Squirrels are a small type of rodent with some distinct physical features, including bushy tails and chubby cheeks. Having great agility and climbing capabilities, squirrels easily navigate their way on or above ground through trees. As with other types of rodents, squirrels are constantly gnawing on things using their overgrown front teeth.
Several squirrel species exist in Washington, with some types found only in certain regions. The Washington State Pest Management Resource Service categorizes the squirrels in the state as either ground squirrels (Spermophilus sp.), located primarily east of the Cascades, or the much more common tree squirrels. The most prevalent tree squirrel species include the American red squirrel, eastern gray and eastern fox squirrels, Douglas gray squirrels, and northern flying squirrels.
Squirrel control in Kittitas County usually involves one or more strategies such as implementing exclusionary measures, repellants, trapping, and more. Prosite, a Kittitas County pest control company, employs qualified specialists with expertise in controlling ground squirrels. Our seasoned professionals understand the behavior of rodents and provide pest control for squirrels, mice, rats, and other unwanted creatures.
Habits And Behaviors Of Common Tree Squirrels
Squirrels usually mate during the winter or spring and generate a litter of several offspring during the late spring or summer months. Newborn squirrels typically stay with their mother for several months before venturing out alone. Many species will produce a second litter before the year ends.
Why Having Squirrels Around Your Home Is Problematic
Why should area homeowners consider implementing preventative measures for controlling squirrels on or around their property?
Squirrels routinely encounter harmful parasites and may carry leptospirosis, salmonellosis, tularemia, and other health concerns. These pests will also enter homes, contaminate surfaces with feces, and pose fire risks when chewing through wiring.
Five No-Sweat Tips To Prevent Squirrels Around Your Home
Squirrels are omnivores that relentlessly forage for food, which commonly brings these rodents into residential areas where they will establish nests. Some of the best practices for preventing squirrels include:
- Limit access to vegetable gardens using barriers such as netting.
- Keep yard areas free of attractants, including birdfeeders, bird baths, and fallen fruit.
- Closely inspect the structure's exterior for any cracks or crevices that might allow squirrels access to interior areas and promptly seal or repair them.
- Keep tree branches trimmed away from home, which squirrels use for accessing upper areas of the structure.
- Place durable mesh or a similar material across possible points of entry, including dryer vents or chimneys.
Keep in mind that squirrels primarily live in cavities or voids with small entry holes that allow for some protection from harsh weather and intrusion from predators; therefore, do not install birdhouses near the home.
The Safe And Effective Way To Get Rid Of A Squirrel Infestation
Do-it-yourself products and squirrel control methods are commonly unsuccessful and result in frustration. Local home improvement stores and online retailers promote various options, often using exaggerated claims of effectiveness. Many of these products include repellant sprays containing obscure formulas, cumbersome traps, and gimmicky ultrasonic noise-producing devices that prove mediocre at best.
The best course of action entails consulting with an established pest control company. At Prosite, our technicians conduct a complete inspection of the structure inside and outside and assess any indication of rodent activity. In many instances, our assessment reveals existing property conditions that represent a vulnerability to intrusions for squirrels and similar pests. Implementing exclusionary measures is among the most critical aspects of preventing squirrels from navigating their way indoors.
Our team will choose the best method for expelling existing squirrels, often using mechanical traps or baiting stations. After solving the immediate concerns, our staff will perform follow-up monitoring as needed, which is consistent with our goal of ensuring customer satisfaction.
We look forward to speaking with you regarding a consultation.