Squirrels are quite unique in the pest control world in that most people are pretty fond of the fluffy rodents but they can still do a tremendous amount of harm.
Their ‘cute’ reputation is actually a bit of an issue sometimes as people will spot them close to their own homes and not realise the harm that they could be doing. See a rat in your garden and you’ll be on the phone to a pest control company in an instant. Would you do the same if you saw a squirrel?
Grey squirrels are some of the most destructive pests you can possibly have in your home. They not only spread diseases as prolifically as any other rodent but will also gnaw through your possessions and the very fabric of your home with prolific efficiency.
The problem with squirrels
Their public image may not be too bad, but conservationists and pest control experts are well aware of the threat they pose.
Just some of the dangers of having squirrels invade your loft space include the spreading of bacteria filled droppings and urine, the gnawing of wood (including structural beams), and the chewing of electrical wiring.
This final threat is by far the most concerning as rodents chewing through wiring is responsible for a large number of house fires in the UK each year so it really is vital you call a professional if you suspect you have squirrels in your home.
Squirrels may seem pretty timid in your local park, but they certainly aren’t the politest of house guests, and can make a tremendous amount of noise scratching, scrabbling, and chewing their way through your attic and walls. This may not pose a direct threat to your physical wellbeing but can put big toll on your mental health and make sleep and relaxation extremely hard to come by.
How to tell if you have squirrels
There are a number of signs, some obvious and some less obvious, that you should look out for that suggest you may be dealing with an infestation of grey squirrels.
These include physical sightings of squirrels, droppings found in the attic or on the floor near your property, damage or gnaw marks on wood or insulation inside your loft, and scratching sounds coming from above during the nighttime when these rodents are most active.
Some more subtle signs to be aware of include nuts and seeds rapidly vanishing from bird feeders and tree bark being stripped away.
How to get rid of squirrels
Squirrels are one of the pest species that are notoriously difficult to get rid of and the only way to ensure relief is to get in touch with a professional pest control firm such as Harvey Environmental immediately. If action isn’t taken quickly the risk of structural damage being done rises and the cost of repair goes up rapidly. The fire risk that rodents pose also means there really is no time to waster.