How to Get Squirrels Out of Walls and Ceilings
Squirrels are charming creatures, but when they find their way into your home, they can become a nuisance. Whether they’ve moved in for the warmth or are simply looking for a new place to store their acorns, squirrels in walls and ceilings can cause significant damage and disrupt your peace of mind. If you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get squirrels out of walls and ceilings effectively and safely.
Identify the Entry Point
The first step in getting rid of squirrels is to identify how they are getting into your home. Squirrels can enter through small gaps and openings, often as small as a quarter. Inspect your home’s exterior for any signs of entry points, such as chewed wood, leaves, or debris around the roofline, attic, or crawl spaces.
Seal Entry Points
Once you’ve located the entry points, it’s crucial to seal them to prevent the squirrels from returning. Use a steel wool or a heavy-duty wire mesh to cover the gaps. This will deter the squirrels from re-entering while allowing any trapped squirrels to escape.
Humanely Trap the Squirrels
To remove the squirrels from your home, you’ll need to trap them. There are several types of squirrel traps available, including live traps and kill traps. Live traps are generally preferred as they allow you to release the squirrels back into the wild. Place the trap near the entry point, ensuring it’s set in a safe and humane manner.
Remove the Squirrels
Once you’ve trapped the squirrels, carefully remove them from your home. Be cautious when handling the trap to avoid any potential harm to yourself or the squirrels. If you’re not comfortable handling the trap, consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service.
Sanitize the Infested Areas
After removing the squirrels, it’s essential to sanitize the areas they’ve been in. Squirrels can carry diseases and leave behind urine and feces, which can pose health risks. Use a disinfectant to clean the affected areas, and consider hiring a professional to handle the cleanup if necessary.
Prevent Future Infestations
To prevent future squirrel infestations, it’s important to address the factors that attracted them to your home in the first place. Keep your garden free of fallen fruits and nuts, and trim tree branches that overhang your roof. Regularly inspect your home’s exterior for any potential entry points and seal them promptly.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you’re unable to remove the squirrels on your own or if the infestation is extensive, it’s advisable to seek professional help. Wildlife removal experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools to handle squirrel infestations safely and effectively.
By following these steps, you can successfully remove squirrels from your walls and ceilings and prevent future infestations. Remember to act quickly and humanely to ensure the safety of both you and the squirrels.
