Squirrels may seem harmless as they scurry across tree branches and dart through parks, but when they invade your home or garden, they can quickly become a significant nuisance. From chewing through wires to nesting in attics, squirrels are capable of causing damage that ranges from inconvenient to dangerous.
This guide will help you identify signs of squirrel infestations, explore humane DIY solutions, and understand when it’s time to call in a professional. Along the way, we’ll also discuss preventative measures to keep squirrels out for good and how to coexist with wildlife responsibly.

The Problem With Nuisance Squirrels
Eastern gray squirrels, the primary species causing trouble in suburban areas, thrive in neighborhoods with mature trees and easy access to food sources like bird feeders or gardens. Unfortunately, their resourcefulness often leads them to scale rooftops, chew through eaves, and create nests in attics or wall cavities.
Left unchecked, a squirrel infestation can lead to substantial structural damage, fire hazards from chewed electrical wires, and even health risks due to the diseases and parasites they may carry.
If you’ve spotted squirrels near your home, you’re not alone. These clever critters are particularly common in areas with abundant nut-bearing trees and older neighborhoods with plenty of potential entry points.
Identifying Squirrel Damage What to Look For
Before you jump into action, it’s important to confirm that squirrels are the cause of your troubles. Here are some common signs of a squirrel infestation:
- Chewed Wires or Wood: Squirrels have strong teeth that can gnaw through wires, eaves, and siding.
- Scratching or Scurrying Noises: If you hear activity in the attic or walls, it’s likely squirrels, especially during early morning or evening hours.
- Droppings and Nesting Materials: Look for droppings or nests made of leaves, twigs, and other debris in your attic or other hidden spaces.
- Damaged Gardens or Bird Feeders: Squirrels are notorious for raiding gardens, devouring fruits, vegetables, and seeds alike.
DIY Solutions Humane Deterrents and Repellents
If you’ve noticed signs of squirrels, there are several humane, DIY methods you can try to resolve the problem. These tactics focus on making your property less attractive and accessible to these agile visitors.
Natural Repellents
Use natural animal repellents like peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, or commercial squirrel repellent sprays. Apply these around entry points, nesting areas, and gardens to discourage squirrels from lingering.
Motion Activated Sprinklers
Install motion-activated sprinklers in your yard. The sudden spray can startle squirrels and deter them from returning to targeted areas.
Ultrasonic Devices
Place ultrasonic devices in spaces where squirrel activity is common. These gadgets emit high-frequency sounds that squirrels dislike.
Habitat Modification
Trim tree branches that extend close to your roof to eliminate easy access points. Additionally, avoid leaving food sources like birdseed, pet food, or fallen nuts in your yard.
Physical Barriers
Install wire mesh or netting over vulnerable garden beds, plants, or entry points to block squirrels’ access.
Noise Deterrents
Hang wind chimes or place aluminum pie pans near squirrel activity. Sudden noises can scare them away.
Contact Us for Professional Squirrel Control
When to Call a Professional Assessing the Severity
While DIY efforts can be effective, there are situations where professional intervention is necessary. Here are some scenarios in which calling a wildlife removal service is highly recommended:
- Extensive Damage: If you notice significant structural damage, such as large holes in your roof or chewed wires, it’s best to involve an expert.
- Persistent Activity: When DIY deterrents fail and squirrels continue to return, an expert can provide a comprehensive solution.
- Baby Squirrels: Removing baby squirrels requires careful handling to ensure they are not harmed, making professional intervention essential.
- Health Concerns: Squirrels can carry wildlife diseases and parasites, posing risks to humans and pets. Professionals have the proper training and equipment to handle these risks safely.
- Safety Risks: Attempting to remove squirrels on your own can be dangerous, especially if they are nesting in difficult or high-up areas like chimneys.
Preventative Measures Sealing Entry Points and Habitat Modification
The best way to handle a squirrel infestation is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some steps to safeguard your home and yard against future invasions:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for potential entry points, such as gaps in roofing, vents, and chimneys. Seal these with sturdy materials like steel mesh or caulk.
- Install Chimney Caps: Use chimney caps to prevent squirrels from nesting inside.
- Maintain Your Roofline: Regularly inspect and repair your roofline, eaves, and soffits to ensure there are no vulnerabilities.
- Remove Attractants: Eliminate food sources that attract squirrels, such as easily accessible bird feeders or garbage bins without lids.
- Tree Trimming: Keep branches trimmed at least 6-8 feet away from your home to prevent squirrels from jumping onto the roof.
Choosing a Wildlife Control Service Questions to Ask
If professional help becomes necessary, choosing a reputable wildlife control service is crucial. Here are some questions to ask before hiring one:
- Do you offer humane removal methods for squirrels?
- Are you licensed and insured to handle wildlife removal?
- How do you handle nests with baby squirrels?
- What preventative measures will you implement after removal?
- Can you provide an estimate of the cost based on the size of the infestation?
- Are there guarantees or follow-up services included?
FAQs About Squirrel Control
Can squirrels be removed without harming them?
Yes, it is possible to remove squirrels humanely with the use of live traps and relocation methods. It is important to choose a wildlife control service that prioritizes humane removal methods.
Is it legal to handle squirrel removal on my own?
This depends on your local laws and regulations. In most cases, it is best to hire a licensed professional who has experience in wildlife control and is knowledgeable about the laws in your area.
Will squirrels come back after being removed?
If proper preventative measures are not taken, there is a possibility for squirrels to return. A reputable wildlife control service will not only remove
In Summary
Squirrels are a natural and essential part of our ecosystem, playing a key role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. However, while they are beneficial in the wild, they don’t belong in our homes or gardens, where they can cause damage or disrupt daily life. To manage squirrel issues effectively and responsibly, start by taking proactive steps to secure your property, such as sealing entry points, trimming tree branches near your roof, and storing food securely. Using humane deterrents like motion-activated lights or noise devices can also help keep squirrels at bay.
If the problem persists or becomes overwhelming, calling a professional wildlife control expert is a safe and ethical way to handle the situation while ensuring the well-being of both your property and the squirrels.
If you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation, don’t wait until the damage gets out of hand. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control today for expert removal and prevention solutions tailored to your needs.
Related Post: Squirrels in the Attic: Prevention, Detection, and Eviction Strategies