If you’ve been dealing with grey squirrels in your garden or loft, you’re not alone. These pesky critters, classified as an invasive alien species in the UK, can cause quite a bit of trouble for homeowners. To effectively get rid of grey squirrels, consider using methods like trapping, habitat modification, and professional pest control services.
Unlike the rare red squirrels, grey squirrels have adapted well to their environment and often invade gardens, raiding bird feeders and digging up plants. It’s important to take action not only to protect your garden but also to support the native wildlife. Knowing how to deter grey squirrels can make a big difference in keeping your outdoor space enjoyable.
Join us as we explore practical tips and methods for managing grey squirrel populations. With the right approach, you can reclaim your garden and enjoy a squirrel-free space.
Understanding Grey Squirrel Behavior and Habitat
Grey squirrels are common in the UK and can often be spotted in gardens, parks, and woodlands. Knowing their behavior and habitat can help you manage their presence effectively.
Identifying Grey Squirrel Presence
To know if grey squirrels are visiting your garden, look for signs of their activity. Common signs include droppings, which are usually dark and cylindrical. You might also notice nests in trees, attics, or your loft. These nests are made of leaves and twigs and can often smell musty. Squirrels are also known to cause damage to bird feeders, especially if they are after bird food like peanuts or seeds. You might see them raiding your bird feeders or digging in your garden for spring bulbs and cobnuts.
Diet and Feeding Patterns
Grey squirrels have a varied diet that includes nuts, seeds, berries, and even mushrooms. They are known for their love of cobnuts and will often bury them for later. When searching for food, they will dig in your garden, which can lead to damage if they disturb plants. Squirrels also forage for food on the ground but spend a lot of their time in the trees. They can be especially tricky to manage if they discover your bird feeders, as they will find ways to access the food inside.
Grey Squirrel Breeding Cycle
Grey squirrels mate in late winter and early spring. After a gestation period of about 44 days, female squirrels give birth to litters of 2 to 7 baby squirrels. These young squirrels are born blind and hairless. They spend the first few weeks in the nest, reliant on their mother. During this time, you may see the mother bringing food back to the nest, as she tries to keep her babies fed. After about 10 weeks, the young squirrels start to venture out of the nest, making them more visible in your garden.
By being aware of these behaviors, you can better understand how to prevent grey squirrels from becoming a problem in your garden.
Effective Grey Squirrel Control Strategies
Controlling grey squirrels requires a mix of prevention, humane methods, and natural deterrents. Addressing these areas effectively can help you manage squirrel problems in your garden or property.
Prevention and Proofing Methods
To keep grey squirrels away, start by removing their food sources. Secure your garbage bins and outdoor pet food, as these can attract them. You might also want to use wire mesh or chicken wire to protect gardens and fruit cages. This creates a barrier against squirrels trying to reach your plants.
Inspect your property for entry points. Check for gaps around roofs, vents, or attics. Repair these areas to stop squirrels from nesting inside. Use materials like steel or heavy-duty mesh to seal these openings. Keeping your garden tidy by removing debris can also eliminate potential nesting spots.
Humane Trapping and Removal
If squirrels become a nuisance, humane trapping is a good option. Use live traps designed for squirrels, placing them near entry points or where you see activity. Bait them with food like peanut butter or seeds to entice the squirrels inside.
Once trapped, release the squirrels far from your home, ideally in wooded areas. If trapping seems overwhelming, consider hiring a pest control company. Look for professionals approved by the British Pest Control Association. They can provide safe removal without harming the animals.
Natural and DIY Deterrents
Several natural deterrents can help keep grey squirrels at bay. For instance, sprinkling coffee grounds or using chilli powder around your garden can create an unpleasant scent for squirrels. Decoy birds, such as owls, can also scare squirrels away due to their natural predators.
You might also try visual deterrents, like reflective surfaces or shiny objects, to confuse and deter squirrels. These methods are simple to implement and often effective. Consider incorporating them into your routine for ongoing protection against squirrel issues.
