Tree Squirrels and Their Control
Background Information
Though there are several species of squirrels, our experience and
expertise is limited to tree squirrels. There are a few species of tree squirrels, but the
most common ones are either black or gray. Another species found is the Flying Squirrel
(it's not a joke) which doesn't really fly - but instead can glide from branch to branch
by extending its paws out to reveal a flat, rectangular area of skin which will support
brief periods of flight. The Flying Squirrel is also smaller than the more common
gray or
black squirrel.
Squirrels are very cute until they become a pest around
structures. If they enter a building, they are capable of doing damage to a multitude of
objects because of their chewing behavior. The most common entry point for squirrels is
the attic, which they may enter by chewing a hole into a gable or other susceptible
area. In other cases, squirrel will chew into soffits areas and make
themselves quite comfortable there.
Once in the attic or soffit, they may nest and eventually reproduce with a litter of several
young. In an attic, there is potential for damage to stored goods as well as to wiring
with the potential for fire due to gnawing of those wires. Droppings from squirrels may
also be a nuisance.
If squirrels enter a home through a door or garage, they may do damage
to furniture and upholstery in an effort to escape. In other cases, squirrels
may do damage outdoors by chewing on structures, screens, lawn furniture, plants
or digging in the grass.
The most common clues to a squirrel infestation are actual
sightings of the animals entering a structure and/or running or scratching noises in the attic
that are heard early in the morning (4 AM to 7 AM) or late in the afternoon (5
PM to 8 PM).
Control
Dealing with squirrels can take several forms. First,
environmental changes may be made such as by pruning trees that extend over a structure or
removing or securing any decorative trim or attachments that provide access to the structure. If squirrels are
coming to a roof across wires, it may be possible to install a cone-shaped shield that
would eliminate access to the roof. These may be available through the
local utility company and would naturally require professional installation.
Click here
for a link to a company that offers this type of device.
We currently offer three squirrel repellents that may discourage a variety of
destructive behavior. One repellent is placed inside an attic, soffit or overhang to repel squirrels outside.
Bat-A-Way is
a naphthalene (moth flake) product which needs to be applied by placing this granular product in a panty hose,
cheese cloth, a mesh bag or in a box.
The bag(s) or box may then be placed in the problem areas within the attic.
Bagging the product permits removal since naphthalene vapors are heavier than
air and the odor could seep downward into living areas of a structure.
Special Note: Care should be taken using this product in attic areas containing
furnaces due to the volatility of naphthalene.
This product volatilizes into these areas which causes respiratory irritation to
the squirrels forcing them to leave. After that, repair to the opening(s)
that the squirrels entered through should be done by a carpenter, roofer or
knowledgeable pest management professional. For more information on Bat-A-Way,
click
here.
Another repellent,
Ro-Pel, a bitter tasting product, may be sprayed on surfaces such as
furniture and siding as well as grass
and plants to discourage chewing, biting or nibbling. Ro-Pel relies
on a bitter tasting substance to discourage damage to the treated surfaces.
Finally, cage traps such as a
Hav-A-Hart
TM trap will allow removal of squirrels
without harm to the animal. Once captured, you will need to transport the animal
five miles or more from the property to discourage a return appearance. Note
that many state and local governments regulate trapping of wild/nuisance animals
- you may want to check with local authorities first.
For more detailed product information about the
products discussed above, click here.
Animal Control products are listed below the Insect Control Products. Some
are listed under Dr T's Nature Products.
If you have any further questions about squirrels, you are
invited to contact us by telephone, by fax or by E-Mail. These are 800-433-1128 or
845-356-2837, 845-356-2836 and
drbugclinic@bugclinic.com,
respectively. We offer free, friendly advice.
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