Understanding Squirrel Behavior

The Social Habits of Squirrels

Squirrels are known for their social habits. While they do not typically live in groups like other rodents, squirrels are often spotted in close proximity to one another and have a complex set of vocalizations and physical behaviors they use to communicate. Understanding these patterns can help in devising methods to get rid of them from specific areas. They can be curiously bold around humans, especially if they associate people with food. This boldness makes it necessary to employ thoughtful and kind strategies for deterrence.

Feeding Patterns of Squirrels

Squirrels are predominantly herbivorous, eating a diet that consists of a variety of plants, nuts, seeds, fruits, blossoms, and fresh young shoots. However, squirrels also possess the adaptability to incorporate insects, bird eggs, and small vertebrates into their diet when vegetation is scarce. Their varied diet is indicative of their flexibility in adapting to different environments, thus making them slightly difficult to control and get rid of.

Squirrels and Their Environment

Contrary to popular belief, squirrels do not solely inhabit trees but have been able to adapt to a variety of environments including urban regions. They are opportunistic nesters, using tree holes, leaf nests or even attics and basements in human homes, if accessible. These environmental considerations are crucial to address when identifying ways to discourage squirrel presence.

Humane and Effective Strategies to Get Rid of Squirrels

Preventive Measures

Making the environment less appealing to squirrels is often the first step in discouragement. This could range from modifying the landscaping to removing food sources, blocking entry points to buildings, or even using certain odors or visual deterrents that squirrels find off-putting. A multi-faceted approach that addresses the squirrel’s basic requirements of food, water, shelter and safety from predators is usually most effective.

Non-Lethal Repellents

The market offers a variety of non-lethal squirrel repellents ranging from sprays to electronic devices. Some of these work to disrupt the squirrel’s sense of taste or smell, making certain food sources or habitats unpalatable. Electronic repellents, on the other hand, may generate ultrasonic noises that are distressing to squirrels but inaudible to humans. Familiarizing oneself with these products, their effectiveness, and application methods is a good strategy to consider.

Professional Animal Control

In severe cases where squirrels have entrenched themselves in an environment or caused a substantial degree of damage, it might be necessary to call in professional animal control services. These professionals have the experience, knowledge, and tools to handle a squirrel issue in a humane yet effective manner. This method can provide a thorough and longer-lasting solution compared to do-it-yourself approaches.

Precautions and Ethical Considerations

Handling and Health Risks

While squirrels are relatively harmless, they can act as carriers for certain diseases or parasites that can be passed on to humans through bites or exposure. Therefore, it's important to handle squirrel deterrence with care, avoiding direct contact. Handling should ideally be left to professionals equipped with the right protective gear.

Local Wildlife Laws

Before undertaking any measures to get rid of squirrels, it is also worthwhile to check local wildlife laws. Many jurisdictions have specific regulations about the treatment of wildlife, including squirrels, and these laws often encourage or mandate humane methods of deterrence.

Squirrels and Biodiversity

Squirrels play an important role in their ecosystem, aiding in seed dispersal and providing a food source for predators. Any efforts to deter them should, therefore, be balanced with an understanding of their function in maintaining biodiversity. Implementing humane and considerate measures is not just a legal necessity, but an ethical one as well.