I. Introduction
If you live near trees or woods, chances are you have dealt with a squirrel invasion at some point. Although squirrels are cute from a distance, they can cause significant destruction once they enter your garden, attic, or home. Squirrels can chew electrical wires, gnaw through wooden structures, and contaminate food. Therefore, it is essential to resolve the issue of squirrel infestations as quickly and efficiently as possible. This article explores a variety of natural and effective methods to get rid of squirrels for good.
II. Natural Repellents
If you’re looking for a humane and safe way to repel squirrels, natural repellents are an excellent option.
A. Explanation of natural repellents
Natural repellents deter squirrels from entering your property while keeping them unharmed. They work by emitting scents and tastes that deter squirrels. Here are some of the most effective natural repellents:
B. Use of spicy scents
Squirrels have a strong sense of smell, and they do not like anything spicy. You can use cayenne pepper or chili flakes as a natural squirrel repellent. Sprinkle these spices around your garden, attic, or wherever you’ve spotted squirrels. Alternatively, you can mix the spices with water and spray the mixture around your property.
C. Use of peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is a natural repellent that squirrels find extremely offensive. You can soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them in different areas around your house, garden, or attic or mix peppermint oil with water and spray it. This will keep the squirrels away as they have a strong sense of smell and cannot tolerate the strong scent of peppermint.
D. Use of predator urine
Squirrels are prey animals and are always on the lookout for predators. You can use predator urine, such as coyote urine, as a natural squirrel repellent. You can sprinkle predator urine around your garden or attic, or you can soak cotton balls in the urine and place them in various areas of your property.
E. Tips to use natural repellents effectively
When using natural repellents, it is essential to change the type of repellent periodically. Squirrels are clever creatures and can adapt to a particular scent quickly. Mixing up your natural repellents can keep them guessing and help repel them for longer periods. It is also necessary to be consistent with the use of these repellents, so they are most effective.
III. Sealing Entrances
A. Identifying entrances for squirrels
To get rid of squirrels, you must block all potential entrances from where they can enter your property. Some of the most common entry points for squirrels include chimney gaps, holes in roofs, and gaps in siding. Thoroughly check your attic, garage, and outdoor storage areas for any gaps, holes, or cracks that squirrels can use to enter your property.
B. Importance of sealing entrances
Sealing entrances is crucial to getting rid of squirrels, as it will prevent them from entering your property and causing further damage. After you have identified all the entry points, promptly seal them up with materials like wire mesh, caulk, or expanding foam. This will ensure that squirrels have no way of entering your property.
C. Tips to seal openings
When sealing entrances, ensure the materials you use are sturdy and durable enough to prevent squirrels from gnawing through the barriers. Use wire mesh to close off larger holes and cracks, and caulk or expanding foam for smaller openings. Seal any potential entry points with weather-resistant materials to prevent squirrels from entering through the same gap in the future. You should also regularly check entry points for any signs of damage and quickly repair any damage found.
IV. Fencing Options
A. Types of fencing available
Fencing is an effective way of preventing squirrels from entering your garden or property. There are several types of fencing available, including electric fencing, deer fencing, metal fencing, and wooden fencing.
B. Best fencing options to protect gardens and homes
If you’re looking for a barrier to protect your garden against squirrels, then a sturdy wire mesh is essential. Wire mesh is highly durable and will keep squirrels from munching through all your hard work. For homes, a metal or wooden fence is the ideal option as it will prevent squirrels from entering your property.
C. Benefits and drawbacks of each type
Electric fencing and deer fencing are effective against squirrels, but they can be expensive, require significant maintenance, and can be dangerous. Metal and wooden fences are more affordable and relatively durable, but preemptive measures must be taken to stop squirrels from climbing through the gaps of the fence.
V. Trapping and Removal
A. Importance of safely trapping and relocating squirrels
Trapping and relocating squirrels is a safe and humane way of getting rid of them. If you are experiencing a persistent squirrel infestation that other methods have failed to resolve, trapping them may be the best course of action. However, it is essential to remember that squirrels are living creatures and should be treated as such. Choose humane traps, avoid using lethal traps, and take care when handling trapped squirrels.
B. Tips and steps for safe trapping
Set traps where squirrels are most active, such as along their path or near a tree or fence they climb. Use the right bait, such as nuts, fruits, or seeds to lure squirrels into the trap. Once trapped, handle with care, and ensure you rapidly relocate them to an area safe for both squirrels and humans. Seal up any potential entry points to discourage squirrels from returning.
C. Suggestions for relocation
If you are relocating squirrels, choose an area with a suitable habitat for squirrels, such as a wooded area, and at least ten miles away from your property. Avoid relocating squirrels during breeding seasons and ensure that you do not trap and relocate a mother squirrel, leaving behind her young to perish. Ensure all squirrels have access to shelter, food, and water for optimum survival.
VI. Distract and Divert
A. Introduction to planting alternative food sources
Squirrels frequently enter gardens searching for food; providing alternative food sources can distract them from your garden. Instead of fighting off squirrels from your garden, plant foods they like. Squirrels love acorns, nuts, and berries, so planting these in a spot far from your garden can attract them elsewhere.
B. Use of bird feeders to divert squirrels
Bird feeders can be an effective way to distract squirrels from your garden. Squirrels love bird seeds, and if you install bird feeders in a location far from your garden, they may munch on the bird seeds instead of munching on your crops.
C. Effective placement of bird feeders
Although bird feeders can be useful in distracting squirrels, always ensure they are placed high enough that squirrels cannot easily access them. Placing bird feeders near trees, wires, or other items squirrels can climb on, can present a problem,so ensure that they’re far from points of entry and difficult to reach.
VII. Ultrasonic Repellents
A. Explanation of ultrasonic repellents
Ultrasonic repellents are electronic devices that emit high frequency sounds that are inaudible to humans but annoying to squirrels. They are battery operated or, in some cases, can be charged by solar power. The device should be placed in an area frequented by squirrels and is supposed to keep them away for extended periods.
B. How to use ultrasonic repellents
Choose the right device that can cover the entire area and emit sound at the right frequency. Place the device in areas where squirrels are most active, such as entry points for your home, garage, and garden. Follow the instructions for your specific device, and keep in mind that the repellent effect will diminish over time.
C. Benefits and drawbacks of ultrasonic repellents
Ultrasonic repellents are an effective option for repelling squirrels. They’re a safe and humane method of keeping squirrels away. However, their effect is only temporary, and they may not be effective against squirrels that have already established their nest in your property. Additionally, squirrels can adapt to the sound emitted by ultrasonic repellents over time.
VIII. Conclusion
Getting rid of squirrels can be a frustrating and challenging experience; however, implementing the methods covered in this article can make the process easier. Using natural repellents, sealing entrances, fencing options, trapping and removal, distracting and diverting, and ultrasonic repellents are all effective ways to get rid of squirrels for good. Choose methods that work best for your situation, and remember to take humane measures.
Additionally, incorporate preventive measures to discourage future squirrel infestations, such as trimming your trees and bushes regularly, disposing of waste appropriately, and ensuring there are no possible entry points.