Squirrel pest control

While typically seen as quite cute and harmless, squirrels can cause a lot of damage if they make their way from trees in your garden into the building to nest. Currently, two species can be found in the wild in the UK: the red squirrel and the grey squirrel. Knowing the differences between the two is crucial as different squirrel control methods will be required depending on the species responsible for your squirrel problem. Why? Red squirrels, native to the UK, are classified as endangered and, as such, are fully protected by law. Grey squirrels, on the other hand, are considered pests.

The grey squirrel is a non-native, invasive species that harms native fauna and flora, by damaging woodlands and contributing to the decline of the red squirrel population. Grey squirrels were originally brought over to the country in 1876 in the Cheshire area by the Victorians. It is thought that they were introduced because the Victorians, unaware of the destruction they could cause, wanted to liven up the woodland and make it more interesting to look at. Right now, grey squirrels are estimated to outnumber red squirrels by as much as 10 to 1, which means that if you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation, they are the most likely culprit.

Because grey squirrels are pests now, it is illegal to release them into the wild. Any grey squirrel caught alive must be humanely dispatched according to the law. For this reason, it’s best to leave squirrel control to pest control specialists. We use the most humane methods to remove all pest problems, including grey squirrel infestations.

Squirrel pest control
Squirrels eradication

Need Professional Help With Your Squirrel Problem? Call Us!

Squirrels become territorial when nesting and can become very agitated and even aggressive when someone disturbs ‘their territory’, especially if they already have young in their nests. This means that if they decide to nest in your loft space, removing them will not be easy. There is a common misconception that blocking the animals’ access points is enough to deter them from getting in. Unfortunately, this is not the case and can actually do the opposite of deterring them.

If you prevent adult squirrels from reaching their nests and often their young, they will attack anything that blocks their way, and if they cannot get through, they will keep looking for a different entry, e.g., by damaging fascia boards, until they are successful. We have seen this happen numerous times, and often this can result in hundreds or even thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Avoid the stress and costly repairs, and let professional pest control technicians deal with your squirrel infestation! With our expertise, as well as tried and tested traps and methods, we’ll be able to solve your pest problem quickly and effectively!

Effective Squirrel Control and Proofing Services

We use effective and humane pest control methods, including authorised traps. By trusting our team, you can rest assured that we’ll free your home, garden or business property from grey squirrels in accordance with the law and as humanely as possible. Apart from getting rid of existing problems, we can also provide long-term pest-proofing solutions by identifying and blocking potential access points to prevent other squirrels from getting inside in the future.

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Signs of a Squirrel Infestation

Droppings

These can often be found in loft spaces and attics. While similar, squirrel droppings are larger and more rounded than rat droppings.

Sighting

You may see squirrels in your loft space, notice them going through your fascia boards or spot entry points created by squirrels (typically holes about the size of a tennis ball). They often use loft insulation and similar things as nesting materials, so seeing a pile of shredded loft insulation can be a sign of an infestation as well.

Sounds

When looking for nesting materials or simply moving around your loft or attic, squirrels can make a lot of noise. Any unexplained scratching and rustling sounds may be caused by squirrels.

Smell

Droppings and urine accumulated over time may start to emit a strong and unpleasant odour.

Damage

While small and cute in appearance, squirrels are relatively strong animals with sharp teeth and sharp claws. They can even chew through soft metals and hard wood. This means that they can do a lot of damage to your loft space and roof by destroying wires, fascia boards, tiles, loft insulation materials and joints, among others.

Squirrel Facts

Food is important during the cold winter months. It makes sense, therefore, that some species of squirrels can smell food under a foot of snow. They will then dig a tunnel under the snow, following the scent to their (or another squirrel’s) buried treasure.

Squirrels’ front teeth never stop growing. This is a common characteristic of other rodents, as well. The word ‘rodent’ actually derives from the Latin ‘rodere’, which means to gnaw. 

Squirrels often bury food near big trees and other landmarks to be able to find their hiding spots easily later on. Squirrels may lose 25% of their buried food to thieves. And that’s just from members of their own species! Scatter hoarders (squirrels with multiple caches of food) have a difficult time keeping an eye on all of their hidden food. Fellow squirrels or birds often take advantage of this for a free meal.

Squirrels tend to engage in what is known as deceptive caching, which means that a squirrel will dig a hole and vigorously cover it up again without depositing nuts to throw off potential food thieves.

Squirrel Pest Control – FAQ

What types of squirrels can Merida Pest Control manage?

Merida Pest Control specializes in managing both grey and red squirrels, effectively handling any squirrel pest issues you may be experiencing on your property.

Are the squirrel pest control methods used by Merida Pest Control humane and
environmentally friendly?

Absolutely, Merida Pest Control utilizes humane and environmentally friendly methods for squirrel pest control. Our approach ensures the well-being of the animals and protects the environment while securing your property against squirrel infestations.

How quickly can I expect a response from Merida Pest Control for my squirrel
problem?

We offer a prompt response to all inquiries. Typically, we aim to assess and commence the squirrel pest control process within 24 hours of being contacted, providing immediate solutions to your squirrel-related concerns.

Will the squirrel pest control service interfere with my daily routine or pose a
threat to my pets?

No, our squirrel pest control service is crafted to minimize disruption to your daily routine. All the methods we use are safe for pets and other non-target wildlife, with specific measures taken to ensure their security and well-being.

Does Merida Pest Control provide any guarantees for the squirrel pest control
service?

Yes, we offer a service guarantee for our squirrel pest control. We are dedicated to achieving customer satisfaction and will re-attend your property if the initial treatment doesn’t fully resolve your squirrel pest issues.