What are squirrels?
Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents. Like other species of rodents, squirrels have front incisors that continuously grow throughout their life. To prevent their teeth from overgrowing, they are constantly gnawing on objects. One of the most common types of squirrel is the tree squirrel. They are whitish-gray, yellowish, red, or brown in color, and their bellies are usually lighter in color than the rest of their body. Tree squirrels have an identifying long, bushy tail that they use for balance. Their bodies are covered in a thick, short coat. Adults’ heads and bodies range in length from 6 to 15 inches. Their tails add another 4 to 14 inches to their total body length.
Are squirrels dangerous?
Squirrels are considered dangerous pests. They have the potential to transmit diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella. Squirrels will introduce disease-spreading parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites onto your property and even into your home. These rodents often find their way into cars, causing damage by chewing through wires and fluid lines. Inside, squirrels can cause a lot of structural damage to your home by chewing through wires, pipes, insulation, drywall, and flooring. They will also chew on and damage personal items and food stored within your home.
Why do I have a squirrel problem?
Squirrels live in large numbers on properties that offer food, water, and plentiful shelter sources. Squirrels are omnivores and like to feed on a variety of items, including seeds, nuts, berries, and insects. Properties with trees, bird feeders, gardens, compost piles, and clogged gutters can be attractive to squirrels. Squirrels can find their way inside of homes any time of the year, but are more motivated to do so in the late fall. Squirrels like to overwinter inside homes and other buildings. They get inside through chimneys, holes along the roofline, loose roof shingles, vents, spaces around windows and doors, loose screens, and gaps in siding.
Where will I find squirrels?
Squirrels usually build their nests inside natural tree cavities, inside old holes that woodpeckers have created, or in manmade nesting boxes. Squirrels that have found their way inside homes often create their nests inside chimneys, attics, wall voids, basements, and crawlspaces. Squirrels are most active early in the morning and during afternoon hours.
How do I get rid of squirrels?
To eliminate invasive and damaging squirrels from your home or business, partner with a professional pest control company. At Proven Pest Management we offer customizable and flexible pest management services that will completely solve your squirrel problem. Our highly trained professionals offer property owners personable and personalized wildlife control services at an affordable price. To learn more about the squirrel control services we provide throughout Tennessee and Mississippi, call Proven Pest Management!
How can I prevent squirrels in the future?
To stop squirrels from becoming a problem on your property or inside your home, take the following steps:
- Place weather stripping around windows and doors and tight-fitting caps on all chimneys.
- Make sure vent covers are secure.
- Repair holes along your roofline.
- Repair damage to your roof.
- Remove bird feeders from your property.
- Keep gardens picked up.
- Trim back tree branches, shrubs, and bushes away from the exterior of your home.
- inspect your home’s exterior walls and foundation, sealing any opening into your home that you may find.
