Get Rid Of Squirrels In Attic

Getting Rid of Squirrels in Your Attic: A Comprehensive Guide

Squirrels in the attic? The incessant scratching, rustling, and potential for damage can be incredibly frustrating. This comprehensive guide provides effective strategies to humanely remove squirrels from your attic and prevent future infestations. This includes identifying the problem, safe removal techniques, and long-term preventative measures to keep your home squirrel-free.

Understanding the Problem: Why Squirrels Choose Your Attic

Squirrels seek shelter and nesting sites, and attics offer the perfect combination of warmth, protection from predators, and readily available nesting materials. They often enter through gaps in roofing, vents, or damaged siding. Knowing why they're there is the first step in effectively removing them. Common entry points include:

• Roof vents: These are often poorly sealed and provide easy access.
• Chimneys: A damaged chimney cap or gaps in the masonry are attractive entry points.
• Gables and soffits: Holes or cracks in these areas can be exploited.
• Damaged siding: Loose or rotting wood provides easy access.

Humanely Removing Squirrels from Your Attic

Do-it-yourself solutions are generally not recommended unless you're experienced with wildlife removal. Improper handling can lead to injury to both you and the animal. However, understanding the process can help you make informed decisions:

1. Identifying Entry and Exit Points:

Before attempting any removal, thoroughly inspect your attic and exterior walls to locate all entry and exit points. This is crucial for effective exclusion.

2. One-Way Door Exclusion:

This involves installing a one-way door, allowing squirrels to exit but preventing them from re-entering. These are often placed near the primary entry point. This is a humane method that allows the squirrels to leave at their own pace.

3. Trapping and Relocation:

Live traps are a common method. Once trapped, relocate the squirrels to a considerable distance from your home, preferably in a wooded area with access to food and water. Always check local regulations regarding wildlife relocation.

4. Professional Wildlife Removal:

For larger infestations or if you're uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service. They have the experience and tools to safely and effectively remove squirrels and repair any damage to your home.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations:

Once the squirrels are removed, preventing future infestations is critical. This involves sealing all potential entry points:

• Repair or replace damaged roofing, siding, and flashing.
• Install wire mesh over vents and openings.
• Seal gaps and cracks using caulk or expanding foam.
• Install chimney caps to prevent access through the chimney.
• Trim overhanging branches that provide easy access to your roof.
• Remove or secure any food sources that might attract squirrels to your property. This includes bird feeders, pet food, and fallen fruit.

Addressing Attic Damage:

After the squirrels are gone, inspect the attic for any damage they may have caused. This may include:

• Chewed wiring: This poses a significant fire hazard and requires immediate professional attention.
• Nest materials: Remove any nests and debris.
• Droppings: Clean thoroughly to eliminate odors and potential disease.

Dealing with a squirrel infestation can be stressful, but a systematic approach combining humane removal techniques and preventative measures ensures your home remains squirrel-free. Remember that safety and humane treatment of the animals should always be a priority. If in doubt, always consult with a professional.