Spring in Southern Ontario brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and…squirrel baby (kit) season! These adorable, bushy-tailed creatures can quickly become a nuisance when they decide your attic or walls are the perfect place to raise their young. Protecting your home from squirrels during (kit) baby season requires proactive measures and a good understanding of squirrel behavior. We provide tactical ways to protect your home from squirrels below.
A Time of Vulnerability Squirrels typically have two breeding seasons, one in late winter/early spring (February-April) and another in late summer/early fall (August-September). During these periods, mother squirrels, called “dams,” seek safe and cozy locations to build their nests and raise their kits. Unfortunately, our homes can offer just the right conditions. “Squirrel kit season is a critical time to inspect your attic and vents. Seal entry points early to avoid a furry family moving in.” This statement highlights the importance of preventative measures. Early detection and proactive sealing are key to avoiding a squirrel infestation.
Our attics, soffits, vents, and wall voids provide ideal nesting sites for squirrels. They offer protection from the elements, predators, and are often warm and insulated. The abundance of nesting materials readily available in our yards (leaves, twigs, insulation) makes our homes even more attractive. The Importance of Early Inspection Inspecting your home before squirrels move in is crucial. Once a mother squirrel has established a nest and given birth, removing them becomes much more complicated and requires specialized, humane handling.
Attic: Carefully inspect your attic for any signs of squirrel activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or nests. Pay close attention to areas near vents, chimneys, and where the roof meets the walls.
Vents: Check all exterior vents (attic, dryer, bathroom) to ensure they have secure screens. Squirrels can easily squeeze through even small openings.
Soffits and Fascia: Inspect the soffits (under the eaves) and fascia boards for any damage or gaps. These are common entry points for squirrels.
Roof: Look for any missing, damaged, or lifted shingles. These can create easy access to your attic. Trees: Trim any tree branches that are close to your roof or siding. Squirrels can use these as bridges to access your home.
If you find any potential entry points, seal them immediately. Use sturdy materials that squirrels can’t chew through, such as:
Galvanized Steel Mesh: This is a highly effective barrier that squirrels can’t gnaw. Steel Wool: Stuff steel wool into small cracks and crevices.
Caulk: Use a high-quality caulk to seal gaps and cracks.
If you discover a squirrel nest with babies, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Contact a professional wildlife removal company immediately. They are trained to handle these situations humanely and safely, ensuring the well-being of both the mother squirrel and her kits. Why
Professional Help is Essential Humane Removal: Professionals understand the importance of keeping families together. They will make every effort to remove the mother squirrel and her kits together and relocate them to a suitable habitat.
Safe Handling: Squirrels can be aggressive, especially when protecting their young. Professionals have the training and equipment to handle them safely.
Preventing Future Infestations: After removing the squirrels, professionals can advise on steps to prevent future infestations, such as sealing entry points and removing attractants.
Remove Food Sources: Keep your yard clean and free of debris. Store birdseed and pet food in secure containers.
Secure Garbage Cans: Use tightly sealed garbage cans to prevent squirrels from accessing food scraps.
Yard Maintenance: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed and maintain your yard to eliminate potential nesting sites.
Protecting Your Home From Squirrels In Ontario: A Year-Round Effort Protecting your home from squirrels is an ongoing process. Regular inspections, proactive sealing, and professional help when needed are all essential components of a comprehensive squirrel management plan. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the beauty of squirrels in your neighborhood without the headache of them nesting in your home.
Learn more about our humane wildlife removal services to help protect your home from squirrels:https://pestprotectionplus.com/wildlife-removal/squirrel-removal-services/
Here is a helpful video:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FmlgdXIzNrA
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