Squirrels and rats are uninvited guests who will gladly invade your dwelling, munch on your food, and destroy your possessions. These furry troublemakers won’t be too careful or clean when hanging out in your house. On the contrary, they’ll eagerly pee and leave their scat wherever they feel like it. Before trying to exterminate the rodent invaders, conducting the comparison of squirrel poop vs. rat poop is vital. Keep reading this piece for more details on fast and effective rodent poop identification.
The Complete Guide to Rodent Poop Identification
What do rat droppings look like? If you’re asking this question, you’re on the right way to determining the type of pest invasion you’re facing and thus, exterminating the pests sooner rather than later. Other factors to rely upon are:
what shade is prevalent;
dimensions & configuration;
edge specificities;
the amount detected;
placement specificities.
The Key Differences Between Squirrel Poop vs. Rat Poop
Oh yeah. Now you’ve seen it with your own eyes. Tiny, darkish, and not exactly chocolate sprinkles… Once you force down your nausea, you will have to pinpoint where exactly the stinky stools came from. Gross, as it may be, determining the kind of feces you’ve found is essential, for it will help you effectively get rid of the little furry invaders of your property. Below, you’ll find some vital identification criteria. This information will help you with effective rat and squirrel management.
50 Shades of Poop: Haunt Them Down
At first glance, there’s no particular distinction between squirrel and rat’s scat. However, if you compare the shades, you’ll easily figure out the type of pest that has gotten inside your dwelling without you even knowing it. In most cases, if you’re noticing brownish, pale-ish red, or even greenish droppings in your house, then you’re facing squirrel invasion. As for the rat feces, it’s noticeably darker and almost black. So, yes, the issue of shades matters a lot here.
Shape & Size: Learning to Differentiate
Shape distinctions are also important. Squirrel excrement is usually coffee bean-shaped and tends to be slightly bigger compared to those of rats. As for the texture, the surface of squirrel feces is generally level and even. Rat poop is, on the contrary, of elliptical and often somewhat rectangular shape. How big is squirrel poop? Well, the answer to this question lies in the fact that both pests’ feces is frequently compared to raisins in terms of their overall appearance.
Edges: Identifying Devil in Details
Rat stools are commonly raisin-shaped, thickish at the center, and with pointy sides. At the same time, squirrel stools are usually softer and curved on the sides.
Placement: the ‘Hows’ Matter
In comparison with rats, squirrels seem to be tidier poopers when it comes to the distribution of their droppings. Are you wondering what it means? We have all the details ahead. The thing is, unlike squirrel stools, which are usually left in the same spots, rats feel the freedom to scatter their poop all over your place randomly. There’s one similarity between the two rodents related to the number of feces. Both these troublemakers poop very often. That’s because they enjoy munching on your yummies.
Amount: Heavy & Moderate Poopers
Squirrels are neater yet heavier poopers as opposed to rats. When defecating, squirrels spread out up to a dozen pellets in a pile. Because they leave their scat in the same spots, large piles of feces can eventually accumulate in their favorite pooping spots.
Rats are, on the contrary, random poopers whose excrement is scattered moderately anywhere the trash-loving, filthy troublemakers currently choose. It may seem to the inexpert eye that you’re facing a severe rat infestation. However, you should bear in mind that two rats can leave a huge mess, considering these pests’ habit of scattering their excrement all over the place.
Overall Appearance: Shine Bright Like…
It’s interesting to note that both squirrel and rat stools are shiny. Not exactly like diamonds, but you know what we mean. The only distinction is that squirrel feces tends to dry and alter its glistening texture over time. In comparison, rat droppings retain their ‘shiny and new’ disposition, obviously for the purpose of stimulating your gag reflex even more. We hope that answers your ‘What does squirrels poop look like?’ question.
With these essential details at your disposal, differentiating between rodent excrement is a cakewalk. Remember that its form, shade, and amount are the most telltale criteria. By getting to grips with these nuances, you are sure to succeed in pinpointing which animal has invaded your residence and is defecating in all the wrong places. From that point forward, your get-rid-of-rats endeavor will only be a matter of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions on the topic of this article? You’re free to delve deeper into our answers to your most frequently asked questions below. Chances are you’ll find the answer to your questions there, too.
Do Squirrels Poop a Lot?
Yes, squirrels happen to be aggressive poopers. Rat excrement is about the size of a seed. They won’t defecate all over your place, unlike random-defecating rats, though.
Is Squirrel or Rat Poop Toxic to Pets?
Yes, these rodents’ feces can be poisonous to your cats and dogs. That is particularly true about rats which carry tons of hazardous diseases. Therefore, germs and diseases that live in rat body waste can easily poison pet food and water sources.
What if I Vacuum Rat Droppings?
If you sweep or vacuum rat poop, you can contribute to inhaling its germs and virus particles and eventually get infected. Follow these steps for proper rat poop cleaning:
put on rubber gloves and protective glasses;
mix bleach and water in a bottle or use a multi-functional disinfectant;
spray the substance on the poop until it’s all wet;
let it all soak for several minutes;
wipe up the droppings using a paper towel and throw it all out into a plastic bag. Yuck! Don’t forget to wash your gloves and then your ungloved hands after that. Finish it up by cleaning the area where the nasty poopers left their shiny ‘gifts’ for you. That’s about it.
To Sum Up: Share Your Rodent Poop Expertise
The parameters you’re going to need to keep a laser-like focus on are the shape, shade, placement, and amount of stools left by your rodent invaders behind. Squirrel droppings are shorter and thinner than rat stools. However, both are similar in size; therefore, they may seem identical at first glance. Both these rodents’ feces are brown. The distinction is that squirrel excrement is commonly lighter brownish and sometimes comes in many other shades, such as pale red and greenish.
So, what are your thoughts on the topic? Do you know how to differentiate squirrel stools from rat droppings? Share your pest control experience with your fellow readers in the comment box below. We value your feedback greatly.
Everyone wants to sit in the rocking-chair and listen to the babblement of birds, relaxing after the long working day. Today I want to tell you about the squirrel free bird feeders and how to attract birds.
Birds feeding helps you to get closer to nature. But there is an animal that can bring a lot of damage, and we all know its name. Squirrels – are small pests whose population has increased recently. Now, they are not afraid to get close to people and destroy their belongings. You may ask: “What damage these beautiful creatures can bring?” Actually, a lot of harm. And we don’t talk only about the stolen seed from the feeder or broken birdhouse.
When the squirrel finds the food source, the animal wants to build a nest near it. And usually, they occupy your attic. They can easily climb the walls or jump from the trees. Squirrels are dangerous because they carry some viral infections, and they like to crunch the wires in your house.
Believe me, you don’t need such guests. But, if your feeder is closed to them, they will go and search for another food source. That’s why it’s highly important to choose the best bird feeder.
A bird feeder reminds me of good childhood times. Nowadays, the design has improved a bit, but you can still find traditional feeders.
Besides, there are many panoramic and window tools. You can enjoy the bird songs right in front of your house! So don’t wait, let’s choose the best bird feeder together.
1. Squirrel Buster Plus – Best Spinning Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
Providing products that are easy-to-use and everyone can repair them – is the goal of the Brome Bird Care company. Their service is one of the best. They not only offer you the spare parts for the products but also give you advice on how to repair the tool. Not all companies have such a policy.
Brome is one of the leaders in providing the best bird feeders to keep squirrels out that don’t harm animals and the environment. The materials are recyclable and lead-free. If you care about our planet, Brome products are for you.
The mechanism of the Brome product that protects the seed from squirrels is simple. When the pest tries to get to the food, its weight forces the shroud down and closes the seed ports. So, the animal can’t get to the feeder anymore. Besides this, the tool is made of chew-proof material that won’t get harmed by squirrels.
You can control the size of the birds that will be able to eat from your feeder, and you don’t need any additional tools to set this. The product is easy-to-use, and you can locate it anywhere. But remember to place the product high enough: if the squirrel can reach it without climbing, the protection system won’t work properly. If you choose the Brome tool, you get a free cardinal ring that will attract the Northern Cardinals, which are wonderful birds.
Pros:
Cons:
Weight adjustable;
Easy-to-use;
Free cardinal ring;
Chew proof.
Need clearance.
2. Woodlink Absolute II – Best Large Bird Feeder Squirrel Proof
The Woodlink experts have designed hundreds of bird feeders. You may choose the one you like from the plastic, cedar, glass, and metal birdhouses. They also have a recycled product line with plastic-free products that have become very popular.
Besides bird feeders and houses, they also offer accessories. After the years of hard work, the company has developed an ideal design that protects seed from squirrels and looks like a beautiful addition to your garden.
The feeder should be strong enough to cope with windy and rainy weather. The Woodlink product base is made of steel. So, the tool will serve you for long, and the squirrels won’t be able to damage it. The double-sided construction attracts more birds at the same time.
And also, you won’t waste the seed because there is a seed saver baffle, and the food won’t fall apart on the land. It’s great because the birds are not very careful. Besides these features, you can also choose the weight of the birds you want to feed. You don’t need to refill the tool often because it is large and can store two seed gallons.
Pros:
Cons:
Big capacity;
Strong base;
Has a seed saver baffle;
Double-sided construction.
Large.
3. Squirrel Buster Classic – Best Metal Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder
The construction of this bird feeder is not comfortable for squirrels to get on it. Even if the animal was able to reach the tool, the shroud would close automatically because of the big weight. The next plus is the ventilation system. What makes this product unique is how you can keep the seed fresh for the longest time and attract more birds.
The mechanism is so simple that a child can add seed to this Brome feeder. It doesn’t require any additional instruments and allows you to open it smoothly. By the way, the material is chew-proof. That means no creature can damage the feeder, even a big dog. But, I think it’s better to set the feeder high enough for the proper work. A little effort, and you can enjoy the beauty of birds.
When two people who love adventures come together, they can create something unique and useful. Something like Nature’s Hangout company. Founders believe that hiking and camping are great activities, but sometimes they want to stay at home with their families, lay on the hammock, and listen to the bird songs.
They provide various products for the gardens. Their goal is to offer you high-quality tools that are 100 % safe for nature and have an affordable price. I think they are doing great.
Imagine you wake up in the morning, look through the window, and see the beautiful birds. Your dream will come true with Nature’s Hangout feeder. It’s unique because you can set it on the window and watch over the birds as much as you want. When the tool is empty, it takes a few minutes to clean it. And the feed will stay fresh for a long time thanks to the drain holes. It’s a great choice if you have children, cats, or you just like to relax watching out of the window.
Pros:
Cons:
You can set the feeder on the window;
See-through material;
Easy to clean;
Seed stay fresh.
Nondurable construction.
5. Homestead Stop-a-Squirrel Bird Seed Feeder – Best Anti Squirrel Bird Feeder
A friendly Homestead team wants to help you feed the birds! They create beautifully crafted products that are durable and innovative. Homestead is a small company but with big ambitions. Their products provide the best squirrel protection on the market.
Thanks to high-tech manufacturing technologies, they offer low prices and excellent service. Also, the products will suit every garden or home, because they have a perfect design that will satisfy your expectations.
This feeder is simple in construction but effectively protects seed from the tree squirrels. As most products work, this one also closes the shroud when the animal gets on it. The material is very strong. And it also has a no-drip mechanism that doesn’t allow the seed to fall apart. You can fill the feeder once, and enjoy watching over the birds for weeks. It holds up to 11 lbs.
Pros:
Cons:
Strong material;
No-drip construction;
Large capacity.
The seed can get wet.
6. Perky-Pet Bird Feeder – Best Panoramic Bird Feeder
I believe that building memories that will last a lifetime is not only the Perky-pet company goal, but everyone strives to do this. Bird feeding is the company’s passion. That’s why they also want to help you interact with nature. The moment when the beautiful bird chooses your feeder among all others is unforgettable.
Perky-pet has a long history of excellence about their first successful bird feeder and quick innovations development. Now they strive to provide a stylish and effective product’s design. If you want to discover new information about birds, Perky-pet is excited to help you.
The panoramic round squirrel proof bird feeder is a great idea, I guess. The animals can eat the seed from all the sides, and you can easily observe them. No squirrel will disturb you! The unique Sure-Lock cap keeps the tool closed from both sides: on the top and on the bottom. The material is visually striking for birds. Also, it is rust-resistant, so you can use the feeder for more than one season. The tool holds up to 4.5 lbs.
Did you know that the one person that feeds birds can restore the natural balance? Droll Yankees founder believes that we can make a world of difference even with a small everyday tool, especially when the product is high-quality. The Droll Yankees technologies are created to satisfy both: birds and backyard birders.
Products have a lifetime warranty, which means you can repair your tool free of charge at any time. Some of the Droll Yankees’ customers use the bird feeders for more than 30 years! That is suggestive.
The strong metal squirrel proof bird feeder – is a good feeder. Droll Yankees tool has a metal base and cap, and a UV-stabilized seed tube that won’t fade. That’s what makes the feeder durable. The internal baffle is another innovative feature. It keeps the seed flowing smoothly and allows birds to eat from any angle.
The birds will be fed up, and the squirrels won’t. Feeder collapses when the big animal gets on it and closes the access to the food. Droll Yankees’ product can hold up to five pounds.
Pros:
Cons:
Strong material;
Durable;
The seed flows freely.
Too expensive.
How to choose a squirrel proof bird feeder?
So many feeders, the head is swimming! That was the first thing I thought about when I started to search for the best squirrel proof bird feeder. Turned out that it is simpler than I thought it might be.
You just should know what you need and what features are sometimes unnecessary. Luckily, I will tell you about the squirrels and bird feeders, how to use a tool, and will answer your questions. Let’s hit the road!
There are several materials that are used in feeder production. It’s hard to say which one is better and more durable. If you want to buy a window feeder, it’s better to choose the see-through lightweight material. In this case, the tool won’t fall off the window, and also you will see the birds through it.
The wood or metal is not good for this. But if you want to hang the feeder up on the tree branch, the material should be strong. It’s because the squirrel will more likely attack the feeder on the tree, not those that are on the window. A simple way to protect the seed.
The difference between wood, metal, or glass feeders is not very big. A choice depends on your preferences. If you choose a metal tool, it is important for it to be rust-resistant. The feeder will be outside, where it can get wet because of the rain. So, the rust-resistant one will be more durable.
In case you want to buy a glass or wood product, there should be drained holes. This will protect the seed from getting wet. When it comes to metal construction, it’s not that important because the metal is waterproof.
My recommendation is not to choose the large feeders. It’s because when you put a lot of seed, it can go bad before the birds eat it. Of course, you can put a small amount of seed, but then a question appears: why did you buy a big feeder and don’t use all the volume? However, it’s my own opinion, maybe you just want a big beautiful feeder to suit your home design. It’s a great thing!
How does squirrel proof feeder work?
It may seem like there are a lot of different squirrel resistant bird feeders. However, they are quite similar. The way they protect the seed from squirrels is standard: when the squirrel gets on the tool, the shroud closes automatically. It’s a simple but reliable mechanism. Other tools may have a special cage.
It’s not the best variant because the squirrel can hurt itself. The mechanism that is used in safe feeders is effective. As you see, many manufacturers use it, and I can also assure you that your feeder will be 100% protected.
Besides this protection, most of the products are chew-proof. The tool basement is made of the material that is like rubber, and the squirrels can’t bite it. So, the feeder has double protection. And also, you don’t need additional instruments to place the seed into the tool. You should open it, put the food, and close tightly.
Three steps and nothing more – the feeder will do all the other work. My recommendation is to change the seed at least one time per two weeks. Of course, if the birds eat it quicker, you don’t need to wait for two weeks. But sometimes they won’t eat your seed because it’s old and you won’t be able to observe these beautiful creatures.
Squirrel-proof feeders differ in size and material. They also can have different protection systems. With nowadays innovations, there are hundreds of feeder models. But there are traditional feeders that are made of plastic or wood. Now they are not very popular because the plastic one is not eco-friendly, while the wood isn’t waterproof, which is not good for seed stores.
You can find the large feeders that look like small homes. They also lose their popularity, because they are usually one or two-sided, while the panoramic feeder allows birds to eat from any angle. The glass feeders are smaller than traditional ones. They are weatherproof and keep the seed fresh thanks to the drain holes.
There are also window feeders. They are quite popular because everyone loves to watch over the birds while sitting in the chair at home. If you have children or pets, the window feeder is a great choice for you. Believe me or not, not only your child will be happy to see when the bird comes to eat from your feeder, but you will also be satisfied. Don’t worry, these creatures are brave, and they will come close to your window for sure.
The window feeders are made of the see-through material, usually plastic or acrylic. These materials aren’t very strong, but they are waterproof and durable. Also, the window tools don’t require the hooks or brackets. It takes a few minutes to clean them. If you are looking for a budget no squirrel bird feeder, the window product will be the best thing for you.
Factors to consider when buying a squirrel proof bird feeder
The most important thing to consider when you choose a bird feeder that spins squirrels off is the protection system. As I noted before, the feeders with cages are dangerous. Besides, there is no big need to use them. Choose from the products I have described – they are 100% safe for the environment.
Another factor is the capacity. I recommend choosing the medium-sized feeder. In this case, you don’t need to change the seed frequently, as the small tools require. Also, the seed won’t go bad with time, as it can happen with the large products. But it depends on your preferences.
Sometimes the small panoramic feeders allow better birds observing. The large tools may look aesthetic and remind you about childhood. As I said, you just need to think about which one is better for you and how much time you are ready to spend on maintaining it.
Don’t forget to consider the material type. For the window feeder, the best variant is plastic. But if you search for an eco-friendly product, transparent acrylic is also a good choice. If you want a wood feeder, choose carefully. Many beautiful products can have bad squirrel protection. I don’t think you need the unreliable feeder, am I right? If you want a feeder that will suit your home design perfectly, there are plenty of metal tools that look great and are highly durable. A good replacement, as for me.
What are other ways to keep squirrels away from bird feeders?
If the squirrels attack you frequently and you’re tired of them, there is a variant to use squirrel traps, which still can be dangerous not only for squirrels but also for your pets or birds. The mechanism with the squirrel’s weight works perfectly. But, if you do not feel protected, you can make a homemade smell repellent. The squirrels are afraid of strong odors like garlic or lemon. You can place them near the feeder or on the land.
The birds are usually not afraid of the strong smells, but sometimes it can also scare them away. So, it’s your choice to use the repellent or not. Of course, if the squirrels really disturb you, there are many professional squirrel repellents on the market that will easily protect you from them. It can be a smell or sound repellent.
FAQ
I have many friends that have heeded my advice and found a good squirrel proof bird feeder. It took some time to discuss what tool is the best. That’s why I have prepared replies to the most common question to make the path easy for you.
Does squirrel proof bird feeder work?
The mechanism of squirrel protection is very simple and will work properly for sure. When the squirrel gets on the feeder, the food access closes automatically. The squirrel won’t be able to steal the seed. However, when the feeder is placed near the land or the tree branch, the squirrel can reach the seed without climbing the feeder. So you should consider this fact.
Actually, you can place a squirrel proof feeder anywhere you want. The only thing you should consider, as I’ve noted before, is the possibility that squirrels can steal a portion of food if the feeder is set too low. It’s better to keep the tool 18 inches above the land.
And what is also important, if you want to hang up the feeder on the tree branch, it’s better to use brackets or hooks. And my recommendation is to place the feeder where you can observe the birds.
How to make a squirrel proof bird feeder?
There are many possibilities to make a feeder by yourself. People usually use a soda bottle that is placed between two trees. It’s not a bad idea, but I think it’s easier to buy a ready squirrel proof tool. Firstly, it is made of stronger material, and secondly, the protection mechanism is more reliable.
If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, there are many good budget variants. Or if you want a designed feeder that will look beautiful in your garden, you can find those too.
How to squirrel proof my bird feeder?
First of all, try to place it where the squirrel won’t get it. It’s hard to do because these animals are not only good jumpers but also good tree climbers. Sometimes, if you place a feeder near your window, it will be more protected because the squirrels may be afraid of the people.
But it doesn’t always work. So it’s better to buy a tool that has an innovative protection system. It will keep the seed safe.
What squirrel proof bird feeders are dangerous for a squirrel?
All the products I have described are not dangerous for squirrels. They just don’t allow them to reach the food. And after one or two times, the squirrel will understand that it’s impossible to get seed from there. But not all the tools are safe. The feeders with a cage can be very dangerous for the animals.
When the squirrel gets in a cage, it tries to get out and can hurt itself. I think there is no need to catch a squirrel, especially when there are safe tools available on the market.
As for me, it’s better not to buy the traditional wood or plastic feeders. They can have a bad squirrel protection system. If you can buy the innovative feeder at the same price, why not do this? Also, there is a better choice among metal or glass feeders. You will definitely find what you need.
Let’s Sum Up
That’s all I wanted to tell you today, thank you for your interest. I hope my squirrel proof bird feeder reviews will help you to find a reliable tool and get the satisfaction from listening to the beautiful bird song or just watching over them. I like these creatures because they remind me how beautiful our nature is and how many incredible miracles it has. The fact that some living beings can fly amazes me!
I believe that everyone who’s reading this can understand me and will also be happy to find the best squirrel proof bird feeder. Do you like to watch over the birds? Maybe you have some pictures of them? It will be great to see them in the comments section below!
References:
Northern Cardinal (Keith A. Arnold Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Texas A&M University): https://txtbba.tamu.edu/species-accounts/northern-cardinal/
Tree Squirrels (Margaret C. Brittingham, PH.D. PennState Extension): https://extension.psu.edu/tree-squirrels
Squirrels and Bird Feeders (Margaret C. Brittingham, PH.D. PennState Extension): https://extension.psu.edu/squirrels-and-bird-feeders
To enjoy birdwatching, you don’t have to go to the forest; you can attract birds to your yard by installing feeders. But delicious seeds and nuts can bring unwanted guests like squirrels that are known disease vectors and pests. They not only steal bird food but can even build a nest in your house since there is a good food source nearby. To protect yourself from these obsessive pests, use protective devices. Today I will tell you about the five best squirrel baffles for bird feeders and share my recommendations on choosing the right item and installing it correctly. I hope my guide will help you make your choice.
As usual, everything great is simple. Squirrel baffles have a simple construction and are designed to protect bird feeders from above or below. In this section, I have reviewed the five squirrel baffles that really work.
1. The Best Wrap Around Squirrel Baffle — Woodlink NABAF18
Wrap around squirrel baffles are some of the most popular models. They look like a cone with a hole in the middle and wrap around a shepherd hook or a pole on which a feeder hangs or stands.
Woodlink NABAF18 has an adjustable hole size and is suitable for posts of different diameters – from 0.5 to 1.375 inches. The diameter of the product itself is 18 inches.
This large squirrel baffle is made of metal – powder-coated steel, which means that squirrels will not be able to chew. The surface of this cone is smooth enough so that animals cannot climb on it. To install it, you do not need any additional tools. Attach a secure coupler to your pole, put on the cone, and snap its two sides together. There is no need to remove the feeder itself to install the baffle.
Pros:
Cons:
Adjustable hole diameter;
Made of smooth metal;
Does not rust.
Not suitable for wide posts.
2. Metal Anti Squirrel Cone — PREDATORGUARD Squirrel Guard Baffle
The PREDATORGUARD Squirrel Guard Baffle is another version of a cone-shaped feeder guard. The device is made of thick galvanized steel so that it can cope not only with ground squirrels but also with such large animals as raccoons. Besides, the cone is water-resistant and does not rust.
This metal squirrel baffle can be used on poles with diameters from 0.5 to 1 inches. Installation accessories and necessary instructions are supplied in the kit: a hook for hanging ones, and a coupler for pole-mounted feeders. The diameter of this cone is 17 inches. Be sure to place it at a sufficient distance (4-5 feet) from the nearest poles, platforms, and tree trunks.
Another type of anti-squirrel protection is cylinder tubes, which are attached directly to poles. Perky-Pet 341 is made of durable, but lightweight metal, and painted green to blend in with the natural environment. Unlike cone-shaped structures, such baffles are designed exclusively for pole-mounted feeders.
It is understood that the animals will try to get close to the bird feed from the ground, and there are no trees, other posts, or any platform nearby.
The pipe has a length of 14.7 inches and a diameter of about 7 inches. The manufacturer recommends using it for posts about 1.375 inches in diameter. You need to install a clamp at a sufficient distance from the ground, put this squirrel blocker on a pole and only after that attach the feeder. The device rotates freely around the pillar, preventing the squirrels from climbing high.
Pros:
Cons:
Easy to install;
Effective against squirrels, possums, and raccoons;
Clamp made of metal.
Only for pole-mounted feeders;
Not suitable for short pillars (less than 6 feet long).
Audubon Torpedo Steel Squirrel Baffle is a slide-on type baffle. Like the previous model, it can only be used for feeders that are mounted on poles. The design of most shepherd’s hooks does not let you use such protection. It is suitable for posts with diameters from 0.5 to 1.375 inches; the device itself has a length of 15.75 inches and a diameter of 6 inches.
The pipe is made of dense textured powder-coated steel, is water-resistant and does not rust. Remember that it should not sit too tightly on the post; otherwise, there will not be enough space for rotation. This baffle rotates on a special clamp, which should be set 4-5 feet above the ground. This clamp (or a coupler) does not seem very reliable, so if possible, replace it with something sturdier.
Pros:
Cons:
Made of solid metal;
Durable;
The pipe is quite long.
Unreliable clip;
Cannot be used with shepherd’s hooks.
5. The Best Plastic Squirrel Baffle — Perky-Pet 340
Perky-Pet 340 is a universal squirrel baffle that can be used for any kind of feeder. The product is made of transparent, smooth plastic and has a shape of a dome. According to the manufacturer, the transparent material does not bother the birds (unlike metal structures), and they feel safe under it. Even though the plastic used is quite dense, squirrels can likely chew it.
The dome has a diameter of 16 inches and can be used both on a pole of a standing feeder and on hanging one. The necessary parts for installation are supplied. The hooks for hanging the product on a branch are made of plastic and can withstand up to 50 pounds of weight. However, it seems that they can easily break with a strong wind.
Pros:
Cons:
Universal;
Dome-shaped profile;
Transparent, so birds feel safe.
Made of plastic;
Hooks seem flimsy.
Squirrel Baffle Buyer’s Guide
As you can see, there are different configurations and types of squirrel blockers. Here are some criteria you should pay attention to when choosing the right item:
Material. Baffles can be plastic or metal. The most durable, of course, metal products. However, they can rust due to regular exposure to rain, so choose squirrel deflectors with an anti-corrosion coating. Plastic ones do not rust and are usually cheaper, but can be easily chewed by squirrels.
Size. It depends on feeder dimensions and the distance to the nearest buildings or trees from which animals can jump. Do not buy items that are too large so that animals can use them as additional jump points.
Type. There are three types of anti-squirrel devices: cone or dome, torpedo, and platform. I recommend using only the first two, as flat platforms can, on the contrary, help pests get to bird food. Choose the type depending on your feeder type.
What is a squirrel baffle?
The name of this device speaks for itself. Squirrel baffles are special deflectors that create insurmountable barriers that keep squirrels off your bird feeders. The fact is that squirrels feed on the same things as birds: seeds, nuts, grains. Instead of looking for food in the forest, they try to steal it, because it is much easier. It not only leaves birds without food but also can scare them away from your site.
Besides, squirrels are intelligent and resourceful animals, and they are also very skillful. No matter how high you hang your bird feeder, they will always find a way to climb into it. That is why you need additional protection against these animals.
How does a squirrel baffle work?
A squirrel baffle blocks access to a feeder, deterring squirrels from stealing seeds and nuts. It is usually a tube or plate wrapped around a pillar or bird feeder itself. It has a smooth coating, so animals simply roll off them.
Cone or dome-shaped baffles have a sharp tilt angle and a rather large diameter so that squirrels cannot catch on the edge. Torpedo baffles are secured around the pillar so that they can rotate freely. It creates an unstable surface with which squirrels fall down.
Using such devices is the most humane and safest way to get rid of animals without harming them. Do not try to splatter poles or branches on which your feeders hang with any viscous substances (clue or graze), as this can lead to squirrels’ death. And especially do not add anything directly to the feed, as it can be unsafe for birds.
Choosing the right squirrel baffle, inspect the territory where you plan to place, or have already put bird feeders, determine how squirrels can climb into it. On the market, you can find such squirrel-proof devices that have built-in protection. For example, there is a feeder with a large dome atop or a bird feeder pole with baffle, which moves freely up and down due to a built-in spring.
However, such devices are often more expensive than simple baffles. Besides, if you already have a feeder and a suitable pole, there is no need to buy something new.
For pole-mounted feeders, use torpedo type baffles, and for hanging ones, choose cone or dome-shaped blockers. Regardless of the type of device, I recommend choosing metal ones, since squirrels can easily chew on plastic.
FAQ About Squirrels and Baffles
In this section, you will find short answers to the most frequently asked questions about squirrel baffles and squirrels themselves.
How to make a baffle for bird feeders?
Since the design of the most popular baffles is quite simple, you may want to do it yourself. To make a cone or dome-shaped hanging squirrel baffle, use an old mixing bowl made of plastic or stainless steel. Drill a hole in the center of such a size that a rope or post from a feeder can pass through it and secure it with hose clamps or brackets.
If you need a cylinder-shaped baffle, you can buy aluminum or stove tube and a seal or end-cap. Install a fastening clip on your pole that will keep a tube from falling, then put on the pipe itself and fix your feeder.
How far can squirrels jump?
The jump height directly depends on the physical characteristics of an animal and species. For example, the most common species in North America is the eastern gray squirrel. Adults reach 9-11 inches in length and can jump up to 9 feet forward and up to 4 feet up.
Besides, do not underestimate their mental and acrobatic abilities. They can analyze the environment and find objects that they can push off to reach their goal in a few jumps.
Do squirrel baffles work?
It depends on a particular type of it. In my opinion, flat platforms or circles are almost useless. In most cases, they, on the contrary, help animals to get to the feeder. If you pick up the cone or dome-shaped squirrel baffle for trees of the right size, it will be an excellent shield against these annoying pests.
If you chose a baffle of a cylinder or torpedo shape, make sure that it has enough space around the pole for free rotation, and then there will be no problems with squirrels.
If you have a post mounted type feeder, then the baffle top should be at least 4 feet above the ground (or better more) and right beneath the feeder. As for squirrel baffles for hanging bird feeders, it should be located directly above the feeder, which is hanging on a chain or rope at least 18 inches long, and its bottom should not be lower than 4-5 feet above the ground. Make sure it is 10-12 feet far from the nearest building, post or tree so that squirrels cannot jump from it to the feeder.
Summarizing All the Above
Many wild bird watchers will agree with me that fighting squirrels is a tedious job. Sooner or later, they will surely appear on your site in search of free food. That is why it is important to take preventive measures so that these pests do not scare the birds away from your yard and do not damage your feeders. On the market, you can find a suitable squirrel shield of any kind and price.
Have you ever faced damage made by squirrels? What is your preferred protection against them? And yes, if you still have questions, ask them in the comments below.
References:
What Can I Do to Keep Squirrels Off of My Birdfeeders? (University of New Hampshire Durham): https://extension.unh.edu/blog/what-can-i-do-keep-squirrels-my-birdfeeders
For the Birds: The Ins and Outs of Bird Feeders (Wildlife Medical Clinic at Illinois): https://vetmed.illinois.edu/wildlife/2019/07/09/bird-feeders/
The role of seed attributes in eastern gray squirrel foraging (Purdue University Purdue e-Pubs): https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2224&context=open_access_dissertations
Squirrels seem harmless creatures at first glance. But do not be fooled by their cute appearance, they are considered serious pests. They can ruin your crop: dig up plants bulbs and nibble trees (especially new buds and bark).
Moreover, they steal food that people leave unattended and pollute the territory with their excrements. Squirrels can be carriers of various diseases and dangerous parasites, so they pose a severe threat to human health.
Furthermore, these animals love to chew on wires, which can lead to short circuits and even fires. They are used to sharpen their teeth on tree branches, but they cannot distinguish them from wires. According to statistics, the fifth part of all cases of unplanned outages in the United States occurs precisely because of squirrels.
If your home is close to a forest or garden or your neighbors have squirrels on their site, you should think of how to repel squirrels. Check all storage rooms, close basements, and attics, install a mesh on a vent and chimney, cut long tree branches, and make sure your trash cans are tightly closed. Remember that squirrels are easier to control before they build their nest in your house.
But even if these animals already settled on your site, do not be discouraged. There are a lot of products on the market that will help you get rid of these small pests forever. To help you choose the right tool, I have compiled a list of the best squirrel repellents that work.
My experience shows that in the fight against such smart creatures as squirrels, it is better to use complex measures. Be sure to do the housework described above and use the tools from the squirrel repellent reviews below. The list includes ultrasonic devices, sprays, and a sprinkler with a motion sensor.
Do not forget that although these animals are small, they belong to the wild; they can scratch and bite you if you act aggressively. Be careful: do not try to play with them or catch them with your bare hands.
1. Hoont Motion Activated Jet Fuse — Intimidate Squirrels with Water
In addition to unpleasant sound and bright light, you can effectively use ordinary water against squirrels. If an animal is sprayed with a powerful jet of water, this will create a negative experience, and next time it will prefer to bypass the danger zone.
The Hoont Motion Activated Jet Blaster is equipped with a sensitive motion sensor that responds to an animal approaching up to 30 feet and releases a powerful stream of water towards a squirrel. It is one of the most humane squirrel control devices. The flow is ejected for about 5 seconds, which provides an economical flow of water.
Installing the Hoont Motion Activated Jet Blaster in a garden is easy. Just determine the zone where, in your opinion, animals walk the most, and stick the pole of the device into the ground. If you want to cover a larger area, use several devices at once. Just make sure that they are all connected to a water hose.
The device is really effective in repelling squirrels by scaring them with a sudden jet of water. You do not need to use additional chemical additives to get rid of pests. Only carefully place the device in your area, so as not to accidentally get wet yourself.
Pros:
Cons:
eco-friendly;
covers large area;
cost-effective.
needs constant access to water;
your pets can also fall under the “shelling”.
2. Ortho Animal B Gon — Protect Your Garden from Squirrels
Target Species: Rabbits, Groundhogs, Squirrels, And Other Small Herbivores
As I already wrote, squirrels like to host in the garden and can nibble young plants. To protect your garden, use the Ortho Animal B Gon repellent. It contains biodegradable and non-toxic components, does not harm squirrels, but makes them stay away from your house. It is a natural squirrel repellent; there are peppermint, cinnamon, and rosemary oils in it.
The product is easy to use; it does not need to be diluted with water or other components. Just water the plants you want to protect with this solution. It is recommended to use for ornamental plants and flowers. Please note that you must be careful when dealing with edible crops. Try to water the plants so that the liquid does not get on the fruit.
One gallon is enough for a site of approximately 4,000 square feet. As stated by the manufacturers, watering must be repeated every 30 days or immediately, as soon as new squirrel damage has appeared. However, as practice shows, weather factors must also be taken into account. If it rains heavily in your area, I recommend repeating the treatment.
Pros:
Cons:
organic;
harmless for pets;
ready to use.
can be washed off by rain;
you need to carefully water edible crops.
3. Hoont Solar Powered Motion Activated Ultrasonic with Flashing Strobe — Squirrel Repellent for Garden
Ultrasonic devices emit sound vibrations to which only animals are sensitive so that you would not hear any extraneous sounds. An excellent option for scaring off squirrels is the Solar Powered Motion Activated Ultrasonic with Flashing Strobe from Hoont.
This device emits not only ultrasonic waves, but also has built-in LED flashlights. With it, you can get rid of not only squirrels but also other large animals, for example, raccoons and dogs.
The device has three settings for the ultrasound frequency and seven settings for motion sensor sensitivity. An infrared sensor is capable of detecting animals at distances up to 30 feet. Therefore, I recommend that you not install it too close to the paths that you walk on or nearby trees with low hanging branches.
Due to its rugged and waterproof hull, as well as power from built-in solar panels, this squirrel repeller is perfect for using outdoors, on a farm or in a garden. No difficulties with the device installation should arise. It is attached to a small metal peg that you can stick into the ground in the desired area. And although the device charges batteries from solar panels, you can also charge it using a USB cable if necessary.
Pros:
Cons:
perfect for garden;
double effect (sound + light);
environment friendly.
may discharge in cloudy days.
4. BH-1 Ultrasonic Pest Repeller — Electric Squirrel Repellent
The high decibels of BH-1 Ultrasonic Pest Repeller noise will make the place of interest unbearable for squirrels that are just planning to occupy it or already live there and make them stay away from it. Just remember that upholstered furniture and carpet absorb ultrasound, reducing the effectiveness of the device. For the best results, it is better to move the furniture to another place.
This unit is easy to install and efficient even when used in over 1,600 square feet. It is great for protecting a garage, basement, or pantry. The manufacturer recommends using one device in each room. If you also suffer from the invasion of insects or other small rodents, the device will scare them away.
Please note that this ultrasonic squirrel repellent needs power from the mains to work, so it cannot be used in the garden. Although the device is quite compact in comparison with many analogs and has a minimalistic design, it can overlap an adjacent outlet.
Active Ingredients: Peppermint Oil 0.32%, Rosemary Oil 0.21%
Item Form: Spray
Item Weight: 2.16 pounds
Package Dimensions: 10.87 x 5 x 3.82 inches
Target Species: Rodents
If besides real estate, you also have a car or garden equipment, you should take care of it too. Squirrels can hide in a vehicle that has been idle for some time (especially in winter), and not only make a nest there but also bite wires and tubes. Use Rodent Vehicle Natural Repellent on time to get rid of pests, because car repair can cost you a lot.
This spray consists only of natural ingredients and is safe for use in a garage. It is not flammable and does not stain clothes. Although it contains only harmless components, avoid swallowing or contact with the eyes and thoroughly wash your hands after use.
The composition contains essential oils of rosemary, garlic, pepper, and mint, the aroma of which is pleasant to humans, but repels squirrels. I recommend thoroughly inspecting the vehicle and treating all possible access points (pedal shafts, air vents, cable holes, the tailpipe, etc.) with this spray. Rodent Vehicle Natural Repellent does its job perfectly — it scares squirrels off and prevents them from returning to their former place.
Pros:
Cons:
pleasant smell;
natural ingredients;
easy to use.
requires regular usage.
Squirrel Repellent Buyer’s Guide
As you can see, there are many different pest control products on the market. After you have studied my recommendations regarding existing anti-squirrel products, you need to determine which one is better for you. In this guide, I will share with you several useful tips, and also tell you how to choose the best squirrel repellent.
Remember that it is better to take preventative measures than to try to get squirrels out of the house. If you miss the right moment, the whole family can appear on your site. Squirrels give birth twice a year, and there can be up to 10 cubs in one litter.
How to Repel Squirrels: Useful Tips that Work
First of all, you need to make sure that all the holes through which squirrels can enter the house are blocked. Approach the house and utility rooms inspection responsibly: one open vent hole will be enough for animals to get into the room.
Ensure that the doors and windows in the attics and basements are tightly closed, leaving no gaps. Although squirrels climb well on most surfaces, it’s best to reduce their chances of climbing into the attic. Cut tree branches that are too close to your house.
Try not to leave edible stuff open. And now I mean not only the food that you eat. Squirrels love to eat bird food because it usually contains seeds and nuts that are rich in protein. Make sure your trash can is hermetically sealed and free of holes and other damage.
If you planted seedlings in the garden, do not forget to clean everything around. The remaining pieces of bulbs or young leaves on the surface will attract the attention of these animals, and then they will definitely dig into the bulbs in the ground.
In spring, squirrels are especially dangerous for the garden. Nuts and seeds they buried already begin to germinate and are not suitable for food, and new ones have not yet ripened. Because of that, they begin to nibble the young buds of the trees.
And do not forget that the smell of a predator is what deters squirrels. Even if you don’t have a cat or dog in your house, you can borrow some fur from friends. Scatter small pieces of fur in the attic, basement, and garage so that the squirrel thinks there is a predator in the house.
Unfortunately, scaring off squirrels with dummies or a scarecrow will be unsuccessful. Squirrels are smart and do not respond to stuffed animals.
Different Types of Repellents: How to Choose and Where to Use
I recommend you follow the measures described above and regularly inspect all buildings on the site. In addition to this, use repellents that will have an additional effect on squirrels. The task of any repellent boils down to creating a negative experience for animals staying on your site so that they would no longer want to come back.
All the instruments I described are eco-friendly and humane; they do not kill squirrels, but only scare them away. So, they are safe both for people and for pets.
If you think squirrels have really settled under your roof, use indoor ultrasonic devices. The human ear is immune to the sounds it makes, but rodents cannot stand them.
They will avoid the rooms in which this unit is installed. Often these devices are small in size and are designed for relatively small areas. If you need to get rid of squirrels in several rooms at once, use one device for each room.
Squirrels can settle not only in residential premises but also in garages. They can pretty much ruin the upholstery of your car, chew on tubes and wires. To protect your car and garden equipment, use specialized vehicle sprays.
They contain natural ingredients such as rosemary and peppermint essential oils that squirrels cannot tolerate. It is enough to process all the holes with this spray to discourage animals from wanting to place their nest there.
To completely drive squirrels from the territory of your garden, you can use larger devices with motion sensors. Adjust the sensitivity of this sensor, and when animals approach the device, either LED flashlights turn on, or a sudden stream of water is thrown out.
Unexpected light or water strike is a great squirrel scare. The advantage of such devices is that they cover a large area and can be used at a distance from home because they work on batteries or solar panels.
Additionally, you can protect the plants themselves. If squirrels are used to digging flower bulbs or nibbling ornamental plants, pour them with liquid repellents. Since they contain only natural ingredients, they will not cause damage to your plants but will scare animals away. Most often, such solutions are sold in large containers, which last a long time.
Here I picked the most common questions that users ask me.
Do Ultrasonic Squirrel Repellents Work?
Although you do not hear the sound they make, it does not mean they do not work. Ultrasonic devices are considered one of the most effective tools in the fight against squirrels. The device emits sounds to which only rodents are susceptible.
The animal feels uncomfortable, panics, and tries to leave the room as soon as possible. It will still take some time to get rid of the squirrels as animals should memorize dangerous areas.
Squirrels are afraid of ultrasound. These are sound waves with the frequency higher than the human ear can perceive. Usually, by the ultrasound, we mean frequencies above 20,000 hertz.
Sometimes in a battle against squirrels, people also use sound repellers, which imitate birds of prey’ cries or simply make sudden and loud pops. But such devices are not the most popular since humans hear such sounds perfectly.
What Smells Do Squirrels Hate?
Squirrels have a very acute sense of smell, so they do not like pungent odors. In most natural sprays, you will find essential oils of peppermint, rosemary, black or red pepper. Most often, these flavors are pleasant to people, and squirrels, on the contrary, try to avoid them.
Some repellents may contain an extract of predator secretions, for example, a spray from fox urine turn on the squirrels’ instinct of self-preservation.
Yes, many rodents do not like the peppermint aroma, both essential oil and the plant itself. This smell is a good squirrel deterrent because animals can feel it from afar. With the help of this oil, you can scare the squirrels off and spray it wherever they go.
The only minus of homemade peppermint-based repellents is that the smell disappears too quickly and needs to be reapplied. That is why I recommend using professional products that contain peppermint oil.
Why Do Squirrels Dig in Flower Pots?
Squirrels dig in flower beds in search of young plant bulbs. Perhaps you didn’t bury the bulb deep enough or left the husk on the ground, and the smell attracted a squirrels’ attention. As far as I know, these animals most often eat the bulbs of Colchicum, Tulips, Gladiolus, and Crocuses. However, such flowers as Narcissus, Hyacinth, Galanthus, and Muscari, they prefer not to eat.
Summarizing the Above
Perhaps not many of us have wondered what danger can bear such seemingly harmless creatures as squirrels. However, they can be a serious threat to your harvest and your health condition. In the fight against these smart animals, you need to show patience and a little ingenuity. My personal recommendation: combine several of these methods, as well as their regular use.
Tell me what sign of squirrel activity have you faced in your life? Maybe you have useful tips that I did not mention which were effective for you? If any of the readers still have questions, be sure to ask them in the comments box under this article.
References:
Squirrels (College of Agriculture and Natural Resources): https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/squirrels
Effectiveness of predator odors as gray squirrel repellents (Frank Rosell): http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.575.7624&rep=rep1&type=pdf
How can I keep squirrels from digging up newly planted tulip bulbs? (Iowa State University Extension and Outreach): https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/faq/how-can-i-keep-squirrels-digging-newly-planted-tulip-bulbs
It is always a pleasure to meet a tiny, fluffy squirrel while walking in a park or forest. But it would be a disaster if this rodent decided to be your cohabitant. Problems with squirrels remind me of troubles with noisy neighbors.
The biggest difference is that they are more dangerous than any Bill over the fence. These nutlovers can easily damage your home. Here is a list of the most common misdoings:
Stealing food. I suppose you don’t mind sharing a fruit with a living being. But now imagine a squirrel breaking into your greenhouse and making a family diner there. Sounds unappetizing, doesn’t it?
Chewing on wires might provoke a spark. It definitely won’t kill a rodent, but it causes power outage and provokes a fire!
Making holes and nests might turn your home into a ruin. Insulation is squirrels` favorite material for nests. They chew out chips of insulation and build a place to settle from it. If these pests settle down on your attic, be ready to see your roof or ceiling dripping.
Spreading infections and parasites. The urine and droppings might provoke mold and other pathogens that are dangerous for human health. Moreover, fleas, ticks, and tapeworms are the faithful companions of squirrels — they will invade your home altogether.
Sometimes, it’s hard to believe that such cute animals could be uncontrollable pests. I hope the above-mentioned list has convinced you that squirrels are dangerous. The most effective way to get rid of them is to use traps. So I made a compilation of the top 5 best squirrel traps that I used and checked in different surroundings.
1. My Favorite Live Squirrel Trap – Havahart 1077 Small Professional Style One-Door Animal Trap
Havahart is one of the oldest brands in pest control. They are concerned about the quality and usability of their products. I recommend their traps because all of them are galvanized for maximum resistance to corrosion and rust. You can’t be sure whether you will need a trap again in 1, 5, or 10 years. Havahart company says that it specializes in the long-lasting mechanism, so their products may be used again for ages.
According to my experience with these products, the Easy Set Trap is the best squirrel trap on the list. I prefer to use it outdoors. Its simple, but smart mechanism makes squirrel tapping easy even for children. All you need is to put a bait and pull back on the Easy Set lever.
Adults can set it with a single hand. This high-tensile steel cage with a solid door and a trigger plate is the best live squirrel trap. Even when the squirrel is trapped, you don’t need to worry about your safety. The carry handle is protected from contacts with a rodent, so it won’t bite or scratch you.
However, if it doesn’t work, I advise you to put a trap bait on the outside of the cage and a little at the back of it, so squirrels will have to step on the trigger plate, and you’ll see the result.
Pros:
Cons:
suitable for small, big squirrels, and even rabbits;
The Rugged Ranch makes products for gardens and farms. Thus, they do know the importance of a good trap that will not harm other animals or the environment. The Squirrelinator is big enough to catch 25 squirrels at once. The construction reminds of a maze.
So when a squirrel gets in it, it loses a sight of a way out in its race to the food, that is in the middle of a trap. Nevertheless, don’t wait till Squirrelinator will be full of animals: check it every day and get rid of the trapped pests at once.
This trap is rather big: it measures 23.25 x 23.25 x 4 inches. Squirrels get inside through a one-way swinging door straight to maze-like corridors. But if the smartest one pulls over the swinging door, that animal can break it or make a gap to escape.
Also, it is better to reinforce the lockers on a back door, e.g. to put extra strings or springs with hooks on it. If it fits tightly with walls, the pests won’t climb out through gaps. Despite such defects, Squirrelinator is still the best multi-catcher.
Pros:
Cons:
a multi-catch trap;
simple to use;
keeps animals alive;
you can order a special basin for transportation, or drowning.
pests can learn how to open the doors from the inside;
expensive.
3. Single Squirrel Eliminator Trap: Havahart 1025 Small 2-Door Live Animal Trap
This Havahart product is perfect not only for a continuous outdoor use, but also for the indoor purposes. If you have an unwelcome guest in your attic and want to remove it to the forest, use this 2-Door Live Trap. Some specialists say that it’s useless to put a trap in an attic. Squirrels don’t walk in it. As for me, it’s better to try to catch the invader in the attic, in ventilation pipes, and somewhere in the garden.
The setting process takes 3 minutes. Turn the door locks to the open position. Open the doors by pushing down the offset loop on the loop trigger rod. Then connect the hooked end of the offset loop with the hooked end of the bait plate trigger. It will open the doors. Don’t forget to turn the door locks over on the doors; otherwise, a pest will escape.
It is possible to make a “tunnel” trap by opening both doors or make a “one-way” — by closing one of the doors. The trap works when an animal steps on a trigger plate. When a squirrel walks along the “tunnel”, it steps on the plate. But sometimes, a rodent is too light for the trigger. If you see that “tunnel” trap doesn’t work, try to close one of the doors and put baits near it. In this case, a squirrel will have to step on the plate to reach the food.
I’ve also noticed that doors are lightweight. This makes setting the trap easier, but pests can escape through it. A big or strong animal may break the door or make a gap. So before buying this trap, try to figure out the size of the invader.
Pros:
Cons:
rather cheap;
keeps rodents alive;
small in size.
suits only small pests;
strong animals may escape from the trap.
4. Iconic Lethal Squirrel Trap: made2catch Pack of 4 Classic Metal Rat Traps
Special Features: Long Lasting Fully Galvanized Metal
Item Weight: 4.3 Ounces
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 6.6 x 3.5 x 0.9 inches
Target Species: Rat
Yes, these classic rat traps are perfect for squirrels. They are bigger than mouse traps: 6.60 x 3.50 x 0.90 inches. So be careful with a mechanism. These traps can easily hurt you. If you have never used a classical mice trap, the setting of a rat trap may take some time and efforts. It’s better to practice without any bait on it.
The material is highly tight: a strong spring on a kill bar helps to get rid of the pests immediately. The trap literally cracks a rodent in half. It is messy, may be bloody, but it is a momentary death.
I recommend made2catch Pack because you can choose the material of the trap depending on the area of usage. For indoor usage, pick the brass coated trap, which is not only stylish, but also doesn’t scratch the flooring. Fully galvanized and fully burnished traps are highly resistant to corrosion. The differences between them are in color and service (burnished traps need to be oiled occasionally).
Pros:
Cons:
4 traps in a pack;
kills the pests immediately;
classical technology that has been used for centuries.
it is easy to harm yourself during the setting;
a dead rodent might be shocking for sentimental persons.
This device prevents your home from extra mess. The PestZilla brand specializes in quick and painless killing technologies without any blood spots. You don’t need to look inside or touch a body to be 100% sure that a trapped squirrel is killed. This electronic trap informs when a pest is killed by a light and sound indicators. Mind that the indicator will beep every time when an animal is in the trap. Therefore, be ready for endless beeping.
The privilege of this item is a shape of a tube — simple and stylish. Also, it is easy to clean — slide a dead body into the trash bin, and it’s ready for work again. Some experts recommend to clean the PestZilla with a soap water. But I am really not sure that usage of water and electricity simultaneously is a good idea.
To turn the Electronic Trap on, you need to plug it in with a prominent adapter. But if you are concerned that squirrels may damage wires, put 4 ‘D’ batteries. The batteries charge will be enough for more than 30 disposals.
Pros:
Cons:
works for small rodents;
anti-escaping technology;
a special indicator shows whether there are any trapped rodents in;
7000V electric shock kills painlessly.
needs electricity,or batteries;
not eco-friendly;
loud beeping sound when a pest is cached.
A Buyer’s Guide
How to Choose a Perfect Trap?
Squirrels, especially tree squirrels, differ in size and areas of settling. To choose a perfect trap, start with making a list of signs of invasions, e.g. bitten fruits and nuts, excrements, holes in a wall or a roof, acorns in an attic or acorns hidden in a tree’s root etc.
Pay attention to where you have found the signs of their activity. These signs may help you to define where their nest is and how many species live there.
Then, taking into consideration the information, choose what type of trap you need: indoor or outdoor, single or multi-catch, live or killing, mechanical or electronic. For example:
You hear a strange noise in your walls and in the chimney, find droppings and acorns in the attic, see chips of insulation under the walls — a squirrel lives in your house! The fastest way to get rid of it is to choose an indoor electronic killing trap.
Someone steals strawberries from your greenhouse, squeaks every morning, throws twigs — a family of squirrels decided to be your neighbors. Therefore, an outdoor live trap may solve the problem. Later you can release ex-neighbors far far away.
Here is checklist with some tricks on how to use a squirrel trap. It is not necessary to follow it strictly, but it rises the percentage of effective catching. Use these pieces of advice for any type of trap.
Check your local catch-and-release laws before trapping.
Start squirrel trapping in late spring or early winter to prevent squirrels from breeding in your home. Don’t wait till the “best time” if you have a problem right now.
Put the trap near a squirrel’s nest or in the areas where the animal used to steal food. Try to remove all other food sources.
Camouflage the trap by placing twigs and leaves on the top or leave the trap unset, so animals will get used to it.
Put the baits and set the trap in gloves. It will save you not only from microbes, but also the trap from human scent.
Check the trap once a day. Don’t forget to check the walls and doors for the signs of damage.
Experiment with different baits to find out what attracts squirrels most. If a squirrel is stealing your birdseed, use some of the same type of seed as a bait.
Disinfect your trap after each use. Mix 1 part of bleach with 9 parts of water, apply the solution, and wait for 20 minutes before wiping down the trap.
If you put a proper bait in a rat trap, it will kill a squirrel. As I have already mentioned, squirrels can have different sizes:an adult squirrel might be larger than a mature rat. Any rat trap causes the same damage to a squirrel as to its target-animal.
What to Put in a Squirrel Trap?
The best bait to catch a squirrel is a combination of peanuts and peanut butter. As you may know, these pests are omnivores: that can eat anything. But they are extremely attracted to specific products. I recommend you to put in a trap:
nuts;
sunflower seeds;
popcorn;
cereal grains;
apple slices;
almond extract on bread;
anise oil on bread (1-2 drops).
Also, don’t forget to change the squirrel trap bait type if it doesn’t work from the first time.
How to Set a Squirrel Trap?
Put on gloves to avoid transferring of human scent on a trap. Take an instruction. If there isn`t one, here are some tricks for setting a squirrel trap:
Figure out where is a door for a rodent.
Study the mechanism for trapping: there might be a bait plate, a trigger, springs, a lock down cover.
Choose a place for a trap.
Put a bait in the middle of the trap, so it will be impossible to get it from outside.
Set a mechanism: an entrance door must be open and springs must be pulled to a trigger.
Cover a trap with a fabric when an animal is inside. This protects the imprisoned squirrel from extra stress and a squirrel catcher from bites and scratches.
Take the trap with the animal at least 2 miles away. Check the local catch-and-release laws and bring the invader as far as you can.
Put the trap on the ground.
Stand near a back wall and lean over the trap.
Remove the fabric,open the door quickly, and step back.
It may take 3-5 minutes for the pest to get out.
Disinfect the trap to prevent the spreading of potential diseases.
How Can I Prevent Squirrels in the Future?
Trim back tree branches, shrubs, and bushes away from the exterior of your house.
Inspect your exterior walls and foundation. Repair if needed.
I want to remind you once again — squirrels are not pretty pets, they are wild pests. Be wise and cautious if they are frequent guests in your garden. Don’t let them settle down on your property. If they choose your home as their nest — don’t panic.
Make a research, get information, and choose the trap suitable for you. Pay attention where to put a trap and make a set of different baits. Decide whether to kill a rodent or release it somewhere else. Consider your budget. Only after answering these questions, you will be able to find your best trap that will save you from annoying pests and help to enjoy your home, garden, and calm life overall.
Recently, I have heard a squirrel fighting with a pigeon for seeds. Their noise woke all neighborhood up at 5 a.m. I thought about the need to apply some pests control measures immediately. What bothers you the most about squirrels? What troubles did squirrels cause you?
References:
Squirrel causes power outage (City of Morganton, NC Local Government): https://www.morgantonnc.gov/index.php/government/city-manager/public-information-office/news-releases/1123-squirrel-causes-power-outage
Tree Squirrels (Kansas State University Research and Extension): https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/species/tree-squirrels/index.html
Squirrel Nuisance Problems (Connecticut’s Official State Website): https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Nuisance-Wildlife/Problems-with-Squirrels
Did you know that the little troublemakers have five toes on their back feet and four on their front feet? Well, if you didn’t, now you do. And, if you’ve come this far looking into all possible information on them, you might just have got yourself a real rodent problem.
Though we generally see squirrels as cute bushy-tailed creatures that jump in the trees in search of acorns and nuts, they can pose a real threat to your household and do more harm than good. I’m aware of the fact that treatments and remedies against them aren’t really mainstream, so I’ve prepared this article in case you are in need of assistance.
Kinds of Squirrels
Very few people actually know this, but there is more than just one type of squirrel. In fact, the animals we call ‘squirrel’ is a family name for a variety of rodents that inhabit the ground and underground, trees and bushes.
Ranging from a tiny chipmunk to sciurine, or a huge groundhog, squirrels have individual eating and living habits that you should be aware of before starting to deal with them.
Eastern Gray Squirrel
These tree-climbing fellas are one of the most widely-spread kinds of species in North American. They are easily recognized by their long fuzzy tail that they can use for all varieties of actions – from using it as a shade screen to pretending it’s an umbrella.
The animals are known to be hoarders of all kinds. They can store around tens of kilograms of food as a reserve for the cold seasons. Both males and females are quite alike, and they tend to live in pairs during the mating season.
Their main nutrition includes nuts and berries, and sometimes crops. The Eastern Grey can nest in households and attics where it finds warmth and necessary protection from wind and bad weather.
American Red Squirrel
Spread across the North of North American, this family is a small group of critters that live in the trees. They are the easiest to recognize thanks to their rusty shade.
These squirrels can be called loners due to their solitary nature. It’s been established that this species prefers to settle one-dweller nests and pairs up only for reproduction, after which it escapes.
As a supplement to their nutrition, the Reds can eat bird eggs and mushrooms of all kinds. They also enjoy sweet food, so they sometimes damage tree bark and eat the syrup.
Squirrel vs Chipmunk
Many people wonder how to distinguish a chipmunk vs squirrel. Well, these rodents are much smaller in size and are usually less noticeable. They look rather similar to a common house rat but have a distinct set of white stripes along their backs.
Despite their petite constitution, they can gather nearly the same amount of food that a regular squirrel does. Moreover, chipmunks are capable of stuffing their cheeks with food until they can unload it in their nest. They use their own food as a nest by setting it around their burrow and sleeping on it.
You may know them for their bodacious singing habit that is used as a tool for notifying other representatives of the species about their current location. They are seen multiple times stealing provisions from barns and places of human congregations.
Squirrel vs Groundhog
Groundhogs are one of the largest species that use ground-dug burrows as their natural habitat. Greyish fur and short tails make them very unlikely to be noticed, especially in dim lighting, which makes them perfect for hiding from bigger animals.
Being rather massive rodents, woodchucks are completely harmless to people since their teeth are mostly blunt. However, groundhogs are a threat to land lots, lawns, and gardens.
They create deep burrows where they hoard food and raise their progeny. Connected to one another, the burrows form tunnels, which sometimes can come to tens of yards ruining grassy areas. It’s proven that an average groundhog can shovel over 600 pounds of ground while building a hideout.
Later, when they abandon the burrows, those are utilized by multiple animals, like skunks and hares. What a circle of life, right?
It’s important to underscore that most rodents don’t have the eagerness to harm your household. They might wander to your house in a search for food and shelter. So, if you find yourself swamped, you probably need to reassess your house maintenance and determine which is the best way to get rid of squirrels for your property.
Food
Apart from eating nuts, acorns, and berries, these rodents are great fans of corn and seeds. If you live on a farm and have large grain storage, then it’s no wonder that all kinds of pests come by to grab some.
On the other hand, if you don’t have any grain storages, there are still bushes and cone trees.
Water
Finding nutritious nuts doesn’t usually come the hard way for rodents as they can find quite a few other supplements. However, open water sources may be rather rare in some areas. Subsequently, animals tend to search for places where they can quench their thirst. Such can be puddles, tin cans filled with water, bird feeders, etc.
Shelter
Though burrows and tree forks are key locations of small animals’ nesting, they occasionally choose their hideout somewhere else, as long as it’s: wind and rain-proof, dry, with low humidity, and shaded from the sun.
Having stumbled upon a nice old shed, cabin, or even a piece of old furniture abandoned in a yard, squirrels are likely to try to settle there. In addition, they can crawl into the attic of any old house, should they find a breach.
Mind that any place like that will do, but only in case, it’s enclosed and far from any bustle and humans, of course.
Dangers Coming From Squirrels
If a rodent of this kind has just happened to pass by your garden or house, then you shouldn’t have any concerns. On the other hand, if one of them, or a few, have decided to settle in your premises or are rather keen on visiting your household, then you’d probably want to think again. Because their appearance can be followed by these growing pains:
Trees
Having constant trouble with their teeth – they like to keep them sharp and neat for grinding on nuts and berries. Tree bark is often used as a means of honing them, as well as nutrition.
Bark stripping squirrels usually cause a lot of problems for the trees and people in whose gardens they are planted. This may lead to the disruption or even decay of the top stem layer, resulting in rotting. Moreover, if the bark has been chewed off the surface of a tree, it’s left unprotected against the cold and pests that are eager to infest it.
Vegetation
It’s great luck for humans that squirrels are mostly herbivorous and have no interest in people. But, having one of them in your yard can get quite messy as they do enjoy fruit and vegetables, and sometimes flowers, like orchards. If you think a minute animal like this cannot do much harm to your 20 square feet garden, then beware, because they are very determined. A small group of squirrels can wipe out a whole vegetable patch in a matter of days.
Due to the fact that their sharp, but tiny teeth cannot handle a whole cabbage or apple, they tend to aim at buds and corms. Thus, ruining your probable harvest.
House damage
While looking for a shelter, critters like to occasionally breach your house through cracks in doorways, gutters, ventilation, chimney, etc. Or just enter freely through an open window. They normally prefer storages and barns, where there is little noise, and they feel secure, but they sometimes can get into the attic of a house which is very cozy to them.
As they settle down, the little ones can take a liking to your wiring that they use for their regular teeth routine in order to maintain the sharpness of the teeth. Chewing on it can result in blackouts or completely deprive a house of its electricity supply.
Another material the intruders can find in the attic is insulation. Squirrels are known for defecating and urinating into earthwool or pink batts, thus ruining it and making it hard to renew.
Most intrusions are followed by indoor damages. The rodents use their sharp teeth to grind down beams to make entry points, like holes, for a better movement around the place. This usually makes the damaged sites more vulnerable to weather conditions and exposes the wiring to rains.
If a critter has managed to stay unnoticed for a long enough period of time, it leaves a lot of biomaterials, such as feces and urine. These always cause odors and unpleasant smells not only in the attic but all over the house. Exposure to the wastes can be harmful to both people and pets as they may contain rodent-borne diseases.
Diseases
Squirrels are rarely known to be aggressive besides the times when they can start catapulting nuts and twigs at people who have disturbed their peace at the burrow. However, these rodents can bite an intruder as an act of self-preservation.
The danger is not the bites themselves, but certain directly transmitted diseases that can come with them. Here is a list of sicknesses that have occasionally been caused by a bite or an interaction with them:
Leptospirosis. Generally caused by coming in contact with rodents’ urine or feces, this disease can be a real risk to one’s health if left untreated. Symptoms include a range of mild and harsh conditions, such as high body temperature, rash, underlying digestion conditions, etc. It can result in major brain inflammation and death. If identified, it requires urgent medical interference and strong medication treatment.
Lyme disease. Though rodents aren’t actually inflicted by the sickness, they can be carriers of ticks and leeches that can transmit it. In case a tick travels from to humans and bites the latter, it can result in drowsiness, body pains, yellow pigmentations around the eyes and mouth, etc. Timely treatment usually eradicates the danger; otherwise, it can lead to gruesome outcomes.
Typhus. In terms of transmission, typhus is another illness that is spread by various parasites that can inhabit fur. The disease is rarely encountered with squirrels as carriers, but, if it is, then it may cause an epidemic of the worst kind due to its contagiousness. The leading symptoms are rashes, a headache, fever, troubled breathing, and vomiting.
Rabies. As it’s prone to progressing rapidly and, if treated untimely, is known to result in death, rabies poses a real threat to any human. Squirrels are rarely diagnosed with this condition, but they still can be carriers. The first symptoms comprise a list of manifestations that resemble a mild seasonal cold, such as a headache, drowsiness, and fever. As it progresses, rabies can cause paralysis, both somnolence and insomnia, and brain inflammation.
Treatments for Removing Squirrels
If any of the previously stated damages or signs are applicable to you, then you need to know how to get rid of squirrels because you’ve infested. So, what can be used as a fight-back tool for driving the rodents away?
Traps
Yes, you might think it’s an old-fashioned way. But, trapping is 100% effective for getting rid of squirrels for good. Modern squirrel traps are designed specifically to incapacitate a rodent without hurting it if that’s what you’re worried about. Later, you can extract it and set it free or finish it.
Coming in all varieties of sizes, materials, and shapes, a trap can be placed anywhere you need rodents to be extracted from. So, you can stop worrying about how to get rid of squirrels in the attic.
Spray-repellents
This option is suitable in case you need to deal with squirrels infesting your garden or vegetable patch. Most squirrel repellents contain both natural and chemical substances that most rodents find repulsing. When using one of those, you don’t need to worry about getting messy as naturally infused repellents don’t leave any stains on clothing and fabrics.
Easy to use, it can be sprayed on plants, trees, vegetables, etc. without causing any harm to flora and fauna of your lot.
Ultrasonic Repellents
Modern technology offers quite a lot these days, including devices that help you fight pests avoiding the use of any chemicals. Ultrasonic devices are meant to create unfavorable circumstances for pests’ senses that force them to evade such areas.
Using specific frequencies, ultra repellents aim at designated species of rodents that assure safety for your pets.If you’re not sure how to deter squirrels from the house, this may be an answer. Since the repellents vary in sizes, they can be set at places that are the least reachable for humans.
They are affordable and don’t require recharging, thus making them reliable 24/7 guards of your property.
Poison
You might want to apply poison as an actual squirrel killing option, should anything else be not effective. Again, it’s easy to use and can be placed at the most inaccessible sites.
The majority of squirrel poisons are of a similar constituency to other rodent poisons and have a very distinct smell that many animals recognize. For this, it’s recommended to disguise it with bait, something that an intruder would gratefully consume.
You can always strive for a double effect by putting poison in a trap so that a chance of a squirrel’s survival is completely eliminated.
Natural Кemedies
As a substitute for devices and treatments specifically designed for squirrel eradication, you can always apply natural substances and essences. However, alternative pesticides might not be the best way how to get rid of squirrel since mulch, vinegar, peppermint, and safflower seeds are recommended for repelling rodents; they can act less effectively than other means.
Top 6 Squirrel Treatments
1. Havahart 1077 Easy Set One-Door Cage Trap – Best Squirrel Trap
The Havahart 1077 trap is a resourceful helper for dealing with squirrels and other minute rodents. Equipped with a one-set handle, it’s extremely easy to use and doesn’t require any previous trap-setting experience.
Made from high-quality steel, the trap can be set both at indoor and outdoor sites regardless of weather conditions. Its small size is a great fit for places that are hard to access with bare hands, which ensures usefulness for squirrel control of lawns, yards, attics, and close to the house areas.
The device is contrived specifically for safe and handy use. When a critter is trapped inside, there is no chance it’ll hurt itself since the trap’s designed to seclude a critter, but not to hurt it in any way.
Pros:
Cons:
small-sized, can be placed both in the attic and in the garden;
harmless to squirrels with easy access to the captives;
doesn’t require an instruction or experience to be set up.
can contain up to 3 squirrels.
2. Rugged Ranch Squirrelinator Trap – Assistance in Removing Squirrels
Have you been bothered by a whole pack of squirrels, not just 1? Then the Rugged Squirrelinator can come in handy. The trap has the capacity to accommodate over 20 squirrels at the same time and is equipped with a plastic water bowl that will keep them refreshed.
When a squirrel finds a bait inside, e.g. nuts, berries, seeds, etc., it pushes itself into the trap-gate all the way through. However, going back isn’t an option anymore.
If you’re more radical and aiming at eradicating your squirrel infestation for good, it’s always possible to add poison to your bait, so that you don’t have to worry about critters at all.
Due to its spacious dimensions, the appliance can be used for large households and placed anywhere on the property; moreover, it can be easily disguised by using various materials that squirrels find attractive, e.g. wood logs, vegetation, etc.
Pros:
Cons:
has a large capacity;
a water bowl is provided;
has a handle to carry the cage;
built of high-quality, durable materials.
cannot be used inside a house.
3. Rodent Vehicle Natural Repellent – Powerful Squirrel Control
Active Ingredients: Peppermint Oil 0.32%, Rosemary Oil 0.21%
Item Form: Spray
Item Weight: 2.16 pounds
Package Dimensions: 10.87 x 5 x 3.82 inches
Target Species: Rodents
The Rodent Vehicle Repellent is a cutting-edge treatment that knows how to repel squirrels. The rodents have a tendency to chew on wiring and cables to grind down their sharp teeth, thus damaging essential electronic devices. Whereas the spray is meant to repulse critters from your car, truck, boat, or any other vehicle.
The repellent is a combination of natural essences and oils that most rodents find disgusting, if not threatening; however, it’s absolutely pleasant to a human nose. Thanks to a formula that includes no chemical-based components, it can be applied both inside and outside a vehicle. It doesn’t leave any stains or corrupt metal surfaces, which makes it a great tool in a fight against squirrels.
Pros:
Cons:
covers vast areas;
fast and comfortable to use;
economical, applicable for multiple uses;
harmless to metals and insulation;
has a long-lasting effect.
is not recommended to be used inside a house.
4. Diaotec Squirrel Repellent Ultrasonic – Sonic Repellent to Scare Away Squirrels
No products found.
As the popularity of Ultrasonic Repellents is growing exponentially, the Diaotec Repellent offers an effective solution against critters. The device will, for sure, scare away squirrels from your property using high-volume ultrasounds that aggravate and daunt rodents. The repellent has a wide operational area that, mostly, covers average-sized lawns and yards.
The Diaotec Repellent has three modes that work on specific pest types, like mice, squirrels, as well as mites and parasites. Moreover, it includes a test mode that ensures the possibility of checking the operational capacity of the device.
You don’t need to wait until you get a squirrel infestation, for this appliance can be a prevention utility, too. The location doesn’t matter, since it can be placed in a house, an open area, a food court, etc.
Pros:
Cons:
completely environmentally friendly;
effective for a wide range of pests;
pets don’t hear the frequencies.
sensitive to water.
5. I Must Garden Squirrel Repellent – Natural Squirrel Deterrent
The I Must Repellent is another great natural squirrel deterrent solution. It contains no harmful synthetic substances and is completely safe for the environment. The repellent is highly versatile as you can apply it both inside and outside the house. Its composition is 100% natural and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as: securing your land lots and garden, or yard, from squirrels and other kinds of critters.
You can spread it around vegetation, plants, and trees without risking to pollute them with anything harmful. Moreover, it can be used indoors for furniture, bedding, basements and attics.
The container is meant for long-time use, thus making it economical.
Pros:
Cons:
100% suitable for plants and vegetation;
works regardless of weather conditions;
can also be applied in vehicles;
odd-free.
works only on certain types of rodents.
6. Farnam Just One Bite Chunks – Best Poison for Squirrels
The Farnam Chunks is a radical answer to the question ‘How to kill squirrels for sure?’ Bulky pieces that make up the pack are meant to work as both bait and a solution in a fight against rodents. As squirrels consume them, they have the average 1-3 days before the poison kicks in, sometimes even within hours.
The treatment has a smell that is pleasant for squirrels though it’s easily combined with additional baits, like wood, nuts, berries, etc. The particles are for outdoor and away-from-the-children purposes only and have proven to be highly effective for eliminating cheeky rodents.
Pros:
Cons:
efficient and prompt as a permanent solution;
can be placed as closely to squirrels’ nests as possible;
resistant to water;
doesn’t expire over time.
requires sufficient consumption for lethality.
Prevention: How to Keep Squirrels Away
In order to scare away squirrels, it’s essential to follow some guidelines that can save you a lot of time and make your property critter-proof.
Seal all possible holes and entrances that can help the pests get into the house, such as chimneys, ventilation exits, cracked window frames, etc.
Cover tree trunks up to 6ft in plastic or metal cases; this will disable rodents from climbing them.
Use mulch and essences, like peppermint, to enclose areas around plants, grass and low vegetation to repel critters that like to feed on them.
Eliminate all sources of standing water e.g. old bottles and tin cans, bird feeders (or use squirrel-proof feeders), dog water bowls, etc.
Avoid keeping uncovered timber and wood logs pile in the yard, as well as seeds of any kind.
Trim dense bushes and abundant vegetation.
Put anti-squirrel scare-crows i.e., plastic owls, eagles, and other large birds.
Install sprinklers and lawn LED lights to scare them if they come around.
FAQs
Are Squirrels Dangerous to Humans?
Not directly. They don’t attack humans, apart from infrequent cases when they feel a threat; they cause costly damage to households and property, as well as live on vegetation and spread various illnesses.
Varying from species to species, an average squirrel lives from 4 to 6 years.
What Do Squirrels Eat?
Small fruit and vegetable corms, nuts, berries, tree bark, etc.
Do Squirrels Make Noise?
Yes, squirrels are one of the noisiest types of rodents. They use their high-pitch voices to communicate location and warn one another about upcoming dangers.
Do Coffee Grounds Keep Squirrels Away?
In fact, they do. A recent study has shown that the smell of coffee so alluring to humans is quite aversive for squirrels.
How to Get Rid of Squirrels Without Killing Them?
Catch them by using a trap and let them go later, though they might come back earlier. You may also utilize an ultrasonic or a spray repellent. They are just the job.
Bottom Line
Again, I believe the information above can come in handy for you.
Regardless of how cute and harmless squirrels may seem, they can pose a real danger to your house, garden, and even health. If you find yourself in a confrontation with these rodents, you need to act quickly without hesitation.
Because protecting your peace from them has to be a priority, you shouldn’t be picky about choosing means of dealing with an infestation of any scale.
What do you think about the treatments suggested above? Have you happened to find any other ways of repelling/killing squirrels? Comment below, I would love to hear about your experience! Stay safe!
References:
Types of Squirrels (Drexel University): http://www.pages.drexel.edu/~lb487/class/types.html
Squirrels and Chipmunks (National Park Colorado): https://www.nps.gov/romo/learn/nature/squirrel_chipmunk.htm
Bark Stripping Squirrels (University of Florida): https://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/hort/2017/05/18/bark-stripping-squirrels/
Diseases directly transmitted by rodents (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): https://www.cdc.gov/rodents/diseases/direct.html
Alternative Pesticides (Salt Lake City Sustainabilite): https://www.slc.gov/sustainability/pesticidefree/alternative-pesticides/
If you’re desperate to tackle pesky squirrels that have wreaked havoc on your home, you’re in luck. Today, I’m going to provide you with the best solutions to protect your property with the aid of squirrel poison.
This post will not only cover the types of poison you need, but will also address all your questions such as where to put it for the most effective result, how to get the squirrels to actually eat it, and more. Let’s get started and see what miracles a bit of the right type of poison can do!
Essentially, I am going to share a lot of tricks to keep squirrels away. You know how troublesome squirrels can be, so carry on reading if you would like to discover more about eliminating them from your premises.
Although squirrels may be sweet and cuddly in appearance, they can be quite destructive in a home. To prevent them from choosing your property as their new home, it is important to take the necessary steps to banish them.
Here is a list of 5 great squirrel poisons, which are notable for all of their major characteristics. Research each one, and decide which one is right for you and your situation.
1. JT Eaton Blocks: Excellent Squirrel Bait Poison – Top Pick
This bucket of rodenticide weighs 9 lbs and has nutty-flavored chunks that squirrels and other critters can’t resist snacking on. You may not see the results right away, it may even take a few weeks, just be patient.
Your invading squirrels will keep returning multiple times to gobble up more of the poison which will ultimately be fatal.
The JT Eaton blocks – a bright green solution to pesky rodent infestations! Not only will the vibrant color prevent accidental confusion with food, but it also contains a specially formulated poison that is potent enough to effectively eliminate squirrels and other rodents.
While state regulations ensure that the poison is not overly hazardous, it is still important to keep the blocks out of reach of children and domestic animals for their safety.
When your supply runs low, remember to restock for continued protection against unwanted critters. Say goodbye to squirrel problems and hello to a rodent-free home with JT Eaton blocks.
Pros:
Cons:
proven efficiency;
easy application;
kills squirrels, along with rats, mice, and chipmunks;
this poison isn’t as strong as in previously mentioned products;
it’s quite affordable.
should be kept out of reach of pets and children;
the container is rather small.
2. Contrac Blox Rodent Control: Professional Squirrel Killer
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.35 x 13.5 x 11.35 inches
Target Species: Rats and Mice
Tired of pesky squirrels wreaking havoc in your yard or garden? Look no further than Contrac Blox rodenticide. Endorsed by local exterminators, this powerful solution effectively targets squirrels, mice, and rats, ensuring a squirrel-free space in no time.
Contrac Blox – the ultimate solution for your rodent control needs. Not only is it easy to handle, but it’s also highly effective in eliminating squirrels and other pests. But be warned, it’s not just the rodents you need to protect yourself from – Contrac Blox is also dangerous for pets and children. That’s why we recommend using locking bait stations to keep your loved ones safe. And don’t forget to wear your work gloves when handling the solution to protect your skin.
If you’re looking for reliable and effective squirrel bait, Contrac Blox is the way to go. With an 18-lb bucket, it’s perfect for larger areas like farms, ranches, and warehouses. But even if you’re a homeowner, it’s still worth giving it a try. With Contrac Blox, you can say goodbye to pesky rodents and enjoy a pest-free home for good.
Pros:
Cons:
this rodenticide works when all other methods fail;
application is a breeze;
long-lasting effect;
works on mice and rats, too;
works inside and outside your home.
a bit on the expensive side, but worth every dime;
Say goodbye to pesky squirrels in your yard with the powerful Tomcat All-Weather Bait Chunx. This anticoagulant rodenticide not only effectively eliminates squirrels, but also takes care of other unwanted visitors such as chipmunks and mice. Get your property back with the reliable and efficient Tomcat All-Weather Bait Chunx.
Bothersome squirrels making a mess in your garden and attic with the strong and weather-proof Tomcat toxin. Whether it’s inside or outside your property, this bucket is the solution to your squirrel control needs. Don’t wait any longer to take matters into your own hands and give Tomcat a try for guaranteed results against squirrels and other rodents.
Yield: Each 18 lb. Bucket has approx. 400 (20 gram) blox
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.15 x 12.15 x 12.76 inches
Target Species: Rats and Mice
Just like the previous two rodenticides, this squirrel bait killer also takes one bite to work. It has proven to work effectively both inside and outside your property, in private homes and industrial environments. Since this squirrel poison comes in an 18-lb bucket, you can use lots of it on your property (with some sense of measure in mind, of course).
I recommend using this poison with bait boxes only. Make sure you study its label prior to using the Final Blox Squirrel bait. Each state in the U.S. has different rules in terms of rodenticide usage. You should be aware of them in order to follow them.
All in all, a lot of licensed exterminators use Final Blox professionally. And it takes a very small amount to do the job, so this stuff is a keeper.
Pros:
Cons:
very effective and works immediately;
application is as easy as ABC;
weather-resistant;
one-bite-only option;
long-lasting effect.
poisonous for kids and pets.
5. Neogen Rodenticide Ramik Nuggets: Save Your Home From Ground Squirrels
Primarily, Neogen Rodenticide Ramik Nuggets are designed as rat poison. However, these exceptionally versatile rodent poison pellets have proven to work on squirrels brilliantly as well. Even though with this poison, killing squirrels takes some time, it eliminates them in a very reliable manner, without any need for more traps or poisons.
These pellets are water-proof, which means they won’t dissolve in the rain like most other squirrel baits. Keep in mind that Neogen Rodenticide Ramik Nuggets are dangerous to use around children and domestic animals.
So make sure you approach this issue wisely when you purchase this highly effective mice, rat, and squirrel killer. Overall, these pellets are powerful enough to help you get rid of squirrels long-term.
Pros:
Cons:
effective and versatile;
suitable for both indoor and outdoor use;
exceptionally easy to handle;
damp-proof and overall weather-resistant;
don’t require any extra rodent traps and/or baits.
don’t work immediately, but the results are worth the wait;
not safe in the proximity of kids and pets.
Buyer’s Guide
How to Poison Squirrels in the Most Effective Way?
Choosing the best poison is the key to eradicating your squirrel problem. If squirrels have invaded your garden, make sure you opt for the baits and poison options that are water-resistant. Otherwise, they may dissolve in the rain without delivering the desired effect.
Once you stick with the right product for your needs, don’t forget that all squirrel poisons contain chemicals that are dangerous to use around your cats, dogs, and little family members.
Always wear your work gloves when handling squirrel poisons and baits. Apply poison products only where you’ve noticed squirrel activity. If you’re using a one-bite bait, then poisoning squirrels in your yard or your attic will only take a few days.
With weaker poisons, you’re going to wait longer. In either case, always study the product label prior to using any squirrel poison solution. The label covers such issues as application methods, storage specifics, and disposal instructions.
And don’t forget to walk on the safe side in terms of how the state where you live regulates poisoning squirrels, for each state has its own ground squirrel management guidelines.
What Are the Main Squirrel Poison Types?
There are two main squirrel poison types: single (one-bite) feed and multiple feed. Just like their names suggest, they refer to a certain number of times a pesky fluffy animal has to munch on the poisonous ‘dessert’ for it to work.
The single feed poison baits require only a few bites to deliver great results, while the multiple feed poison baits mean it’s going to take more than just one feeding for the pesky invaders to leave this world (and, most importantly, leave your home alone!) due to the poison effects.
What About the Safety Measures?
Squirrels spread health hazards, contaminate food, and damage your home. Therefore, effective squirrel control is paramount. However, you should always remember that rodenticides are toxic and understand the risks of using these poisons around kids and pets.
The best way to reduce the risks of getting your loved ones poisoned is by following each individual poison product label. The label has all the necessary details on product application and use. Some squirrel poisons, for example, can be used with bait stations — handy devices that prevent domestic animals and your little family members from accessing the poison.
There’s a boatload of squirrel poisons on the market. But based on years of personal experience and industry testing results, I’ve managed to boil this wide selection down to five excellent squirrel poison products that are sure to help you eradicate the problem completely. Don’t forget to share your opinion on the products I’ve reviewed once you test-drive them.
Perhaps, you’ve already found the perfect squirrel pesticide for you? Then you’re welcome to share your review on it in the comments section below. I’m always glad to receive any kind of feedback from my readers. In case you have questions about rodent control or want to know more about the best ways to get rid of squirrels in the attic, bookmark my blog and stay tuned for updates!
References:
Pesticides (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences): https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/pesticides/index.cfm
Rodenticides (National Pesticide Information Center): http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/rodenticides.html
Let’s face it – getting rid of ground squirrels is nothing short of a Herculean task. Their cute, fluffy appearance and Disneyesque appeal are the first underwater stone you’ll face in the upcoming battle. One simply can’t eliminate ground squirrels in cold blood.
Even if you felt the necessity to deal with the infestation and set on acting tough finally, the number of potential solutions would be out of this world. Yes, a plethora of options at your fingertips may seem like a good thing, but in our case, it’s more of a burden. Diversity leads to uncertainty.
To add insult to injury, there are some options that either don’t work putting you back in square state, or which is even worse, are capable of harming other animals and one’s pets. Ground squirrel control is not to be trifled with. Luckily, this guide is designed to arm you with the necessary knowledge, weapons, and skills.
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Set one of the traps: Bait Trap, Zap Trap or Body Grip.
Use trap bait.
Use gas infusion.
Spray plants with a ground squirrels repellent.
Sprinkle your yard with Cayenne pepper or paprika.
Decorate your lawn with mulch, gravel, or decorative rocks.
Fence your lawn with a mesh/fencing option.
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What Are Ground Squirrels?
Ground squirrels are the members of the squirrel family of rodents that prefer to live on the ground rather than nesting high in the trees. These animals are known for digging complex networks of tunnels under the ground and harassing hard-working farmers.
Where Do Ground Squirrels Live?
Many animals live underground. Several species of rodents and even some types of snakes enjoy the cozy, moist suburbs under your backyard. How can you tell to whom a particular cavern belongs?
Most animal-made holes have distinct characteristics. The difference is obvious to an attentive eye.
What Do Ground Squirrel Holes Look Like?
Ground squirrels will use your lawn as a storage facility. Their tunnels hold a wide array of foods and supplies the little rascal has stockpiled for the colder months. This means a squirrel will do its best to camouflage the entrance to prevent others from feasting on the fruit of the pest’s hard work.
The entrance to a ground squirrel hole doesn’t surpass two or three inches. The hole will seem shallow, and there’ll be little to none surrounding soil. These caverns are hard to find, but if you stumble upon at least one, it is very much a telltale sign that an underground squirrel infestation is around the corner.
What Are the Risks a Squirrel Infestation Poses?
Squirrels are not as nasty as rats. They are not as threatening as termites. However, their fluffy fur hides as many dangers. Squirrels carry many fleas who, in turn, are known for spreading a variety of lethal diseases.
A squirrel hole can be as deep as 30 feet. Imagine what a couple dozen holes under your house can do to the foundation.
Lastly, squirrels love to get their tiny clawed hands on as many foods as they can. This poses a real threat to your crops and even decorative plants you’ve spent years growing from the tiniest sapling. How to deter ground squirrels, you may ask?
What Do Ground Squirrels Eat?
These rodents are not picky eaters. They’ll munch pretty much anything they can find; however, the animals prefer:
Nuts
Grains
Fresh fruits and vegetables
How to Kill Ground Squirrels and Humane Extermination Options
I’ve had a friend who moved to a woodland area some time ago. He faced his most fearsome enemy there – squirrels. The pests have been devastating his little hand-made garden for months. Jerry tried using a BB gun to control their population to no effect. Not only did two squirrels come in the place of their one fallen comrade, the hunting process as a whole felt inhumane.
Despite being an amazing shot, Jerry couldn’t stand the sight of a dead animal. He tried hosing the pests then – Jerry simply opened a valve and flooded their holes. They have escaped the watery hell only to return in a couple of weeks. Jerry still had food.
The man decided to do what we, humans, do best. He adapted. My friend quickly learned how to trap ground squirrels. And he switched to a more professional selection of pest extermination solutions.
The value of traps combined with effective squirrel poisons was now his to wield. Do I need to say the problem appeared no more?
We will focus on some of the tools Jerry used in his fight against the fierce wilderness a little bit later. For now, we will discuss the kinds of squirrel traps that are available to you.
Bait Trap
The science behind this trap is simple. You’ll be using a container or another mechanism with food in it. The bait lures the prey, and you claim the trophy. It’s as simple as that. It’s the most humane option.
Zap Trap
These devices usually contain two metal plates and a battery. The point is to electrocute a pest once it is inside. These traps are usually covered with plastic in order to protect the insides from rain.
Body Grip
A body grip is a trap you place outside a squirrel hole. It is triggered once the animal pokes its head out of the burrow. The solution is effective, but somewhat grisly so avoid it if you are faint of heart.
Gas Infusion
This is one of the most effective methods you can use to get rid of ground squirrels. It is similar in nature to flooding with the exception of using gas or smoke instead of water. The gas will also leave a scent that is unpleasant to animals so you’ll be safe from rodents for a while. Do note that this method requires extreme caution as you probably don’t want to spoil the land.
Best Ground Squirrels Control Remedies
Now that we’ve covered the “who” and the “why” issues, let’s answer the most important question most of you have probably asked by now – how to do it? How to get rid of ground squirrels in my yard?
These remedies should do the trick. They’ve helped me over and over again throughout the entirety of my career in pest control, so I am sure they will do the trick for you as well.
1. Bonide Repels-All Ready to Use – the Best Ground Squirrel Repellent
The Bonide (BND238) Repels-All Animal Repellent is designed to protect your plants from several species of animals including elks, deer, chipmunks and, of course, ground squirrels. A single bottle is enough to spray 1000+ 1-foot-high plants.
The repellent is safe for humans so you can apply it to fruit and vegetable plants. However, I would suggest against spraying it over edible species.
Bonide is best applied before the animal browse begins so use it at the very beginning of the growing season. The solution is to be reapplied every two weeks, otherwise, the effect will wear off.
The formula is based on dried blood and vegetable oils producing sticky scent most animals dislike. Repels-All is made in the US.
Pros:
Cons:
multi-purpose;
simple in application;
natural ingredients;
safe for humans;
an effective, proactive measure.
not optimal for pet owners;
has a nasty smell when applied.
2. Gonzo 100518702 – the Best Ground Squirrel Trap
This rust-resistant squirrel trap plays a trick on the animal’s survival instinct. The device is shaped like a tube – a naturally safe place most rodents will run into to hide. In addition to being resistant to rust, the trap is armor-coated to prevent it from weather-related wear & tear.
The tube is small in diameter which is great news for dog lovers. Your fluffy friends will not be able to stick their noses into the tube trying to reach for the dead squirrel. The trap is painstakingly simple in use, and it is as reliable as an iron hammer.
Do note that this trap does not simply capture pests. It is lethal to every rodent deciding to stroll inside for a quick snack. Judging from my personal experience, a single trap will catch you two to four squirrels per week.
Pros:
Cons:
longevity;
armored coating;
clever tube-like design;
safe for dog lovers.
slightly more expensive than a run in the mill rodent trap.
3. Contrac Blox Rodent Control Rodenticide – the Best Poison Bait for Ground Squirrels
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.35 x 13.5 x 11.35 inches
Target Species: Rats and Mice
This poison offers the perfect balance between good-smelling bits of yummy rodent food and paraffin – a particularly effective, yet safe-ish pest killer. The bait lasts for a long time. There is no need to refill traps for one and a half to two months.
Paraffin is safe to the touch, and it is not toxic. The formula has little to no effect on non-target animals.
Pros:
Cons:
effective against rodents;
safe for humans;
safe for most domestic animals;
the antidote is readily available (Vitamin K).
may take a while to get rid of a serious infestation.
4. Tomcat Bait Station – the Best Ground Squirrel Bait Station
A decent rodenticide and a bait station might be the best way to get rid of ground squirrels hustle-free. And Tomcat is one of the superior solutions the market has to offer.
Open the lid, add the bait, put the trap near the place of squirrel activity, and feel free to enjoy a sip of well-earned, ice-cold lemonade. The lid is designed with protection against children and animals, so you are safe to leave the station in your backyard.
Pros:
Cons:
durable plastic;
safe for children;
simple in use;
efficient.
doesn’t look too slick for some people’s taste.
5. Atlas Giant Destroyer 00333 Gas Bomb – One of the Best Gas Bombs for Exterminating Ground Squirrels
Contains: 4 cartridges per card, 2 cards per pack. 8 total tubes
Cartridge Size: 2 oz each
Item Weight: 9.6 ounces
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.3 x 9.2 x 7 inches
Target Species: Gophers, Moles, Woodchucks, Rats, Skunks, and Ground Squirrels
These gas bombs are designed for smoking pests from their underground tunnels. The gas does not damage plant roots. Moreover, the cartridges can be extinguished with water if lit accidentally. The gas bomb is a quick and effective solution to deal with an ongoing infestation.
Pros:
Cons:
very effective;
deals with large-scale infestations;
quick results;
100% smoke-filled holes.
stinks;
not safe for children.
How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels Naturally?
Except their peculiar teeth, rodents are known for their survivability. Therefore, getting rid of an infestation with non-lethal force is a particularly tedious process.
The first thing you are to remember as a humane squirrel hunter is that these pests will always return as long as there’s “free food” within their grasp. So if you or anyone from your family has a particularly kind heart and is feeding the cute little fuzz balls, the squirrels will never leave.
On the other hand, a slight twist on the formula can do miracles. Choose a fitting spot that’s far from your home and repurpose it into an all-you-can-eat squirrel buffet. There won’t be a reason for the rodents to invade your property if there are nuts, acorns, and other snacks lying around in the woods.
Then sprinkle your yard with Cayenne pepper or paprika. Most animals can’t stand the smell of pepper.
Alternatively, you can decorate your lawn with mulch, gravel, or decorative rocks. There can’t be any ground squirrels if there’s no ground to dig holes in, right?
Lastly, there’s the netting/fencing option. On the bright side, you’ll keep your precious fruits and vegetables safe from squirrels, birds, and pesky neighbors. On the downside, a fence might not fit into your home’s design. But hey, at least your ground squirrel problems are over!
FAQ
Do Squirrels Dig Tunnels?
Some species of squirrels do dig holes in the ground in order to store food. Ground squirrels in particular are known for digging entire labyrinths of caverns.
How to Fill Ground Squirrel Holes?
One cannot fill a squirrel hole with ground, as it is merely an entrance to a larger underground maze. It is better to use a combination of water and a sand solution in order to fill the tunnel in its entirety.
How to Get Rid of Ground Squirrels Without Killing Them?
Getting rid of squirrels without harming them is a tedious process, but it is possible. Use a combination of natural pest control practices such as sprinkling your yard with cayenne pepper, covering the area with mulch, gravel, or decorative rocks, and installing netting or fencing.
These tiny critters do not harm one’s household directly, but they are always hungry and happy to get more food stocked for winter. Therefore, these pests are capable of harming your trees, plants, and vegetables.
More on the matter, these squirrels are rodents. They are categorized by their continuously growing teeth. A squirrel can chew sprinkler heads, wires, or cables simply to scratch an itch.
Are Digger Squirrels a Threat to Humans?
A single squirrel is potentially harmless. A healthy specimen will run away from humans.
However, a larger population poses a threat to human health. Squirrels carry a plethora of diseases and fleas, which, in turn, can be a source of the devastating bubonic plague.
Will Rat Poison Kill Squirrels?
Depending on the type of the active poison in the formula, a solution designed for killing rats may kill squirrels. That being said, rat poisons are not designed for this purpose, ergo it may be ineffective.
Ground squirrels may look cute, but a rodent infestation poses a serious threat. From spreading contagious diseases through fleas to damaging the structure of your home’s foundation, the squirrel fever is not a force to be trifled with. Luckily, now you know about the dangers behind the fluffy tails of cute squirrels and, more importantly, you are armed with the arsenal of lethal and natural solutions to your liking.
Which tools would you prefer? Are you a fan of natural anti-squirrel measures or would you rather tend to lethal force in order to keep your home safe and sound? Or, maybe, you haven’t made up your mind just yet? Don’t hesitate and ask if you still have any remaining questions.
References:
Ground Squirrel (University of California): http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7438.html
Squirrels (Michael Mengak, University of Georgia): https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/gotpests/othercritters/squirrel.htm
Rodents (Michigan State University Pesticide Education): https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/uploads/files/Community_and_Schools_PDFs/rodentfs.pdf
Hey there. Today I want to help you solve an attic squirrel problem. These rodents are good jumpers and can climb a wall in a few seconds. The squirrel nests on the roof are a widespread issue because the population of squirrels is big, and they search for the warm shelter quite frequently.
They damage the electrical cables and can carry some dangerous diseases. They also like to crunch wood furniture or walls. As you see, you better protect your house from the squirrel attack, and I will describe the best methods to you.
The rodents we talk about today are medium-sized with a long tail and vivid coloring. There are several types of squirrels, but not all of them want to live in your house. The most common species that tend to get to the roofs and cause damage are grey squirrel and red squirrel.
Their population is large, that’s why they sometimes need to find a shelter in a human house. I would tell you more about these rodents and how to identify them.
Eastern gray squirrel is common in the North America area. It is a tree squirrel that has grey and sometimes brown fur. The coloration of its underbelly is white, just like any other squirrel’s underbelly. It also has a big fluffy tail. The size of the body is between 9.1 and 11.8 inches, and the tail is the same measurement.
Gray squirrel hoards food in different places for the latest safekeeping. They consume tree bark, berries, various types of nuts and seeds, etc. They have strong teeth that may damage the trees and some solid plants. These squirrels can appear in your attic because they search for a warm place. They may use your attic as a nest for wintertime and cause damage by chewing the electrical cables or wood furniture.
The red squirrel is smaller than the gray one and has a height of about 8 to 9 inches. It also has a bushy tail that helps to balance while jumping and keep warm during the sleep. These squirrels are usually red, but the color varies due to the time of year and location: Its winter fur is darker and thicker.
The belly is white, and the animal also has whitish circles around the eyes and ear tufts, in which it differs from the grey squirrel. They have curved claws which they use to get to the roof climbing the walls.
Their diet includes mostly the seeds, hazelnuts, and some other nuts, berries, and young shoots. Red squirrels are active during the day when they search for food. They, like all squirrels, look for a place for their nest before the winter comes and may occupy your attic. Fortunately, there are many opportunities to protect your house.
How to Detect a Squirrel?
Squirrels are quite noisy neighbors, so it is easy to detect them at the moment they appear. They need to get to the roof, and they make this by climbing the walls. You may detect them when they are only trying to get to your house because they will make a loud sound.
If you did not see how the squirrels get to the attic, but you think they can be there, the first sign is the sound of scurrying on the roof. When the squirrels find the place to live, they tend to make a nest. That’s why they need to get away to collect the materials and then return. They are active during the day, so you will hear them.
If you have children or pets, for example, dogs, it may be harder to detect the noise squirrels make. In this case, try to decrease the activity in your home for some time, but don’t get close to the attic because the squirrels may get scared.
When you are sure that someone is living on your roof, you should go and search for other signs. You may find the footprints near the windows or other open spaces. But it is not always easy to see them. In case you did not detect anything, you may put some flour on the stuff in the attic, where it is possible for a squirrel to leave the footprint.
Wait for one day, and if you see medium-sized footmarks, be sure it is a squirrel. It may also be mice, but their feet are smaller, and they are active at night. It is important to see a difference because you need to know what pests to fight and what pest control products to use.
Another sign of the squirrel is droppings on the floor. If you detect some unpleasant smell and you see the animal excrement, you need to take quick steps. The first reason is the damage they can cause to the electricity and construction of your home.
But what is more important, they may carry various diseases. When you clean after the squirrel or any other rodent, always wear gloves. After you made sure the animals are in your house, you should choose the best way to remove them.
How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Attic?
I will provide the step-by-step guide which is easy to apply, and repel squirrels from attic. It consists of four steps and a list of remedies from which you can choose what to use. All the products will work effectively, and it only depends on your preferences.
Step 1
The first step is to find entry points around the home, especially in the attic. Squirrels get to the attic by climbing on the walls or jumping from the trees. They rarely will enter your main entrance, so you should search for the open space on the roof. It could be windows, tubes, crack in the wall or floor.
Step 2
The next step is to seal all the entry points except one. You need to do this to allow the squirrels to run away after they smell the repellent. You may use old cloth or furniture to close all the entries. It is not necessary to do if you use traps, but this may prevent the attack of the other squirrels.
Step 3
After you make sure all the open spaces are closed, you need to trim all tree branches near the roof. Squirrels are good jumpers, so you should cut all the long limbs. It is an important step because squirrels may be afraid to get to the roof using the walls. The noise people make can scare them. But using the tree branches, they may easily get to your attic.
Step 4
The last step is to apply the repellent or set a trap to catch a squirrel. You may choose from the living cages, that are organic and won’t hurt the animals. There is also a variant to use the ultrasonic repellent that frightens the pest with pressure waves.
Сhemical repellents will scare the squirrels away with their strong smell. You can also use the poison that attracts squirrels with its taste, but I don’t recommend using it inside as rodents may die in a hard-to-reach place. All these remedies are easy-to-use and provide effective protection from rodents.
Best Attic Squirrels Control Remedies
Havahart 1077 Easy Set One-Door Cage Trap for Squirrels and Small Rabbits – Best Squirrel Live Trap
The Havahart manufacturer knows how to get squirrels out of attic. Most of the company’s electronic traps do not harm the pets and other living species and save your energy. Havahart team strives to create more and more innovations developing effective technologies to control the wildlife.
The cage is the best way to get rid of squirrels in the attic. The construction allows catching only the specific animals, so the trap won’t work on mice or rats. It has a spring-controlled door and triggers that react to movement and quickly close the cage.
You will easily transport the cage because it has a comfortable handle that will protect you from contact with the animal. The smooth edges allow keeping squirrels safe inside the trap.
Pros:
Cons:
does not harm the animals;
easy-to-use;
specific for the squirrels.
not fast-acting.
Diaotec Squirrel Repellent Ultrasonic Rodents and Squirrels Repeller – Best Squirrel Ultrasonic Repellent
Diaotec squirrel repeller was created to protect your house from the rodents using the intermittent ultrasonic sounds. This product is safe for pets and children. Releasing the acoustic wave and 25KHz-60KH ultrasonic wave, it can get squirrels out of the roof.
The construction of the repellent allows you to secure your home all-season and covers from 5,000 to 6000 sq. ft. You may use it not only in the attic but also in your whole house, in the apartment, or any other indoor space. The product has a four-function switch. You can check what sounds the pest hears and how properly the repellent work – it is the first mode.
The “trans” function is the most effective in fighting the squirrels in roof space because it uses the pressure waves which irritate them. The ultrasonic sound is better to use when you want to repel the smaller rodents or insects. You may apply the repeller also when you want to prevent the attack of squirrels.
Pros:
Cons:
сovers a big area;
safe for people and environment;
four functions;
protects from many rodent species.
slow-acting.
Plantskydd Animal Repellent – Best Natural Squirrel Repellent For Attic
Target Species: Rabbits, Elk, Moose, Hares, Voles, Squirrels, Chipmunks and Other Herbivores
The Plantskydd company has been offering products that are proven by independent research for more than 30 years. It is confirmed that the odor which Plantskydd repellents emit is very powerful in fighting the attic squirrel problem. It is also certified to be harmless for animals, people, and plants.
If you want to remove squirrels from an attic, this product will do it for you after the first usage. It releases the chemicals that are unpleasant for squirrels. The basis made of vegetable oil provides a long-lasting effect. Even when three months pass from the day you applied the Plantskydd repellent, your attic will be secured.
You may use it also to fight the deer, rabbit, chipmunks, etc. The repellent can be helpful if you want to protect your garden. It is safe for your plants and the environment.
Pros:
Cons:
wide range of action;
long-lasting effect;
safe for the environment.
mostly applied in the garden.
JT Eaton 166004 709-PN Bait Block Rodenticide Anticoagulant Bait – Best Squirrel Poison Bait
If you are looking for professional products for getting squirrel out of attic, JT Eaton knows a lot about this. This manufacturer offers repellents and baits that are available in a variety of sizes. Even the packaging of the products is organic, so with JT Eaton, you don’t need to worry about environmental protection.
The peanut butter flavoring of the rodenticide attracts the squirrels in the attic. The product is perfect to use in the indoor basements. In a few days, the active ingredient of the poison will eliminate the tiresome pets. You can store the blocks of bait for about a year and use them when needed. The rodenticide also works on smaller rodents, such as rats and mice.
Pros:
Cons:
fast-acting;
wide range of action;
perfect for indoor usage.
kills the animal.
How to Keep Squirrels Out of Attic?
If you live near the area that squirrels may inhabit, and you want to prevent their visits, I will give you some tips. Firstly, you need to find all the entries to the roof that you can seal with no damage to the inhabitants of the house. You should also trim the branches that reach the attic.
In short words, you may repeat the steps that I described above. You can remove all the food that can attract squirrels, such as nuts, seeds, and others. The ultrasonic and chemical repellents can also be applied to prevent the forming of squirrel nests. You may also use the organic homemade repellents.
Squirrels do not like strong smells like spicy odors, vinegar, garlic, lemon, etc. You can put some of these near the roof openings. But the professional remedies are more effective because they have a higher concentration of the chemicals.
FAQ
How to Catch a Squirrel in the Attic?
If you want to catch a squirrel, it is better to use the trapping squirrels in attic devices. In case you want to scare them, you may apply ultrasonic or other repellents.
How Do Squirrels Get in the Attic?
They have curved claws and can climb the walls. They also jump from the tree branches.
What Time of Day Do You Hear Squirrels in the Attic?
The squirrels are active during the day.
How to Tell If You Have Rats or Squirrels in the Attic?
Rats are more active at night, squirrels may scramble at day time. Rats do not leave the footprints because they have long claws. If you have found the footsteps prints, you can be sure it is a squirrel.
Key Takeaways
It feels safer if the squirrels don’t sleep in your house, am I right? I’m glad that I was able to share the information about how to control squirrels in the attic with you and hope it will help you. Rodents are quite dangerous pests, and it may be hard to catch them.
But with professional repellents and traps, it takes a few days to protect your house and have a calm sleep. The plus of using the repellents is that they will also protect you from other rodents, such as rats, mice, rabbits.
Have you already faced the squirrels in the attic? What measures did you take? You can write in the comments below.
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