Wildlife Removal Company

Introduction

Squirrels are common yet fascinating creatures, known for their agility, intelligence, and bushy tails. These small rodents are found in various habitats worldwide, from forests to urban areas. While their antics are often amusing to watch, squirrels can become a nuisance when they find their way into homes. This article explores the habitat of squirrels, their behaviors, and steps to take if you find them entering your home through access points.

Squirrel Habitat

Squirrels are highly adaptable animals, thriving in a wide range of environments. Their primary habitats include:

1. Forests: Squirrels are commonly found in deciduous and coniferous forests, where they have ample access to food sources such as nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi. Trees provide not only food but also nesting sites and protection from predators.

2. Urban Areas: Squirrels have successfully adapted to urban settings, including parks, gardens, and residential areas. Here, they find food in bird feeders, trash cans, and gardens. Urban environments also offer various nesting opportunities in trees, attics, and other structures.

3. Suburban Areas: These areas provide a blend of natural and human-made resources. Squirrels often nest in trees or attics and forage for food in gardens, bird feeders, and outdoor pet dishes.

Squirrel Behavior

Understanding squirrel behavior can help in managing their presence around your home:

1. Nesting: Squirrels build nests, called dreys, in tree branches or hollow cavities. In urban areas, they might use attics, chimneys, or wall voids for nesting.

2. Foraging: Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, constantly on the lookout for food. They have a remarkable memory for hiding and retrieving food caches, which helps them survive during scarce periods.

3. Chewing: Squirrels have strong teeth that continuously grow. To keep their teeth sharp and manageable, they chew on various materials, including wood, plastic, and wires.

What to Do if Squirrels Enter Your Home

If you find squirrels entering your home, it’s essential to act promptly to prevent damage and ensure the safety of both your household and the animals. Here are steps to take:

1. Identify Access Points: Inspect your home to find entry points that squirrels are using. Common access points include roof vents, chimneys, gaps in siding, and attic vents.

2. Seal Entry Points: Once the squirrels have been safely removed, seal all identified entry points with durable materials like metal flashing or hardware cloth. Ensure that all repairs are secure to prevent re-entry.

3. Remove Attractants: Eliminate food sources that might attract squirrels to your home. Keep bird feeders away from the house, secure trash cans, and store pet food indoors.

4. Use Deterrents: Consider using deterrents to discourage squirrels from entering your home. These can include motion-activated sprinklers, ultrasonic repellents, or natural repellents like predator urine.

5. Call a Professional: If you’re unable to remove the squirrels or seal entry points yourself, contact a wildlife removal professional. They have the expertise to safely and humanely remove squirrels and provide advice on preventing future issues.

6. Clean Up: After removal, clean any nesting sites and disinfect areas where squirrels have been. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and removes any lingering scents that might attract other squirrels.

Conclusion

Squirrels are an integral part of our natural environment, offering entertainment and ecological benefits. However, when they encroach on human spaces, they can cause significant damage and become a nuisance. By understanding their habitats and behaviors, and taking proactive steps to secure your home, you can coexist peacefully with these agile rodents. If squirrels do become an issue, acting quickly and efficiently is key to resolving the problem and protecting your home.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of squirrel habitats, behaviors, and practical advice for homeowners dealing with squirrel intrusions. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that both your home and the squirrels remain safe and undisturbed.