Squirrel Trapping & Squirrel Control Services

squirrel trapping

If you are hearing noises in your attic, it should be safe to assume you are looking for SQUIRREL TRAPPING or you wouldn’t have landed here. Unless you are a professional, it can be difficult to determine what the animal is and how to deal with it.  You could have grey squirrels or flying squirrels in your attic, or it could be a rat, a mouse, or even a raccoon!  And all of these species have different behaviors, and timing and often require different methods of control.  We deal with all of these animals on a daily basis.  Call us no matter what is making noise or bothering you, we are always ready to help however we can!   We are ready to trap, remove or address what is getting in and we can keep it out!


  • Our Squirrel Trapping is thorough – We perform a COMPLETE inspection, getting our eyes on every accessible area of your home or building to be better able to address your issues from every possible angle.
  • Our Squirrel Trapping is humane – Our daily trap checks ensure that the animals spend as little time as possible in the traps which reduces the stress they can endure.
  • Our Squirrel Trapping is effective – Daily trap checks also allows us to see what is and isn’t working so we can quickly make the needed adjustments to the placement of the traps, the style, or the bait.
  • Our Squirrel Trapping is comprehensive – We have a vast array of tools at our disposal from many different types and styles of traps, to the inventory of homemade baits tailored to enticing squirrels, to repellants that we can use to trap the squirrels and solve your issues.
  • Our Squirrel Trapping comes with a quote to seal up your home or building, preventing reentry from the next squirrel that wanders by and wants to make a home in your attic. This work comes with a warranty and gives you the peace of mind that the work was done right.

Our squirrel trapping service area in North Georgia extends as far south as Alpharetta, Crabapple, Duluth, Johns Creek, Marietta, Milton, Roswell, and Suwanee then going as far north as Ball Ground, Big Canoe, Blue Ridge, Cumming, Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Ellijay, Gainesville, and Jasper.  If you are outside of these areas for our pest control and nuisance wildlife service area get in touch with us!  We want to help however we can! 

Give us a call! (678) 935-5900

WE CAN RESOLVE YOUR SQUIRREL PROBLEM IN TWO STEPS:

Squirrel trapping

One Week Duration – 5 Visits

Daily Trap Checks

We Relocate All Squirrels Trapped

Squirrel proofing

Guaranteed

Affordable Prices

Family-Owned & Operated


OUR SQUIRREL TRAPPING SERVICES

We charge a flat rate squirrel trapping fee per week.  There is NO setup fee, NO per animal fee, and NO need for an estimate or quote – simply CALL US! The squirrel trapping fee is all-inclusive: Five (5) trips out every single day to set the trap, check the trap and to relocate the squirrels trapped.  It is the law in the State of Georgia that the traps are checked every single day – No exceptions.  While we are trapping everyday we figure out what needs to be sealed on your home to prevent squirrels from coming back in. We will provide you with a “no obligation quote” for the exclusion work.

SQUIRREL EXCLUSION SERVICES

Since no two homes are alike, no two exclusion proposals are the same price.  Exclusion is the act of using animal-proof materials, devices, and methods to keep the animals OUT.  Once the animals are taken out, they leave behind odors, feces, and scents which may attract other animals.  If squirrel trapping alone (without exclusion) is done it just clears the way for the next one to find their way in unless you block off its ability to “Get back IN”.  Some of the most common entry areas for animals are: ◊ Gable Vents  ◊ Soffit Junctions ◊ Dryer/Bathroom Vents ◊ Construction Gap (Gutter Line) ◊ Holes.

We only use the highest quality animal-proof materials and devices, therefore, we are proudly able to guarantee that no animal will get past the areas where we have performed the exclusion services.   With all of this said, there is no way to give a price for exclusion work over the phone.  While we are there it is necessary for us to determine how the animals are gaining access or entry into the building or property.  This insight makes us able to provide a proposal for the cost of the exclusion work.  IF the proposal is acceptable we will perform the exclusion work while the trapping is being performed which increases the overall success of the entire process. We are experts in getting the Squirrels that are in your attic – OUT?   We offer humane Squirrel trapping, Squirrel removal & Squirrel exclusion as well as Chipmunk Trapping, Chipmunk Removal & Chipmunk Control.

Hire us to remedy the issues with Nuisance Squirrels…  We Can Help!

squirrel trapping

SQUIRRELY FUN FOR THE KIDS


Frequently Asked Questions

((These are both frequently asked questions and common search engine queries))


Q: How to get rid of squirrels in my attic?
A: This process is pretty simple for us, we have been providing squirrel trapping services for 14 years. Albeit trapping is the just the first step. After you trap and get the psychopaths that think they are entitled to your home out and relocated far enough away to where they will not come back THEN you have to have your home sealed to prevent future one’s from coming in again. We provide critter-proofing of homes to keep squirrels, rats, mice, bats, etc out.

Q: Squirrel removal near me?
A:  If you typed this into google you do not always get the closest businesses (wildlife removal companies) to your current location. If a company uses “NEAR ME” on their website that is a keyword that could cause them to populate on your list although they are not the closest or near you. You do not have to type near me, Google is sophisticated enough to have an algorithm that detects your location if you have location services on when searching for squirrel trappers. If you do not then you will have to type your city name and not “near me”.

Q: How to keep away squirrels or “getting rid of squirrels”?
A:  Well that is a tough answer to just type in a few sentences. I can tell you what is the #1 attractor of squirrels…. bird feeders. Frankly, we live in Georgia and squirrels should be our State Mascot. To get squirrels out of your attic we would trap for one week. We use live cage traps and relocate them. Then we would provide an estimate to seal your home to prevent them from coming in again. It is methodical and pretty straight-forward. Not cheap, but highly effective when done properly.

Q: Who does Squirrel Pest Control?
A:  I think people assume squirrels are killed by pesticides or other means. When in all actuality squirrel control is done by cage trapping. It is illegal for a nuisance wildlife control operator to kill squirrels. We are required under our Nuisance Wildlife Licenses to “to cage trap and release unharmed in their natural habitat”. Trust me when I saw not every trapper obeys these laws but as long as we are required under our license we will continue to observe and respect the law. Plus, if you know what you are doing you do not need to kill them in order to control the situation.

Q: Squirrels in attic removal?
A:  Same as above. To get squirrels out of your attic we would trap for one week. We use live cage traps and relocate them. Then we would provide an estimate to seal your home to prevent them from coming in again. It is methodical and pretty straight-forward. Not cheap, but highly effective when done properly.

Q: Squirrel trap home depot -or- Baiting a squirrel trap –
A:  Ok, here is the truth… Yes, you can buy traps from home depot and bait them. The problem is that does not prevent future one’s from coming in. Plus, you run a risk of educating squirrels to avoid traps if you trap and fail. There is a lot more to it then just placing a cage trap and waiting.

Q: Do squirrels remember traps?

A: Squirrels are intelligent and adaptable animals that can learn to avoid traps, especially if they have had previous negative experiences with them. If a squirrel is caught in a trap, it may become wary of that trap in the future, and avoid it or approach it more cautiously.

Q: Can squirrels survive if relocated?

A: Squirrels are one of the most adaptive critters that we relocate. We, as licensed Wildlife Control Operators, are required to release squirrels unharmed in their natural habitat. They can survive if they are relocated after being trapped, but their chances of survival depend on a number of factors.

The success of the relocation will depend on a number of factors, including the age and health of the squirrel, the availability of food and shelter in the new location, and the distance and method of transport to the new location.

With all of that said, relocated squirrels may struggle to find food and shelter in a new environment, and may face competition from established animals in the area. They may also be more vulnerable to predators or other risks in an unfamiliar environment.

Q: What smells get rid of squirrels?

A: There are various smells that are claimed to repel squirrels, including mothballs, predator urine, hot pepper spray, and essential oils such as peppermint, cinnamon, or eucalyptus. However, there is little scientific evidence to support the efficacy of these smells in deterring squirrels.

One major issue with using smells as a squirrel repellent is that squirrels, like most animals, have varying sensitivities to different scents. What may be unpleasant to one squirrel may not bother another at all. Additionally, squirrels can become habituated to smells over time, meaning that the repellent effect will eventually wear off.

Another problem is that smells alone are unlikely to be effective in deterring squirrels if other attractants, such as food sources or nesting sites, are still present in the area. Squirrels are highly adaptable and will often tolerate unpleasant smells if they have a strong motivation to access a food source or shelter.

Furthermore, some of the substances that are claimed to repel squirrels, such as mothballs and predator urine, can be harmful to the environment and may pose a risk to other wildlife, domestic animals and humans. It is important to address the use of moth balls; Naphthalene is a chemical compound that is commonly used as the active ingredient in mothballs. While it may be effective at repelling moths and other insects, naphthalene can also pose significant health risks to humans.

When naphthalene is exposed to air, it can release toxic fumes that can cause a range of health problems. Short-term exposure to high levels of naphthalene fumes can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Long-term exposure to lower levels of naphthalene can cause more serious health problems, including damage to the liver and kidneys, anemia, and a risk of cancer.

In conclusion, while there are many claims about the effectiveness of certain smells in deterring squirrels, the evidence supporting these claims is weak at best. Using smells as a primary squirrel repellent is unlikely to be effective and may even cause unintended harm to the environment. Instead, it is generally more effective to address the underlying causes of squirrel behavior, such as removing food sources or blocking access to nesting sites.

Q: What is the best squirrel deterrent?

A: The best deterrent for squirrels will depend on the specific situation and the behavior of the squirrels in question. However, there are a few general methods that are often effective for homeowners to implement to deter squirrels:

  1. Physical barriers: One of the most effective ways to deter squirrels is to prevent them from accessing the area in the first place. This can be achieved by using physical barriers such as netting, wire mesh, or fencing. For example, if squirrels are getting into a garden or bird feeder, a sturdy fence or netting can be used to keep them out. If you are using bird feeders, that is a part of the nuisance wildlife cycle and you are a part of the problem. It is inevitable that you are feeding, rats, mice, squirrels, and when those critters come to eat the food that is dropped by the birds it brings in the predators of those critters such as fox & coyotes.
  2. Repellents: While some types of repellents, such as smells, may be ineffective at deterring squirrels (see previous answer), others may be more effective. For example, spicy or bitter tastes may deter squirrels from chewing on objects or plants. There are also commercially available repellents that use a combination of scents, tastes, and visual cues to deter squirrels.
  3. Habitat modification: Squirrels are attracted to areas that provide food, water, and shelter, so modifying the habitat to remove these attractants can be effective at deterring them. For example, removing bird feeders or covering compost bins can help reduce the availability of food for squirrels. Trimming back tree branches or sealing up gaps in buildings can also help reduce the availability of shelter.
  4. Trapping: In some cases, trapping and relocating squirrels may be necessary to prevent damage or nuisance. However, trapping should be done humanely and in accordance with local laws and regulations. If you are not up for the challenge, call a professional Nuisance Wildlife Control Company like us – Southern Wildlife Management, LLC. We can help!

It is important to note that all of these methods may have limitations and may not be effective in all situations. The best approach will depend on the specific circumstances and the behavior of the squirrels in question. It may be helpful to consult with a wildlife professional or pest control expert for advice on the most effective way to deter squirrels in a specific situation.

Q: Do dryer sheets repel squirrels?

A: If dryer sheets were effective at repelling squirrels then we, as a professional nuisance wildlife control company, would implement it as a part of our process. While there may be many claims about the effectiveness of dryer sheets as a squirrel repellent, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim. It is generally more effective to use methods such as physical barriers, repellents, habitat modification, or trapping, which have been proven to be effective and safe for both humans and wildlife.

Q: Does aluminum foil keep squirrels away?

A: There is a common myth that aluminum foil can be used to repel squirrels. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that aluminum foil is an effective squirrel repellent.

While it is possible that the shiny surface of aluminum foil may temporarily startle or confuse a squirrel, it is unlikely to provide a long-term solution for deterring squirrels. Squirrels are highly adaptable and can quickly become accustomed to new objects or stimuli in their environment.

Furthermore, squirrels are motivated by food, shelter, and safety, not by shiny objects. Simply wrapping a tree or other object in aluminum foil is unlikely to be an effective deterrent if other attractants, such as food sources or nesting sites, are still present in the area.

In conclusion, while aluminum foil may be useful for certain household tasks, it is unlikely to be an effective squirrel repellent. Instead, it is generally more effective to address the underlying causes of squirrel behavior, such as removing food sources or blocking access to nesting sites. If you are experiencing a problem with squirrels, it may be helpful to consult with a wildlife professional or pest control expert for advice on the most effective methods of deterrence.

Q: Does Irish Spring soap keep squirrels away?

A: One possible explanation for why Irish Spring soap might be perceived as a squirrel repellent is that the strong smell of the soap may mask other attractive scents in the area, such as food or nesting materials. However, there is no evidence to suggest that squirrels are inherently repelled by the scent of Irish Spring soap.

Furthermore, some people have reported that Irish Spring soap is ineffective at deterring squirrels, and in some cases, squirrels have even been known to chew on the soap or use it as nesting material.

In general, it is important to be cautious when relying on anecdotal evidence or untested remedies for squirrel control. Instead, it is often more effective to address the underlying causes of squirrel behavior, such as removing food sources or blocking access to nesting sites.

In conclusion, while Irish Spring soap may be perceived as a squirrel repellent by some people, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim. It is important to approach squirrel control with a critical and evidence-based mindset, and to rely on proven methods for deterring these animals.

Q: Do coffee grounds keep squirrels away?

A: There is a popular myth that coffee grounds can be used to repel squirrels from gardens or other areas. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, and it is unlikely that coffee grounds will have any significant impact on squirrel behavior.

The thinking behind this myth may be related to the fact that squirrels have a highly developed sense of smell, and coffee grounds have a strong and distinctive aroma. Some people may believe that the scent of coffee will be unpleasant or confusing to squirrels, and may cause them to avoid the area.

However, there are a few reasons why this thinking is flawed. First, the scent of coffee is not inherently unpleasant to squirrels. While they may be able to detect the scent, it is unlikely to have any significant impact on their behavior, especially if there are other attractive food sources or nesting sites in the area.

Second, coffee grounds are not an effective repellent for squirrels because they do not pose a physical barrier or prevent access to food sources. Squirrels are highly adaptable and can easily navigate around or through piles of coffee grounds to reach food or nesting sites.

In conclusion, while the idea that coffee grounds can repel squirrels may sound plausible, there is no evidence to support this claim.

Q: Does cinnamon keep squirrels away?

A: The origins of the belief in cinnamon as a squirrel repellent are unclear, but it may be related to the fact that cinnamon has a strong scent and taste. It is possible that someone noticed that squirrels were less likely to eat food that had been sprinkled with cinnamon, and the idea that cinnamon can repel squirrels spread from there.

However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that cinnamon is an effective squirrel repellent. In fact, squirrels are known to have a diverse diet and can consume a wide variety of foods, including foods that have been seasoned with cinnamon.

Furthermore, while cinnamon is generally considered safe for human consumption, it can actually be harmful to squirrels if ingested in large amounts. Cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which can cause liver damage in animals if consumed in high doses.

In conclusion, while the idea that cinnamon can repel squirrels may be well-intentioned, there is no evidence to support this claim. In fact, using cinnamon as a squirrel repellent could actually be harmful to the squirrels. If you are experiencing problems with squirrels, it is best to use proven methods such as physical barriers, repellents, or habitat modification, rather than relying on unproven remedies.

Q: Does hot pepper spray deter squirrels?

A: The thinking behind the use of hot pepper spray or cayenne pepper to repel squirrels is based on the belief that the strong and unpleasant taste or odor will discourage squirrels from eating plants or other items. The theory is that squirrels will associate the unpleasant sensation with the object they are eating and avoid it in the future.

While this may seem plausible, there is little scientific evidence to support this theory. In fact, studies have shown that some animals, such as birds, are actually attracted to spicy foods and are not deterred by hot pepper spray or cayenne pepper.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of hot pepper spray or cayenne pepper as a squirrel repellent is limited. Squirrels are highly adaptable and will often tolerate unpleasant tastes or odors if they are motivated enough to access a food source or shelter. Additionally, hot pepper spray or cayenne pepper may need to be reapplied frequently to maintain their effectiveness.

Q: How do you stop squirrels from chewing on wires?

A: Squirrels can cause extensive damage to wires and cables by chewing on them, which can result in costly repairs and potential safety hazards. If you are experiencing this problem, there are a few effective methods that a wildlife control company specializing in squirrel damage prevention can use to help you.

One of the most effective ways to prevent squirrels from chewing on wires is to use physical barriers such as wire mesh or conduit, which is a service provided by Southern Wildlife Management. This is called Wildlife Exclusion services. Habitat modification is another option, which involves trimming back tree branches or sealing up gaps in buildings to reduce the availability of shelter and deter squirrels from the area.

In some cases, trapping and relocation may be necessary to prevent damage or nuisance, and this is a service offered by our company, Southern Wildlife Management, which specializes in squirrel removal and relocation. However, it’s important to note that trapping should be done humanely and in accordance with local laws and regulations. Finally, if you have already experienced squirrel damage, a wildlife control company that provides wildlife damage repair services can help you repair the damage and prevent future incidents.

Q: Why do squirrels eat electrical wires?

A: Rodents such as squirrels, mice, and rats have a natural instinct to chew on things, including wires. There are several reasons why rodents may chew on wires:

  1. Teeth maintenance: Rodents’ teeth never stop growing, so they need to constantly wear them down to prevent overgrowth. Chewing on wires is one way for them to do this.
  2. Food source: Rodents may chew on wires to access the insulation material, which they can use as nesting material or even as a food source.
  3. Habitat modification: Rodents may also chew on wires as a way to modify their habitat. For example, they may chew on wires to create an opening that allows them to access a building or to create a pathway through walls or ceilings.
  4. Attraction to electricity: Some rodents, such as rats, are attracted to electricity and may chew on wires out of curiosity.
  5. Unintended Benefit: Glucose is sometimes used as an ingredient in the plastic covering on wires because it can improve the flexibility and durability of the plastic material. It can also help to make the plastic more resistant to breaking or cracking, which can improve the overall lifespan of the wires. However, the use of glucose in plastic materials can have unintended consequences, such as attracting rodents who may chew on the wires and cause damage or create a fire hazard. As a result, some manufacturers have begun to explore alternative materials and methods for creating plastic coatings on wires that do not contain glucose or other substances that can be attractive to rodents.

Regardless of the reason, rodents chewing on wires can cause significant damage and create a serious fire hazard. It’s important to take action to prevent rodents from accessing wires and to address any damage as soon as possible to prevent further problems. Southern Wildlife Management, a wildlife control company that specializes in rodent control, can help you identify and address any rodent infestations and prevent future damage.

Q: Are squirrels in the attic a fire hazard?

A: Yes, for above reasons mentioned.

Q: How many house fires are caused by squirrels?

A: It is difficult to determine an exact number of house fires caused by squirrels in the attic in the United States as data on this specific issue is not consistently tracked or reported. However, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), rodents in general, including squirrels, are a contributing factor to an estimated 25% of house fires in the United States. The most common way that rodents can cause fires is by chewing on electrical wiring, which can create a short circuit and spark a fire. If you suspect that you have squirrels or other rodents in your attic, it is important to take action to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage or hazards.

Q: Will owl decoys scare squirrels?

A: Owl decoys are often used as a natural and non-toxic method to deter squirrels from gardens, crops, and other areas. The idea behind using owl decoys is that squirrels will see the decoy and believe that there is a predator in the area, causing them to avoid the area altogether. However, the effectiveness of owl decoys as a squirrel deterrent is mixed.

While some people report success in using owl decoys to scare squirrels away, others have found that squirrels quickly become accustomed to the decoy and learn that it is not a real threat. In some cases, squirrels may even become curious and investigate the decoy, rendering it ineffective as a deterrent.

Q: Do squirrels build nests in chimneys?

A: Yes, squirrels can and do build nests in chimneys. In fact, chimneys can be an appealing location for squirrels to build their nests because they provide a protected and enclosed space that is high off the ground. Squirrels may use twigs, leaves, and other materials to construct their nests inside chimneys, and they may also use the space to store food or to give birth and raise their young.

While a squirrel nest in a chimney may not necessarily be harmful, it can cause some problems. For example, if the nest becomes too large or if the squirrels become trapped in the chimney, it can create a blockage that prevents smoke and gases from properly venting out of the home. This can be a serious safety hazard that can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or a chimney fire.

If you suspect that squirrels have built a nest in your chimney, it’s important to take action to address the issue promptly. This may involve hiring a professional wildlife removal company, such as Southern Wildlife Management, to safely and humanely remove the squirrels and their nest from the chimney, as well as taking steps to prevent squirrels from accessing the chimney in the future, such as installing a chimney cap or screening.

Q: Can squirrels climb out of a chimney?

A: If a squirrel slides down the chimney, it may become trapped and unable to get out on its own. In some cases, the squirrel may be able to climb back up the chimney or find another way out, but this is not always possible.

If you suspect that a squirrel has become trapped in your chimney, it’s important to take action promptly to avoid any harm to the squirrel or damage to your home. Attempting to remove the squirrel on your own can be dangerous and stressful for both you and the animal, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Southern Wildlife Management is a professional wildlife removal company that can safely and humanely remove squirrels and other wildlife from your chimney. Our trained technicians use specialized equipment and techniques to safely extract the animal without causing harm or damage to your property.

It’s important to address a trapped squirrel in your chimney as soon as possible to prevent any damage to your chimney or harm to the animal. In addition to wildlife removal, Southern Wildlife Management can also help you take steps to prevent future wildlife intrusions in your chimney, such as installing a chimney cap or screening. Contact us today for safe and effective wildlife removal services.

Q: What to do if you hear scratching in your walls?

A: If you hear scratching or other strange noises in your wall, it may be an indication that you have a wildlife problem. Common culprits include rodents, squirrels, raccoons, and bats, which may have found their way into your home through a small opening or gap.

If left unchecked, these animals can cause significant damage to your property and potentially pose health risks to you and your family. That’s why it’s important to contact a professional wildlife removal company, such as Southern Wildlife Management, to assess the situation and safely remove any animals that may be present.

We have the knowledge, experience, and tools needed to safely and effectively remove wildlife from your home, as well as prevent future infestations. We can also repair any damage caused by the animals and offer advice on how to prevent wildlife from entering your home in the future.

Q: Can a squirrel get stuck in a wall?

A: Yes, it is possible for a squirrel to get stuck in a wall. Squirrels are known for their agility and climbing ability, which allows them to easily navigate trees, buildings, and other structures. However, they can also accidentally fall into small openings or gaps in walls or other structures, which can cause them to become trapped.

If you suspect that a squirrel has become trapped in your wall, it is important to contact a professional wildlife removal company, such as Southern Wildlife Management, right away. Attempting to remove the squirrel on your own can be dangerous and may cause further harm to the animal.

At Southern Wildlife Management, our team of trained professionals has the experience and expertise needed to safely and humanely remove squirrels from walls and other structures. We use specialized equipment and techniques to locate and extract the animal without causing harm, and we take steps to ensure that any damage to your property is minimized.

Q: How long can squirrels live in walls?

A: If a squirrel is stuck inside a wall and cannot get out, its survival time may depend on various factors such as access to food, water, and air. Generally, squirrels can survive for several days to a week without water, but they need food more frequently. In a confined space like a wall, their food supply may be limited, and they can quickly become dehydrated, leading to health issues or even death. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek professional wildlife removal services, like Southern Wildlife Management, to safely and humanely remove the squirrel and prevent future infestations.

Q: How big a hole can a squirrel get through?

A: Squirrels can fit through holes as small as 1.5 inches in diameter, making it essential to seal all possible entry points in homes and buildings to prevent infestations. Proper wildlife exclusion methods, can effectively keep squirrels and other wildlife out of structures. It is crucial to consult with a professional wildlife management service like Southern Wildlife Management to ensure humane and effective exclusion practices.

Q: Do squirrels leave the attic during the day?

A: Yes, we can assure you that squirrels may leave the attic during the day in search of food and water. However, they are primarily active during the early morning and late afternoon. It is essential to seek professional wildlife removal services if you suspect a squirrels have gained entry into your attic to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your property. Contact us for efficient and humane squirrel removal services.

Q: Are squirrels active at night?

A: Yes, squirrels are generally considered diurnal animals, meaning they are active during the day. However, we often get complaints of squirrels being active during the night, particularly in urban areas with high levels of artificial light or in the situation where there is an active nest with juvenile squirrels in the attic. At Southern Wildlife Management, we provide comprehensive wildlife management services to help address any issues related to squirrel activity on your property.

Q: Does light keep squirrels away?

A: Lights in the attic can serve as an temporary squirrel deterrent. Installing bright lights in the attic can help deter squirrels, as they prefer dark and quiet spaces. Additionally, the presence of light may also disrupt the squirrels’ sleeping patterns and make them uncomfortable, causing them to leave the area – for a limited timeframe. However, it’s important to note that simply installing lights will not be enough to completely eliminate a squirrel infestation, and it’s recommended to consult with a wildlife removal specialist for a comprehensive solution. Squirrels are reactive to change or new things introduced into their environment, however, they quickly overcome the fear of something new and become habituated to the light, sound and odor. We’ve had squirrel nests found within 1 foot of a ultrasonic squirrel repeller.

Q: What damage can squirrels do to your home?

A: Squirrels can cause significant damage when they take up residence in attics. Some common types of damage they can cause include:

  1. Gnawing: Squirrels have strong teeth and jaws, and they may gnaw on wood, insulation, wiring, and other materials in the attic. This can lead to structural damage and can create a fire hazard if they chew on electrical wiring.
  2. Nesting: Squirrels build nests out of materials like insulation, leaves, and twigs. They may create several nests throughout the attic, which can take up a lot of space and can damage the structure of the attic.
  3. Contamination: Squirrels can contaminate the attic with urine and feces, which can create an unpleasant odor and may pose a health risk.
  4. Noise: Squirrels are active during the day and can create a lot of noise in the attic, which can be disruptive to people living in the home.

The damage is typically caused by the squirrels’ natural behavior and instincts. Squirrels are rodents, and like other rodents, they need to chew on things to keep their teeth from growing too long. They also need to build nests to provide shelter and protection for themselves and their offspring. In addition, squirrels are naturally curious and may explore different areas of the attic, which can lead to damage. Overall, the damage caused by squirrels in an attic can be significant and can pose a risk to both the home and its inhabitants.

Q: What causes squirrels to suddenly disappear?

A: There could be several reasons why squirrels in a certain area suddenly disappear. Here are some possibilities:

  1. Natural predators: Squirrels have several natural predators such as hawks, owls, eagles, foxes, snakes, and even domestic cats and dogs. If a predator population increases in the area, it could cause the squirrel population to decrease.
  2. Disease: Squirrels can be susceptible to various diseases, and if there is an outbreak of a disease that affects squirrels in the area, it could lead to a sudden decline in their population.
  3. Habitat destruction: Squirrels rely on trees and other vegetation for shelter and food. If there is a significant loss of habitat due to deforestation or urbanization, the squirrel population could be affected.
  4. Human intervention: In some cases, humans may intentionally or unintentionally disrupt the squirrel population. For example, if someone sets traps or uses poison to control rodents in the area, it could inadvertently affect the squirrel population as well.
  5. Migration: Squirrels are known to migrate in search of food and better habitat. If the local resources become scarce, they may move to another area in search of better opportunities.

It’s important to note that these are just a few possibilities, and there could be other factors at play as well.

Q: Do squirrels live under houses?

A: Yes, grey squirrels, which are one of the most common squirrel species in North America, are known to live under houses. Although not as common as taking up residence in an attic. They are agile climbers and can easily gain access to attics and on a rare occasion they enter crawl spaces beneath homes through small gaps or holes in the foundation. Once inside, they may build nests or store food, which can cause damage and create a fire hazard if they gnaw on electrical wires. It is important to take preventative measures, such as sealing any openings or gaps.

Any questions give us a call!