Squirrels are a common type of rodent found in this region. As with mice, rats, and other rodents, squirrels have overgrown front teeth that inspire them to continually gnaw on things, which may represent a major problem when this activity involves wiring, cabling, or other materials that exist in your home. Typically referred to as tree squirrels, these pests have long, bushy tails and demonstrate excellent skills in climbing.
Aside from causing property damage, squirrels might carry dangerous parasites. The three primary types of squirrels found in this region include gray squirrels, flying squirrels, and red squirrels.
What attracts squirrels to homes in this region? Properties with multiple large trees are among those most often housing squirrels. In many cases, squirrels will find an opening after storms create damage to roofs, eaves, and gutter systems and enter the upper floors of the structure. Squirrels often construct nests indoors, which allows them shelter from the weather and a degree of protection from predators such as birds of prey or coyotes.
What are the best methods for preventing squirrels? Regularly inspecting the exterior of the property and making any necessary repairs is a critical preventative measure. A licensed and properly trained Portsmouth pest control professional knows the many best treatment options for eliminating squirrel intrusions safely and effectively.
Where Squirrels Like To Hide
Most types of squirrels will infiltrate the property’s exterior and find that wall voids and attics are suitable locations for establishing a nest. Many property owners initially detect the presence of squirrels when they hear them scurrying around within walls or on attic floors. With their excellent climbing abilities, squirrels generally will seek areas that afford them some warmth and shelter.
Deterring Squirrels In Your Attic
Some property owners will struggle with preventing squirrels from entering the interior when they reside in older homes that might need some maintenance and repairs. Some of the best ways of limiting attic infiltration include:
- Trim back tree branches that allow squirrels easy access to upper parts of the structure’s exterior.
- Install durable screening or mesh-like materials over vents, chimneys, and other openings that will prevent squirrels from entering.
- Install a band of sheet metal that measures two feet or more around the trunk of trees that is at least six feet off of the ground.
- Remember that inspecting the attic from the inside is often useful, as light passing through from the exterior may reveal the areas that need sealing or filling.
- Squirrels that enter attic areas might initially go unnoticed until these creatures begin reproducing, which makes expelling them more challenging.
Getting Rid Of Squirrels In Crawl Spaces
A squirrel may gain access to a crawl space through a small opening and begin sleeping, storing food, and raising its offspring. Fill in any gaps that exist around window or door frames. Limit potential hiding spots by removing unnecessary clutter and debris near the base of the structure. Keep in mind that these preventative measures are no substitute for having assistance from an experienced pest control professional.
Total Wildlife Control For Portsmouth Homes
Many Portsmouth-area homeowners are drawn to home improvement stores that market sticky traps, snap traps, or concentrated formulas that are supposedly a “quick and easy” solution to rodent-related problems. After several weeks or months, many of these people find that their efforts were unsuccessful and experience frustration. Making matters worse, most rodents are prolific breeders that generate offspring and create a full-blown infestation.
The local experts with Freedom Pest Control understand the best ways of ousting these types of pests and recognize the best preventative measures. In addition to squirrels and other types of rodents, our specialists also will expel ants, bed bugs, and various forms of wildlife.
Our staff receives the latest training and often have the newest products introduced in the pest control industry. Contact our office today to schedule an onsite property inspection.