Squirrels are a strange member of the pest world, essentially because many people do not consider them a pest at all. However, regardless of their ‘cuteness’, they can cause an incredible amount of damage in a very short space of time.
In this article, we’ll outline the reasons why they have to be dealt with due to their tendency to cause damage to your property as well as their ability to carry disease.
Edinburgh Pest Control Co. is just a call away, and our technicians are ready to deal with any pest problem you might have. Call us today on 0131 322 1291.
Four Issues That Squirrels Cause
Squirrels, like any rodent, can cause a lot of problems. However, there are a few that are particularly pressing:
- Squirrels will strip wires of their rubber coating.
- They will damage wooden structures and roofing.
- They will tear apart insulation to build nests.
- They are able to spread a number of diseases through their excrement.
Squirrels in the wild are known for their destructive habits. They regularly kill younger trees by stripping away their soft bark and exposing them. In the absence of trees, squirrels will turn their attention to any other form of wood.
They also have a habit of chewing in order to keep their continuously growing incisors under control. Wires are victim number one, and they will rip off the rubber insulation, exposing the wires underneath.
At best, the equipment they choose to chew on will break. At worst, however, they will cause a fire to start.
Rodents will also destroy textiles and, especially, fibreglass insulation. This is because they need to find warm materials to stay warm. In fact, the need to stay heated is the main reason as to why they try and make their way indoors during Winter.
As you can imagine, the damage that can build up will be incredibly costly. Not only will your insulation be compromised, but your soft furnishings will be damaged.
Lastly, squirrels carry a number of contagions which they can pass to human beings. They will regularly make their way into water tanks in order to drink, leaving infectious urine and faeces behind them.
How Glasgow Pest Control Co. Handle Squirrels
We have a number of options available to us when it comes to getting rid of squirrels.
First and foremost, poisonous bait is no longer allowed by law. Although it can be used to deal with other rodents, squirrels cannot be lethally baited.
Instead, we can use traps. Live traps can be placed with bait inside in order to catch and trap squirrels. This is a fantastic option and allows us to take the squirrels out of your home before they are dealt with.
Spring traps are another method. These traps are quick and humane and will deal with the squirrels swiftly and painlessly. British legislation offers strict rules regarding what traps can be employed.
Proofing techniques are vital when it comes to keeping squirrels outside of your home. We can either do this when squirrels have been dealt with or before they are a problem at all. Our technicians have the experience and equipment to identified possible entranceways and seal them off.
How are Red Squirrels Controlled?
The first thing to note is that it is very uncommon to see a red squirrel in Edinburgh, even in the surrounding areas. It is even more unlikely that they will make their nest within your home.
Red squirrels are a threatened species and are protected strictly under British wildlife legislation. Although we are allowed to catch them, they need to be released as soon as possible.
When Is Squirrel Activity Most Common?
You should never be surprised that squirrels have infested your home. However, the coldest months of the year, generally October through to March.
Squirrels are happy to remain outside when temperatures aren’t critically cold. They prefer to stay away from humans whenever possible and generally have plenty of access to food. And have no trouble staying comfortable.
Get in Touch
Our company provides dependable results for squirrels and all other pest problems. We carry out tried and tested methods with modern and industry-leading equipment.
Give us a call today on 0131 322 1291 for more details, or alternatively, fill in our contact form, and one of our personnel will be in touch as soon as possible.
