Flying Squirrel Removal & Damage Prevention
When it comes to dealing with flying squirrels, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Flying squirrel removal and damage prevention are crucial in safeguarding homes and properties. These nimble creatures can wreak havoc by gnawing on wires, damaging insulation, and carrying potential health risks. Seeking the assistance of a wildlife control operator ensures safe and effective removal, as well as the implementation of preventive measures to deter future infestations. Simple steps, such as trimming trees and sealing entry points, can also help in keeping flying squirrels at bay. By taking proactive measures, homeowners can safeguard their space from potential damage and health hazards associated with flying squirrel activity.
Key Takeaways
- Use non-lethal trapping methods like repeater traps or one-way exclusion doors for flying squirrel removal
- Clean the attic by decontaminating urine and feces left by the squirrels to prevent damage and health hazards
- Thoroughly seal all entry points with steel to prevent future infestations
- Regularly inspect the property for signs of squirrel activity and implement damage prevention strategies to minimize potential damage.
Signs of Flying Squirrel Infestation
Flying squirrels leave behind distinctive signs of infestation, including chew marks on roof edges, shingles, eaves, and soffits. Homeowners may also notice scratch marks on walls, trees, and siding, indicating potential flying squirrel activity. Additionally, damage to garden crops or flowers may signal the presence of these rodents. One of the most evident signs is the presence of droppings and urine, which can be found in areas where flying squirrels frequent. Auditory indicators such as chirping and chattering noises may also be noticeable. It is crucial to inspect the attic, as this is a common area for flying squirrel infestation. Identifying entry points is essential in wildlife control. Once these points of entry are determined, it is crucial to use exclusion devices to prevent flying squirrels from re-entering. Squirrel feces found in the attic may indicate an infestation, and locating the entry hole is vital for removal and damage prevention. By recognizing these signs and taking appropriate action, homeowners can effectively address flying squirrel infestations and protect their property.
Effective Flying Squirrel Removal Methods
After identifying the signs of flying squirrel infestation, homeowners can effectively remove these rodents using non-lethal trapping methods and exclusion techniques. Trapping flying squirrels can be done using repeater traps or one-way exclusion doors, which catch the squirrels without resorting to lethal snap traps. Once the squirrels are removed, it's crucial to clean the attic by decontaminating any urine and feces left by the squirrels. All entry points should then be sealed with steel to prevent future infestations. Homeowners can also observe the squirrels' runways and entryways in the ceiling, seal all cracks and holes except for one entry point, and then place bait inside the trap to catch the squirrels. Night-time observations can help discover the squirrels' routes and the most popular entry and exit ways. Using a one-way exclusion door can effectively remove a colony of flying squirrels, especially when combined with sealing the edges of the trap at the exit area with pliable steel screen and blocking all possible entry points during the exclusion process. These methods are essential for ridding homes of flying squirrels and preventing future infestations.
Exclusion Techniques for Preventing Reinfestation
To prevent reinfestation of flying squirrels, homeowners should thoroughly seal all entry points and install exclusion devices such as one-way exclusion doors. Sealing all holes and cracks that are big enough for squirrels to enter is crucial. It's also important to take the time to prune tree branches to prevent easy access to the roof. Additionally, placing PVC pipes over outdoor electrical wires can help deter squirrels from gaining access to the home. Another helpful step is to add a squirrel barrier to bird feeders to discourage squirrels from frequenting the area. If there are bird feeders filled with seeds, removing them can also help prevent the flying squirrel problem from reoccurring.
In cases where the squirrels have already made their way into the attic, the best course of action is to live trap the squirrels and release them at least five miles away from the home. Squirrel traps can be used to capture the squirrels, but it's important to remember that proper handling and releasing of wildlife should be left to wildlife removal experts. Following these exclusion techniques and seeking help from wildlife removal experts can help prevent reinfestation of flying squirrels.
Damage Prevention Strategies
Homeowners should routinely inspect their property for any signs of gnawing, scratching, or damage caused by flying squirrels, as these pests can cause significant harm if left unchecked. Flying squirrels can create havoc in attics, crawl spaces, and even inside walls. Their urine and feces can cause unpleasant odors and pose health risks. Additionally, they can chew on electrical wires, creating a fire hazard, and damage insulation, leading to energy inefficiency. To prevent such problems, homeowners can employ various damage prevention strategies, as shown in the table below.
| Damage Prevention Strategies | Description |
|---|---|
| Regular Inspection | Check for signs of squirrel activity, such as gnawing marks and droppings, in the attic and around the house. |
| Professional Wildlife Control | Hire a professional to remove squirrels and seal entry points to prevent reinfestation. |
| Repair Broken Windows | Ensure all windows are intact to prevent squirrels from entering the house. |
| Installation of Exclusion Doors | Place exclusion doors at potential entry points to deter squirrels from accessing the property. |
Importance of Professional Assistance
When dealing with flying squirrel infestations, homeowners can benefit from seeking professional assistance to ensure safe and effective removal. Calling a wildlife control professional to take care of squirrels in your attic is crucial for several reasons:
- Expertise and Equipment: Professional wildlife technicians possess expert knowledge and have the necessary equipment to effectively trap or exclude flying squirrels.
- Humane Removal Methods: They can ensure humane removal of the whole colony and use exclusion methods such as a one-way exclusion door, preventing the squirrels from re-entering the attic.
- Prevention of Future Infestations: Wildlife control operators can seal shut entry points with steel, preventing future infestations.
- Thorough Services: Hiring professionals ensures thorough services, including attic cleanup and repairs, to prevent future infestations and ensure customer satisfaction.
- Efficiency and Effectiveness: Professional wildlife technicians provide prompt and efficient service, addressing the importance of consulting a wildlife technician for proper pest control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Keep Flying Squirrels Away?
To keep flying squirrels away, one can employ natural deterrents, exclusion methods, noise deterrents, ultrasonic devices, habitat modification, professional trapping, repellent sprays, electric fencing, predator decoys, and tree trimming. These methods help discourage flying squirrels from frequenting the area and prevent them from causing damage. Implementing these strategies can effectively deter flying squirrels and protect the property from potential harm.
How Do You Get Rid of Flying Squirrels Diy?
To get rid of flying squirrels DIY, one can use natural repellents, exclusion methods, trapping techniques, environmental modifications, and DIY deterrents. Natural repellents, such as predator urine, can deter squirrels. Exclusion methods involve sealing entry points with steel screen. Trapping techniques using live traps baited with fruits and nuts can be effective. Environmental modifications, like habitat alteration, can discourage them. DIY deterrents include electronic devices and repellent sprays. If DIY methods fail, professional services may be needed.
What Bait to Use to Trap Flying Squirrels?
The best baits to use for trapping flying squirrels include fruits, nuts, and vegetables. These baits are effective in luring the squirrels into live traps for humane removal. DIY solutions like using natural deterrents and safe repellents can also help in squirrel proofing and preventive measures. However, for more challenging situations, professional services may be necessary for effective and safe removal, minimizing environmental impact.
Will Mothballs Keep Flying Squirrels Away?
Mothballs are not effective at deterring flying squirrels. Instead, natural repellents like essential oils or professional removal services are recommended. Squirrel-proofing your home, wildlife exclusion, and trapping methods are effective in preventing infestations. Habitat modification, ultrasonic devices, and fencing options are also viable solutions. DIY deterrents are available but may not be as effective as professional methods. It's best to consult with wildlife removal experts for the most reliable and humane removal and prevention techniques.