. It is essential to inspect your home’s exterior for any entry points and seal them with caulk or wire mesh.
Keep your yard clean and tidy.
Maintaining a clean and tidy yard is essential for deterring squirrels. Squirrels are attracted to food sources, so it is crucial to keep your yard free of fallen nuts, fruits, and seeds. Ensure that your trash bins are tightly closed, and do not leave pet food outdoors.
10 Natural Ways to Keep Squirrels Off Your Bird Feeder
If you’re looking for a natural way to deter squirrels from your bird feeder, there are several options available. Here are ten natural ways to keep squirrels off your bird feeder:
Alternative bird feeder options.
If you’re struggling to keep squirrels away from your bird feeder, consider using an alternative type of feeder. For example, a suet feeder or a nectar feeder is designed to attract different types of birds and may be less appealing to squirrels.
Change feeding habits.
Squirrels are active during the daytime, so consider filling your bird feeder early in the morning or late in the day when squirrels are less active.
Use spicy food.
Most birds are not deterred by spicy food, but squirrels cannot tolerate the heat. You can add cayenne pepper to the birdseed or use a spicy suet to keep squirrels away.
Use a squirrel-proof feeder pole.
A squirrel-proof feeder pole is an effective way to keep squirrels from accessing your bird feeder. These poles are designed with weight-activated mechanisms that close off the feeding ports when a squirrel jumps onto the pole.
How to Protect Your Garden from Squirrel Damage
Squirrels can be a significant threat to your garden, and it is essential to take precautions to protect your plants from damage. Here are some tips to keep squirrels away from your garden:
Natural deterrents to keep squirrels away from your garden.
Some plants have a natural scent that repels squirrels. Marigolds, lavender, and daffodils are examples of plants that squirrels find unappealing.
Repellent sprays for plants.
Repellent sprays are an effective way to prevent squirrels from eating your plants. These sprays are made with natural ingredients like pepper and garlic, which squirrels find unpalatable.
Fencing options to protect your plants.
Installing a fence around your garden is an effective way to keep squirrels away from your plants. The fence should be at least two feet high and buried six inches underground to prevent squirrels from digging under it.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior: Strategies for Deterrence
Understanding squirrel behavior is key to deterring them from your yard and garden. Here are some strategies for keeping squirrels away:
Information about squirrel behavior.
Squirrels are active during the daytime and are known for their agility and climbing skills. They have a keen sense of smell and are attracted to food sources.
Understanding their favorite foods and feeding patterns.
Squirrels are attracted to nuts, fruits, and seeds, making bird feeders and gardens their favorite food sources. They tend to feed in short bursts and stash food in various locations for later retrieval.
The reasons why squirrels may keep returning to your yard.
Squirrels are territorial creatures, and once they have found a reliable food source, they are likely to return. Regularly changing feeding habits, using repellents, and keeping a clean yard can help break the cycle of squirrels returning to your property.
7 DIY Squirrel-Catching Techniques for Your Yard
If you want to catch squirrels humanely, there are several DIY methods you can try. Here are seven techniques for catching squirrels:
Humane traps.
Humane traps are designed to catch squirrels without harming them. These traps work by luring squirrels with bait and trapping them inside. Once caught, you can release the squirrels safely far away from your property.
Basic instructions for building a homemade squirrel trap.
You can build a simple DIY trap using materials like a cardboard box, a coat hanger, and birdseed. These traps work by suspending the birdseed from the coat hanger inside the box, with the box propped up on a stick. The squirrel will climb into the box to reach the birdseed, causing the box to fall and trap the squirrel inside.
From Peppermint to Cayenne: Tried and Tested Squirrel Repellent Recipes
If you prefer a natural approach to keeping squirrels away, there are several DIY repellent recipes you can try. Here are a few simple recipes to keep squirrels at bay:
Peppermint oil spray.
Mix ten drops of peppermint essential oil with one cup of water and spray the solution around your yard and garden. Squirrels are repelled by the smell of peppermint and will avoid areas where it has been applied.
Cayenne pepper spray.
Mix a tablespoon of cayenne pepper with one cup of water and a few drops of dish soap. Spray the solution around your property to keep squirrels away.
Conclusion
Keeping squirrels away from your home and property is essential for maintaining your garden and protecting your property from damage. By taking preventive measures like installing squirrel-proof bird feeders, protecting your garden with fencing and repellents, and deterring squirrels with natural and homemade solutions, you can prevent these furry creatures from causing any more damage to your home. Remember to always take a humane approach to deterring squirrels and consider their safety and well-being in your efforts to protect your home and garden.
