Squirrels are energetic and resourceful creatures that can be delightful to watch in the wild. However, when they invade gardens, damage property, or raid bird feeders, they can quickly become a nuisance. If you’re struggling with unwanted squirrel activity, there are humane and effective ways to deter them.
Why Do Squirrels Become a Problem?
Squirrels are primarily drawn to areas where they can find food, water, and shelter. They can:
- Raid bird feeders for seeds and nuts.
- Chew on wiring and wood, potentially causing property damage.
- Dig up gardens and flowerbeds to bury or retrieve food.
- Nest in attics or lofts, leading to insulation damage and noise.
Understanding what attracts squirrels is the first step to keeping them away.
Tips to Deter Squirrels
1. Secure Food Sources
Squirrels are opportunistic eaters, so removing or limiting their access to food can reduce their interest in your property:
- Use squirrel-proof bird feeders: Invest in feeders designed to keep squirrels out while allowing birds to feed.
- Clear fallen nuts and fruit: Regularly rake up any fallen food from trees.
- Store food securely: Keep pet food, bird seed, and rubbish in sealed containers.
2. Modify Their Environment
Make your property less inviting to squirrels:
- Trim tree branches: Cut back branches that are close to your roof to prevent squirrels from jumping onto your home, where they can cause damage.
- Install barriers: Use mesh or metal screens to block access to attics, vents, and chimneys.
- Protect garden beds: Cover flowerbeds with netting or chicken wire to stop digging.
3. Use Natural Deterrents
Squirrels have sensitive noses and dislike certain scents:
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chilli powder: Apply it to birdseed or areas where squirrels are active (it won’t harm birds).
- Use predator scents: Products that mimic the smell of predators, like fox urine, can deter squirrels. Fox urine can be bought on Amazon.
- Plant squirrel-repelling plants: Try daffodils or marigolds, which squirrels tend to avoid.
4. Install Motion-Activated Devices
Modern technology can help keep squirrels at bay:
- Motion-activated sprinklers: These spray water when movement is detected, scaring off squirrels.
- Ultrasonic repellents: Devices that emit high-frequency sounds can be effective but may not be suitable for areas with other pets.
5. Encourage Natural Predators
If you live in an area where squirrels are prevalent, encourage natural predators like owls or hawks by installing nesting boxes.
Trapping & Dispatching Squirrels
Trapping squirrels is legal in the UK, but it is subject to specific regulations to ensure humane and lawful practices.
Legal Status of Grey and Red Squirrels
- Grey Squirrels: Classified as an invasive non-native species, grey squirrels can be legally trapped and humanely dispatched. It is illegal to release a captured grey squirrel back into the wild under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019.
- Red Squirrels: As a protected endangered species, red squirrels must not be harmed or trapped. If red squirrels are present in your area, extra caution is necessary to avoid accidental capture. Accidental or deliberate capture of a red squirrel can be a criminal offence.
Approved Trapping Methods
- Live-Capture Traps: These traps capture squirrels without causing harm, allowing for humane dispatch. When using live traps, it’s essential to check them regularly to prevent unnecessary suffering i.e. starvation.
- Spring Traps: Certain spring traps are approved for use in capturing grey squirrels. These traps must comply with the Spring Traps Approval (England) Order 2018, which specifies approved designs and usage conditions.
Humane Dispatch
Captured grey squirrels must be humanely dispatched. Methods include a single shot to the head or a swift blow to the back of the head. It’s crucial to ensure that the method used causes immediate unconsciousness followed by death to prevent unnecessary suffering.
Legal Considerations
- Licensing: While trapping grey squirrels doesn’t require a specific license, if you’re operating in areas designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), you may need consent from the relevant conservation agency.
- Animal Welfare: Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, causing unnecessary suffering to any animal is an offence. Therefore, it’s imperative to follow humane practices when trapping and dispatching squirrels.
Best Practices
- Regular Monitoring: Check traps at least once daily to ensure captured animals do not suffer unnecessarily.
- Proper Training: If you’re not experienced with trapping and dispatching squirrels, seek guidance or hire a professional pest controller to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards
When to Call a Professional
Deterring squirrels requires a combination of prevention, deterrents, and habitat modification. If squirrels persist despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek professional help. At Merlin Environmental, we specialise in humane and effective squirrel control for commercial properties. Our experts can assess your situation and implement tailored solutions to prevent squirrel damage and nuisance. By following these steps, you can protect your property and enjoy a squirrel-free environment. For persistent problems, contact Merlin Environmental today for expert advice and professional pest control services.
