What To Do When a Squirrel Invades Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide
Got a furry intruder? Discover expert-backed steps on what to do if there is a squirrel in your house? to safely and humanely resolve the situation and prevent future encounters.
Understanding the Squirrel Invasion
A squirrel inside your home is a frustrating experience for homeowners, but it’s surprisingly common. Often driven by the search for food, shelter, or nesting sites, these agile creatures can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Knowing why they enter and how to react effectively is crucial for both your sanity and the squirrel’s well-being. This article will guide you through the steps you should take.
Preventing Squirrel Entries: A Proactive Approach
Before dealing with an existing invader, take steps to prevent future occurrences. Effective prevention is the best long-term solution.
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Seal Entry Points: Thoroughly inspect your home’s exterior, focusing on:
- Roof vents and chimneys
- Gaps around pipes and wiring
- Damaged siding or roofing
- Unsealed windows and doors
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Trim Overhanging Branches: Squirrels often use branches as bridges to access your roof. Trim any branches that are close to your house.
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Secure Food Sources: Properly store pet food, birdseed, and any other potential food sources that might attract squirrels. Use airtight containers and avoid leaving food outdoors.
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Install Deterrents: Consider using squirrel-repellent products, such as motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices.
The Initial Reaction: Assess and Plan
What to do if there is a squirrel in your house? The first step is observation. Don’t panic.
- Identify the Location: Determine where the squirrel is located in your house. Knowing this allows you to isolate the area if necessary.
- Minimize Stress: Avoid loud noises, sudden movements, or any actions that might frighten the squirrel. A scared squirrel is more likely to behave unpredictably.
- Assess the Situation: Determine how long the squirrel has been inside and whether it appears injured or trapped.
Humane Removal Strategies
The goal is to encourage the squirrel to leave on its own, safely and without causing harm.
- Open an Exit: The most effective method is to open a door or window in the room where the squirrel is located. Allow it to find its way out naturally.
- Create a Pathway: Place a board or ramp leading from the open window or door to the outside. This can help the squirrel navigate and find its escape route.
- Nighttime Escape: Squirrels are most active during the day. If possible, open the exit point at dusk and leave the area undisturbed. The squirrel is likely to leave overnight.
- Professional Assistance: If the squirrel refuses to leave or if you are uncomfortable handling the situation, contact a professional wildlife removal service.
What NOT to Do
Avoiding certain actions is as important as taking the right ones.
- Don’t Trap the Squirrel: Trapping can be stressful for the animal and may result in injury or death if not handled properly. It’s often illegal to relocate trapped animals without a permit.
- Don’t Chase or Corner the Squirrel: This will only frighten it and increase the risk of being bitten or scratched.
- Don’t Use Poison or Harmful Substances: These methods are inhumane and can pose a danger to other animals and humans.
- Don’t Attempt to Grab or Handle the Squirrel Directly: Squirrels can bite and scratch, potentially transmitting diseases.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Once the squirrel is gone, it’s essential to clean and disinfect the affected areas. Squirrels can carry diseases and parasites.
- Wear Protective Gear: Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from potential contamination.
- Remove Droppings and Nesting Materials: Carefully remove any droppings or nesting materials that the squirrel may have left behind.
- Disinfect Surfaces: Clean and disinfect all surfaces that the squirrel may have come into contact with, using a household disinfectant.
- Wash Fabrics: Wash any contaminated fabrics, such as curtains or bedding, in hot water with detergent.
Comparison of Removal Methods
| Method | Effectiveness | Humaneness | Risk Level | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ————- | ———- | ———- | ——– |
| Open Exit | High | High | Low | Low |
| Pathway Creation | Medium | High | Low | Low |
| Professional Removal | High | Medium | Medium | High |
| Trapping | Medium | Low | High | Medium |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does it mean if a squirrel keeps entering my house?
Repeated entries suggest that the squirrel has found a reliable food source or a comfortable nesting site nearby or inside your home. It’s crucial to identify and eliminate these attractants, such as exposed food or unsecured entry points. Seal any potential access points and remove any tempting food sources.
Is it dangerous to have a squirrel in my house?
While squirrels are generally not aggressive, they can bite or scratch if they feel threatened. They can also carry diseases and parasites, posing a health risk. Their droppings can contaminate food and surfaces. It is advisable to avoid direct contact.
Will a squirrel leave on its own?
Yes, a squirrel will often leave on its own, especially if you open an exit and leave the area undisturbed. However, if it has nested or is trapped, it may need assistance. Patient observation is key.
How do I seal entry points effectively?
Use durable materials like steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing to seal gaps and holes. Focus on areas where pipes and wires enter your house. Regularly inspect these areas for damage. Proper sealing is vital for preventing future squirrel invasions.
Can I use mothballs to deter squirrels?
While mothballs are sometimes used as a deterrent, they are not recommended. They contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans and pets. Safer and more humane alternatives, such as natural repellents, exist.
What should I do if I find a baby squirrel in my house?
If you find a baby squirrel, try to locate its mother. She may be nearby and will likely return to retrieve it. If the mother doesn’t return within a few hours, or if the baby appears injured or orphaned, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
How do I find a professional wildlife removal service?
Search online for “wildlife removal services near me.” Look for companies with positive reviews and a commitment to humane practices. Ensure that the company is licensed and insured.
What are the signs of a squirrel infestation in my attic?
Signs of a squirrel infestation in your attic include scratching noises, droppings, chewed wires, and the presence of nesting materials. If you suspect an infestation, investigate the attic thoroughly. Addressing an infestation promptly will minimize property damage.
How can I protect my garden from squirrels?
Protect your garden by using netting, fencing, or squirrel-resistant feeders. You can also plant squirrel-repelling plants, such as peppermint or garlic. Regularly remove fallen fruit and vegetables. Consistent garden maintenance discourages squirrels.
What are natural ways to deter squirrels?
Natural squirrel deterrents include cayenne pepper, peppermint oil, and garlic. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around plants or use peppermint oil as a spray. These scents are offensive to squirrels but harmless to most other animals.
What if the squirrel is injured?
If the squirrel is injured, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control agency for assistance. They have the expertise and equipment to safely capture and care for injured wildlife.
How much does it cost to remove a squirrel from my house?
The cost of removing a squirrel can vary depending on the extent of the infestation, the complexity of the removal process, and the location. It can range from a few hundred dollars for simple removal to several thousand dollars for more extensive infestations. Get multiple quotes to ensure fair pricing.