5 Tested Tips: How to Get a Squirrel Out of Your House Effortlessly
Unwanted house guests can be a real hassle, especially when they have sharp claws and bushy tails. If you’ve found yourself sharing your abode with a furry little squirrel, don’t panic! Getting it out can be a breeze with the right approach.
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1. Open All Exit Points
The simplest solution is often the best. If you can identify where the squirrel entered, simply open up all windows and doors leading to that area. Leave them open for a few hours, and hopefully, the squirrel will find its way out on its own.
2. Seal Off All Entry Points
If the squirrel has already made itself cozy in your house, you may need to take a more proactive approach. Seal off any holes or cracks in your walls, ceilings, and floors that it could use to get in and out. This will prevent it from re-entering after you’ve coaxed it out.
3. Create a Humane Squirrel Trap
If the open door method doesn’t work, you can try setting up a humane squirrel trap. These traps are designed to capture the squirrel without harming it. Place the trap in an area where you’ve seen the squirrel, and bait it with something it loves, like nuts or fruits.
4. Humane Harassment: Make Your House Uncomfortable
Squirrels are known for being curious and playful creatures. If you can make your house less appealing to them, they may decide to leave on their own. Try playing loud music, leaving the lights on, or spraying a squirrel repellent (available at hardware stores) around your home.
5. Call a Professional Wildlife Removal Service
If all else fails, don’t hesitate to call a professional wildlife removal service. These experts have the experience and equipment to safely remove the squirrel from your home and keep it from returning.
Comparison Table: DIY vs. Professional Squirrel Removal
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| DIY | Cost-effective, Can be done immediately | May not be effective, Can be dangerous if the squirrel is aggressive |
| Professional | Safe and effective, Guaranteed results, May be expensive | Can take time, May require multiple visits |
Conclusion
Getting a squirrel out of your house doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success and keep your furry friend from becoming a permanent houseguest. If you have any other questions or encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to check out our other articles on squirrel removal or consult a professional wildlife expert.
FAQ about How to Get a Squirrel Out of Your House
How do I know if there’s a squirrel in my house?
- P: Check for signs of damage, such as holes in walls or chewed wires.
- A: Listen for noises, such as scratching, scampering, or gnawing.
- S: Look for droppings or fur around potential entry points.
What should I do if I find a squirrel in my house?
- P: Stay calm and avoid sudden movements.
- A: Open windows or doors to provide an escape route.
- S: Use a broom or other object to gently guide the squirrel towards the exit.
How do I prevent squirrels from entering my house?
- P: Seal up any holes or cracks in your exterior walls.
- A: Trim tree branches that may be touching your house.
- S: Remove bird feeders or other sources of food that may attract squirrels.
What if the squirrel is stuck or injured?
- P: Call a wildlife rehabilitator or animal control officer for assistance.
- A: Do not attempt to handle the squirrel yourself, as it may bite or scratch.
- S: Keep the squirrel calm and warm by covering it with a blanket until help arrives.
Can I use traps to get rid of squirrels?
- P: Live traps are humane and can be used to relocate squirrels safely.
- A: Place the trap in an area where the squirrel has been active, such as near an entry point.
- S: Bait the trap with nuts or seeds, and release the squirrel in a safe location far from your home.
What should I do if a squirrel has made a nest in my attic?
- P: Wear protective gear to avoid contact with droppings or mites.
- A: Remove the nesting material and seal off the entry point.
- S: Disinfect the area thoroughly to prevent the spread of disease.
How do I clean up after a squirrel infestation?
- P: Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from contaminants.
- A: Vacuum or sweep up any droppings or debris.
- S: Disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution or another appropriate cleaner.
What is the best time of year to remove squirrels from my house?
- P: Spring or early summer, before the squirrels have built nests and had babies.
- A: Fall or winter, when the squirrels are less active and may be more likely to enter your house for shelter.
- S: Avoid removing squirrels during mating season (February-March) or when they have young (April-May).
What if I can’t get the squirrel out of my house myself?
- P: Contact a professional pest control company or animal removal service.
- A: They have the experience and equipment to safely remove the squirrel and prevent future infestations.
- S: Be prepared to provide details about the squirrel’s activity and potential entry points.
