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Squirrels are one of the most common species of wildlife the average city dweller runs into, and most of the time, these rodents are found around lawns, trees, and bushes. Squirrels are famous for grabbing acorns and nuts and hiding them in the ground, as well as running up trees and across electrical wires, rooftops, and other areas.
For the most part, squirrels are generally not a nuisance. However, since they live in such close proximity to homes and other buildings they can get inside walls, attics, basements, and other areas of your home.
If you have a problem with squirrels in your home or business, contact your local Western Exterminator office to set up a property inspection and a method of squirrel removal and prevention.
Contact our local squirrel control experts!
Wildlife control
See how Western Exterminator controls different types of wildlife
Squirrel identification
What do squirrels look like?
- Size: 8-12” in length including their tail
- Color: Vary in color - white, gray, red, tan, brown, and/or black
- Body: Small and slender bodies with big bushy tails
Signs of a squirrel problem
Property damage
Like rats and mice, squirrels will chew on wires and cables, leaving wires exposed and potentially causing a fire hazard. In their attempt to find warm places to nest and hide food, squirrels will pry up damaged roof tiles, gnaw their way into siding to get between walls, and will get into attics and basements to build nests.
Though squirrels hide their food in trees, spaces, and holes already in existence, they will also dig up new holes all over your lawn, garden, and other vegetation to hide acorns and other food.
Stripped bark from trees
Some species of squirrels strip bark off of trees and ornamental plants. Squirrels mostly strip the bark from tree branches, but they have been known to strip the bark from tree trunks as well. This sign is most prevalent in the winter, as that is when squirrels strip bark, but it can be spotted in the spring, too.
How to get rid of squirrels
Western Exterminator wildlife Technicians know how to find where squirrels are gaining access to your property and where they may be hiding in your home or building. Your Technician will use one or both of the methods below to get rid of squirrels on your property.
Trapping
Trapping, combined with exclusion methods, will be implemented to both remove the squirrels from your property and prevent them from returning.
Contact us about squirrel trapping
Exclusion
For exclusion, any entry points on your property that may give the squirrels access to your home or business will be closed off. One-way doors may also be used for exclusion, as these devices will allow the squirrel to exit the structure but not reenter.
In addition to getting rid of squirrels, your Technician will work with you to find what the squirrels are using as access points to offer advice about preventing squirrels from getting in again.
Contact us about squirrel exclusion servicesAll Western Technicians are state certified and follow state and municipality regulations. All Technicians attend regular training to stay up-to-date on the most effective squirrel control and removal solutions.
Frequently asked questions
Where do squirrels live?
Squirrels live in trees. They build very large nests high in the trees to give birth, hide food, and raise their young. Squirrels survive in rural areas but also adapt well to urban areas.
Geographically speaking, squirrels are found all across North America. They are highly adaptive and live in both warmer climates and in climates that experience severe winters. Squirrels are also found in all corners of the world, except for Antarctica and the Arctic Circle.
Are squirrels dangerous?
Squirrels are more of a nuisance than dangerous. However, if cornered or sick, squirrels will bite to fight their way out of a situation.