grey squirrel on bird feeder

When you find signs of a squirrel problem in your home Pest Exterminators Herts can help

To most people squirrels are cute fluffy creatures. In fact, most people are happy to have them in their gardens. Unfortunately, there is a dark side to squirrels. These animals can quickly turn into a nuisance and make your life a living hell. You see, unless you’re someone who works for Pest Exterminators Herts, you probably don’t realise the damage these animals cause.

Why is Hertfordshire squirrel control so important

The reason why squirrels can cause so much damage is because they often make their way into homes. These animals use trees to get onto roofs and then enter into properties. Like rats and mice, squirrels are capable of entering through the smallest of entrances. Once they’re inside, they begin to build their nests in lofts, chimneys, and also ceilings. To do this they will often tear apart your roof and use parts of it as building materials.

These squirrels will eat through the wood inside your roof. This may cause thousands of pounds of damage. Pest Exterminators Herts has even seen cases where squirrels caused roofs to collapse.

Squirrels also love to chew on electrical cables which can lead to problems with your electrical supply. Not only that, they have been known to destroy water pipes and cause flooding.

Another reason why these animals have become a problem in the UK is because of the grey squirrel. This is an invasive species which was brought over from Europe. These grey squirrels are far more vicious and destructive than the native species. They are known to strip bark from trees, breed rapidly and damage homes. For this reason, Pest Exterminators Herts recommends that you monitor the squirrel population around your home. It’s fine to have squirrels in your garden but you do not want too many.

What you need to know about pest control for squirrels

If you have a higher than average number of squirrels in your garden it may be because of your bird feeders. These provide an easy meal for squirrels and a reliable food source. Another reason could be food left out for pets. Large numbers of squirrels running around your garden is a good sign they have built a nest nearby. This nest will more than likely be in the trees around your house or even inside your roof.

rodent proofing services

Squirrels are most active at night and you may hear them moving around your attic or ceiling. Also keep an eye out for their droppings. Squirrel droppings are similar to those of rats and mice. The only exception is that their droppings are significantly larger and have a bullet shape. If you see large deposits of squirrel droppings around your garden or home you may have an infestation.

What to do if you have a squirrel infestation

Pest Exterminators Herts recommends that you deal with squirrels promptly. These animals are capable of breeding quickly. Once a population has taken root in your garden they can be very difficult to get rid of. The first thing you should do is remove your bird feeders. That being said, there are bird feeders which are squirrel proof, so look into that. Along with this, do not leave pet food outside. Once you feed your pets put their bowls away.

Eventually the squirrels will learn there is no food to be found in your garden and may leave. You should also seal up any holes or gaps which squirrels may be using to get into your roof.

Another simple solution is to trim the trees in your garden. The most common cause of squirrel problems are tree branches which overhang your roof. Squirrels use these branches to get onto the roof and from there they enter your home. Trim back these branches as much as possible.

If you are repeatedly having to deal with squirrels, also consider cutting down the trees entirely. While this is an extreme measure it may be necessary depending on the severity of your infestation.

Our technicians can also help you. Pest Exterminators Herts is a squirrel control company in Hertfordshire. We have a considerable degree of experience when it comes to the topic of Hertfordshire squirrel control. Instead of tearing your hair out or destroying your garden, why not call us instead?

If you have or suspect you might have a squirrel infestation in your property, you can call us on 01727 613619 or email [email protected] to discuss the options for treatment with you.