Squirrels are one of nature’s most controversial creatures. On one hand, they are adorable and are fun to watch as they run around and play. On the other hand, squirrels are impolite and regularly cause trouble around area properties, even invading homes on occasion. If you're having trouble with squirrels around your Merrimac property, here is a helpful guide to keep these pests away.
What Are Gray Squirrels?
The gray squirrel is a species of tree squirrel that lives in our area and regularly causes problems for local homeowners. Identify one of these medium-sized rodents by its 6 to 15 inch long body and 4 to 14 inch long bushy tail, white to gray color, pointed nose, small round ears, black eyes, and sharp buck teeth.
Why Do Gray Squirrels Invade Properties?
Gray squirrels are most problematic during the late fall, as this is when they start seeking shelter around properties. If your property has weaknesses these pests can exploit, they will use them to get inside to nest in your attic spaces and outbuildings. Most often, these invasive rodents get inside through damage to rooflines, loose shingles, unprotected chimneys, and other damage in the exterior of buildings.
Another reason gray squirrels invade properties is to scavenge for food or hide food for later consumption. Having nut trees in your yard is one of the fastest ways to draw these pests in. It also doesn’t help if you feed squirrels, as this encourages more to come onto your property.
The Problems Gray Squirrels Cause
Gray squirrels cause problems similar to rats and mice. They spread disease through their fecal matter and urine, they chew on things they shouldn’t, and they damage gardens. These pests will also dig unsightly holes inside mulch, flower beds, and in other areas where loose dirt is present. They do this to bury their nuts and other food they gather for winter.
What You Need To Know To Prevent Gray Squirrels
There are many strategies that help to deter squirrels from properties; some are simple, others require a bit of effort. To help keep these pests from invading your home and causing trouble around your yard, here are some prevention tips to consider:
- Address damage to your home’s exterior and roofline.
- Make sure your chimney is equipped with a rodent-proof cap.
- Clean up nuts, berries, and fruits that fall into your yard.
- Install a fence around your yard and garden.
- Trim back tree branches and other greenery at least five feet from your home’s exterior.
- Remove clutter and debris from your property.
- Keep interior windows, especially ones in your attic, closed as much as possible.
- Invest in squirrel-proof bird feeders.
- Avoid feeding squirrels on your property.
Why You Should Call In A Professional For Gray Squirrels On Your Property
If you are hearing skittering coming from your attic spaces or are regularly having trouble with squirrels around your property, it’s time to get a professional involved. At Freedom Pest Control, we offer effective pest control options to handle dangerous and invasive rodents like squirrels. Using advanced pest control strategies and treatments, we will get your property everything it needs to combat these invasive creatures. We also offer a range of other services to handle a variety of pests that invade homes in our area.
Call us today to find out more about our comprehensive wildlife control services and schedule a detailed inspection for your Merrimac home. One of our technicians will evaluate your problem and help you find a solution that best fits your need.
Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.