If you hear scratching noises in your loft or see squirrel droppings, you might have a squirrel infestation on your hands. To effectively get rid of squirrels in the loft, you can use a mix of prevention measures and humane traps. Recognizing the signs of squirrels early can save you from potential damage, as these animals can gnaw on wiring and insulation.
Both grey squirrels and red squirrels are common pests that can find their way into your attic. They can create nests that lead to these unwanted visits. It’s important to inspect your home for any entry points, like gaps or holes, which can allow squirrels access to your loft. Taking immediate action is key to keeping your home safe and ensuring that these critters do not return.
Effective Squirrel Removal Strategies
To effectively get rid of squirrels in your loft, it’s important to take a few key actions. Start by identifying and sealing entry points, then consider humane traps for control. If necessary, professional pest control services can also help.
Identifying and Sealing Entry Points
The first step in squirrel removal is to identify where they enter your home. Look for holes, gaps, or damaged areas in your attic or roof. Common entry points include:
- Cracks around vents
- Gaps in eaves or siding
- Openings around pipes and wires
Once found, you can seal these areas using materials like metal flashing or heavy-duty wire mesh. This prevents future access and helps to ensure the squirrels can’t return. Remember to check for signs of squirrel activity, such as droppings or nesting materials, to confirm you’ve sealed all potential entry points.
Using Humane Traps for Squirrel Control
If squirrels are already in your loft, humane traps can help you control their population. Set up live traps in areas where you’ve noticed squirrel activity. For bait, consider using:
- Peanut butter
- Nuts
- Seeds
Place the traps along walls or near nests for best chances. Once a squirrel is caught, relocate it at least 10 miles away to prevent it from coming back. Make sure to check traps frequently and adhere to local regulations regarding trapping and relocating wildlife. This method allows you to manage the squirrel issue while ensuring they are treated humanely.
Professional Pest Control Services
If the problem persists or if you’re uncomfortable handling it yourself, consider hiring a pest control service. Companies like Terminix and Orkin offer specialized services for squirrel removal. They can evaluate your situation and recommend an effective plan.
Professional pest control can provide:
- Inspection and identification of squirrel activity
- Safe and efficient trapping methods
- Advice on sealing and preventing entry points
Using a pest control service can save you time and ensure that the issue is resolved properly. By teaming up with the experts, you can effectively tackle your squirrel problem.
Long-Term Squirrel Prevention Methods
To keep squirrels from getting into your loft, it’s important to take proactive steps. Using natural repellents and keeping feeders squirrel-proof can greatly help. Making your attic less inviting is another key factor.
Utilizing Natural Squirrel Repellents
You can use a variety of natural repellents to deter squirrels from your property. Some effective options include cayenne pepper, vinegar, and essential oils like peppermint or citrus.
- Spray Solution: Mix cayenne pepper with water and spray around entry points. This keeps squirrels away from areas they might want to invade.
- Vinegar: Soaking rags in vinegar and placing them near nests can also help, as squirrels dislike the smell.
- Essential Oils: Soak cotton balls in essential oils and place them in the attic or near bird feeders to create a less inviting environment.
Regularly reapplying these solutions is key to maintaining their effectiveness.
Keeping Squirrels Away from Bird Feeders
Bird feeders can attract squirrels. To prevent this, choose a squirrel-proof bird feeder that has features designed to keep squirrels out.
- Look for feeders with weight-sensitive mechanisms that close access when a squirrel tries to feed.
- Position your bird feeders at least 10 feet away from trees or structures squirrels can use to jump onto the feeder.
- Use baffles, which are curved barriers that prevent squirrels from climbing up.
Regularly empty feeders and clean up any spilled seeds or shells from the ground to minimize leftover food that attracts squirrels.
Reinforcing Attic Security
Your attic can become a cozy home for squirrels if it is not properly secured. Start by identifying possible entry points.
- Check for cracks, gaps, or holes larger than a quarter. Seal these with materials like steel mesh or hardware cloth.
- Install heavy-duty screens over vents and other openings to block access.
- Regularly inspect for signs of nests or droppings to spot rodent activity early.
By making your attic less accessible, you can greatly reduce the chance of squirrels deciding to move in.
