Squirrels may look harmless, but when they invade your yard, attic, or crawlspace, they can quickly become a serious nuisance. From chewing roof vents and wiring to raiding bird feeders and gardens, squirrels can cause costly property damage if left unchecked.
If you’re searching for how to get rid of squirrels, this guide explains what attracts them, how to prevent infestations, and why professional wildlife removal is often the safest long-term solution.
Why Are Squirrels Attracted to Your Property?
Squirrels are drawn to homes for two main reasons:
1. Food Sources
- Birdseed
- Fallen fruit and nuts
- Vegetable gardens
- Garbage bins
- Pet food
2. Shelter & Nesting Areas
- Attics
- Roof eaves
- Soffits
- Crawlspaces
- Wall voids
They can enter through small roofline openings or chew through weak materials to create access points.
How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Your Yard
If squirrels are damaging your landscaping or garden, here are effective prevention steps:
Remove Food Sources
- Regularly rake fallen nuts and fruit.
- Use secure, wildlife-proof garbage bins.
- Avoid intentionally feeding squirrels.
- Switch to squirrel-resistant bird feeders.
Use Motion Deterrents
Motion-activated sprinklers can discourage squirrels from frequenting your yard.
Apply Repellents
Capsaicin-based repellents (pepper-based products) can deter squirrels from digging or feeding. Reapply after rainfall.
Avoid applying repellents directly to edible produce.
Plant Natural Deterrents
Squirrels dislike certain plants, including:
- Daffodils
- Allium
- Snowdrops
- Hyacinths
Incorporating these into your landscaping can help reduce activity.
How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Your Attic or Crawlspace
An attic squirrel infestation requires immediate attention. Squirrels can:
- Chew electrical wiring (fire hazard)
- Damage insulation
- Create nesting debris
- Introduce parasites
Common DIY Methods (And Why They’re Risky)
Homeowners sometimes attempt:
- Live trapping
- Baiting
- Sealing all but one exit
- Installing one-way doors
While these methods may seem effective, they can be dangerous and often fail long-term. Improper sealing may trap squirrels inside walls, and incomplete exclusion allows them to return.
Squirrels are territorial and persistent. If they’ve identified your attic as a safe space, they will often attempt re-entry.
Why Professional Squirrel Removal Is the Best Solution
When dealing with wildlife inside your home, professional removal is the safest and most effective option.
At Greenshield Pest Control, our wildlife specialists:
✔ Conduct a full property inspection
✔ Identify all entry points
✔ Safely and humanely remove squirrels
✔ Seal vulnerabilities with exclusion techniques
✔ Provide long-term prevention strategies
We understand squirrel behavior patterns and nesting habits, allowing us to eliminate infestations without causing further property damage.
Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations
Long-term protection involves:
- Sealing roof vents and soffits
- Installing chimney caps
- Reinforcing vulnerable areas
- Trimming tree branches away from the roofline
- Maintaining clean outdoor spaces
Professional exclusion services are critical for lasting protection.
Signs You May Have a Squirrel Problem
Watch for:
- Scratching or scurrying sounds in the attic
- Chewed roof vents or soffits
- Nesting materials near entry points
- Damaged insulation
- Increased squirrel activity around your roof
Early intervention can prevent expensive structural repairs.
Protect Your Home with Greenshield Pest Control
Squirrels may seem harmless, but they can cause serious damage to your home’s structure and electrical systems. If you’re dealing with an infestation, don’t wait.
Contact Greenshield Pest Control today for a professional wildlife inspection and humane squirrel removal service.
