How Do You Get Rid Of Squirrels In Your Attic

How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Your Attic: A Comprehensive Guide

Squirrels in the attic? That's not just annoying; it can lead to significant damage to your home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through humane and effective methods to remove these pesky critters and prevent future infestations. We'll cover everything from identifying the problem to long-term preventative measures.

Understanding the Squirrel Situation:

Before you start evicting your uninvited guests, it's crucial to understand why they're there in the first place. Squirrels are attracted to attics for shelter, especially during harsh weather conditions. They also seek safe places to raise their young and store food. Identifying entry points is the first step to successfully removing them and preventing future infestations. Common entry points include gaps around vents, chimneys, rooflines, and improperly sealed areas around pipes or wires.

Phase 1: Identifying Entry Points and Assessing the Damage

This is a crucial step often overlooked. Thoroughly inspect your attic for:

• Droppings: Squirrel droppings are a clear sign of infestation.
• Nests: Look for nests made of twigs, leaves, and other debris.
• Chewed wires: Squirrels have sharp teeth and can cause significant damage to electrical wiring.
• Entry holes: Carefully examine the exterior of your house for any potential entry points.

Once you've located the entry points, you can begin the removal process.

Phase 2: Humane Removal Strategies

Trapping and relocation are generally considered the most humane methods for dealing with squirrels. Avoid using poisons, which can be harmful to other animals and create unsanitary conditions in your attic.

• One-Way Doors: These are often the most effective method. Install one-way doors over the entry points, allowing squirrels to leave the attic but preventing them from re-entering.
• Live Traps: These traps capture squirrels alive, allowing you to relocate them a considerable distance from your home. Remember to check traps regularly and release the squirrels far away in a suitable habitat, such as a wooded area.
• Exclusion: Once the squirrels have left, seal all identified entry points using steel wool, caulk, or other suitable materials to prevent re-entry.

Phase 3: Cleaning and Damage Repair

After successfully removing the squirrels, it's essential to thoroughly clean and disinfect the attic. Squirrels can leave behind droppings, urine, and nesting materials, which can create unsanitary conditions and attract other pests.

• Remove all nesting materials: Dispose of these properly in sealed bags.
• Disinfect the area: Use a disinfectant suitable for pet and human safety to thoroughly clean the affected area.
• Repair any damage: Address any damage caused by the squirrels, including chewed wires or structural damage. It's a good idea to call a professional for serious structural damage.

Phase 4: Prevention is Key

Preventing future squirrel infestations requires proactive measures.

• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect your attic and the exterior of your home for potential entry points.
• Trim overhanging branches: Keeping trees and bushes trimmed back from your house can reduce access points.
• Seal all openings: Ensure that all potential entry points are properly sealed. Use durable materials to prevent future access.
• Secure vents and chimneys: Install wire mesh or other protective coverings over vents and chimneys.

When to Call a Professional:

If you're uncomfortable handling the removal process yourself, or if you have a large infestation, it’s best to call a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and tools to safely and effectively remove the squirrels and prevent future problems. They also handle potential health risks associated with wildlife droppings and nests.

By following these steps, you can successfully get rid of squirrels in your attic and prevent future infestations, safeguarding your home from damage and ensuring a pest-free environment. Remember, patience and persistence are key to a successful squirrel removal operation.