Squirrels, while cute and seemingly harmless, can become a major nuisance when they invade homes or commercial properties. These small rodents are incredibly agile and resourceful, able to squeeze through tiny openings to access attics, basements, and roofs. Once inside, they can cause structural damage, create fire hazards by chewing on electrical wiring, and leave behind droppings that compromise health and hygiene. For homeowners and business owners, the question is not whether squirrels will become a problem but when. That’s where professional squirrel control company step in to provide effective, safe, and lasting solutions.
Understanding the Squirrel Problem
Squirrels are part of the rodent family, known for their intelligence, dexterity, and adaptability. While many people enjoy watching squirrels in their gardens or local parks, the situation changes drastically when these animals find their way into your property. Squirrels are notorious for chewing on wood, insulation, and wires, which can result in expensive repairs. They can also carry fleas, ticks, and other parasites that pose health risks to humans and pets.
The most common species causing problems in urban and suburban areas are the Eastern Gray Squirrel and the Fox Squirrel. Both species are highly adaptable and can thrive in residential areas where trees, bird feeders, and accessible food sources are plentiful. Unlike other pests that are easier to detect and trap, squirrels are quick, clever, and primarily active during the day, which makes controlling their population a unique challenge.
Why DIY Solutions Often Fail
Many property owners attempt to deal with squirrel infestations on their own. While there are a variety of DIY methods available, such as traps, repellents, and noise devices, these solutions are often only temporarily effective. Squirrels are intelligent and can quickly learn to avoid traps or bypass barriers. Moreover, DIY solutions carry risks, including injury to the animal, damage to your property, and even potential legal issues. Some species of squirrels are protected under local wildlife laws, meaning that improper handling could lead to fines or other penalties.
Attempting to block entry points without a proper inspection can also be futile. Squirrels are capable of squeezing through holes as small as 1.5 inches, and they often find multiple entry points into attics, roofs, and walls. Without professional expertise, it is nearly impossible to identify all access points and ensure long-term protection.
The Role of a Professional Squirrel Control Company
A professional squirrel control company offers a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing squirrel infestations. Unlike DIY methods, these experts use a combination of inspection, removal, and prevention techniques tailored to the specific needs of your property. The process typically begins with a thorough inspection to identify entry points, nesting areas, and the extent of the infestation. This allows the professionals to create a customized control plan that addresses both immediate removal and long-term prevention.
Professional squirrel control companies also have access to humane removal methods. Live trapping and exclusion techniques are commonly used to capture squirrels safely and relocate them away from your property. Additionally, they provide repair services to seal entry points and prevent future invasions. By addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of the problem, these companies provide solutions that are both effective and sustainable.
Safety and Health Considerations
One of the most important reasons to hire a professional squirrel control company is safety. Squirrels can cause significant damage to electrical wiring, insulation, and structural elements, creating potential fire hazards. Their droppings can also carry diseases such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), which can pose serious health risks to humans and pets. Professional technicians are trained to handle these risks safely, using protective equipment and proper sanitation methods to prevent exposure.
Moreover, professional companies ensure that removal is done humanely. Untrained individuals attempting to remove squirrels may inadvertently harm the animals or create dangerous situations. Professionals follow wildlife regulations and use techniques that prioritize both human safety and animal welfare.
Prevention is Key
Removing squirrels is only part of the solution. Preventing future infestations is equally important, and this is an area where professional companies excel. Prevention strategies may include sealing potential entry points, trimming tree branches near the roof, installing chimney caps, and using squirrel-proof vents and barriers. Professionals can also advise on landscaping and food storage practices that make your property less attractive to squirrels.
Long-term prevention requires ongoing maintenance and monitoring. A professional squirrel control company will provide guidance on periodic inspections and necessary adjustments to ensure that your property remains squirrel-free.
Signs You May Need Squirrel Control
Early detection is crucial in preventing major damage. There are several signs that indicate a squirrel problem may be present. Noises such as scratching, scampering, or gnawing in the attic or walls are often the first indicators. Droppings, chewed wires or wood, and nests made of insulation or leaves are other common signs. If you notice these symptoms, it is essential to contact a professional squirrel control company promptly. Early intervention can save substantial repair costs and reduce health risks.
Choosing the Right Squirrel Control Company
Not all squirrel control companies offer the same level of service. When selecting a company, consider factors such as experience, reputation, and methods used. Look for companies that specialize in wildlife control rather than general pest management, as squirrel infestations require specific expertise. Reviews, certifications, and guarantees can also help you assess the quality of service. A reputable company will provide a clear plan of action, communicate effectively throughout the process, and ensure that both removal and prevention measures are implemented successfully.
Cost Considerations
Many property owners are concerned about the cost of professional squirrel control services. While pricing varies depending on the extent of the infestation, property size, and specific techniques used, investing in professional help is often more cost-effective than dealing with ongoing damage and repeated DIY attempts. The cost of repairing chewed wiring, damaged insulation, or structural damage can far exceed the expense of professional removal and prevention services. Moreover, many companies offer packages that include both removal and preventive measures, providing comprehensive protection for your property.
Eco-Friendly and Humane Options
Today, many professional squirrel control companies prioritize humane and eco-friendly methods. Live trapping and relocation, exclusion techniques, and natural deterrents minimize harm to wildlife while effectively protecting your property. These methods also align with local wildlife regulations and demonstrate responsible stewardship. By choosing a company committed to humane practices, property owners can address their squirrel problem without contributing to unnecessary animal suffering.
Conclusion: Protect Your Home and Peace of Mind
Squirrels may appear harmless at first glance, but they can quickly become destructive and pose serious health and safety risks. Attempting to manage a squirrel infestation on your own is often ineffective and potentially dangerous. A professional squirrel control company provides the expertise, tools, and strategies necessary to remove squirrels safely and prevent future invasions. From thorough inspections to humane removal, structural repairs, and long-term prevention, these experts ensure that your property remains secure and free from squirrel-related damage.
By investing in professional squirrel control services, homeowners and business owners gain peace of mind, knowing that their property is protected from the persistent threats posed by these clever and resourceful rodents. Early intervention, professional expertise, and ongoing prevention are the keys to keeping your home or business safe, healthy, and squirrel-free.
