Wildlife Control

Squirrels and Their Behaviour

Squirrels are annoying garden pests that can damage plants, bird feeders and food sources. They are particularly good at stealing sunflower seeds from bird feeders and often outsmart traditional squirrel proof designs. Whether you have grey squirrels, red squirrels or different types of ground squirrels, you need to find a squirrel repellent to keep them out of your yard. From natural solutions to physical barriers, there are many ways to deter squirrels and protect your garden.

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Natural Squirrel Repellents

Spicy Solutions

Spicy ingredients like cayenne pepper and hot sauce will repel squirrels. Mix these ingredients with water in a spray bottle and spray on plants, birdseed and food sources to stop squirrels from eating them. Since the scent fades away over time it should be reapplied frequently to remain effective.

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Scent Based Repellents

Certain scents like peppermint oil, garlic and onions are natural deterrents. Squirrels and other rodents don’t like the strong smell of these substances. A few drops of peppermint oil mixed with water can be sprayed around feeders, fences and trees to keep squirrels away.

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Predator Urine

The presence of predators will scare squirrels away. Predator urine like coyote, bear, or fox will create the illusion of danger. This method takes advantage of squirrels natural fear of these animals.

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Physical Barriers to Keep Squirrels Out

Hardware Cloth Wire Screen and Fences

Installing a strong wire screen and sturdy fences around gardens will keep squirrels from getting to plants and food sources. Don’t bother using chicken wire though, they can chew right through that. These barriers can also be placed around trees to prevent squirrels from climbing and damaging branches. Make sure there are no gaps in your roofline, to block squirrels out.

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Protecting Bird Feeders

Bird feeders attract squirrels because of the seeds and nuts they contain. Squirrels are good at stealing sunflower seeds from feeders and often outsmart traditional squirrel proof designs. Placing feeders on poles with baffles or using squirrel proof designs will keep squirrels from getting to the birdseed. Hanging feeders away from trees and fences will also make it harder for squirrels to get to them.

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Hanging and Placement Strategy

Proper placement of bird feeders and garden structures will stop squirrels from accessing food sources. Hanging feeders high off the ground and away from fences will limit their access. Strategically placing deterrents like motion-activated sprinklers will also keep squirrels out of certain areas.

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Motion-Activated & Scare Tactics

Motion-Activated Sprinklers

Water is a great way for removing squirrels from gardens and yards. Motion-activated sprinklers will startle and repel squirrels without harming them. This method also benefits other plants and wildlife by keeping garden pests away.

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Decoys & Predators

Placing decoys like fake owls and hawks will sometimes scare squirrels and other critters away. The presence of real predators like dogs will also deter squirrels. Since squirrels adapt quickly to their surroundings, moving decoys around frequently will increase their effectiveness.

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Sound and Light Deterrents

Squirrels are sensitive to sudden sounds and flashing lights. Devices that produce ultrasonic noises or motion-activated lights will startle squirrels and keep them from settling in an area. These deterrents are good for yards with persistent squirrel populations.

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Managing Food Sources & Habitat

Eliminating Attraction Factors

Removing access to food sources is one of the most effective ways to keep squirrels out of your yard. Cleaning up spilled birdseed, nuts and corn from the ground will prevent squirrels from being attracted to the area. Other methods could include replacing sunflower seeds with safflower seeds in the feeders as squirrels don’t like them and won’t eat them.

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Controlling Bird Feeding Habits

Many people feed birds without realizing they are also attracting squirrels. Squirrels are good at stealing seeds from feeders and often outsmart traditional squirrel proof designs. Using feeders designed to deter squirrels while still allowing birds like finches and sparrows to get seeds will balance wildlife interactions. Feeding birds in areas away from trees and fences will also limit squirrel activity.

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Clearing Fallen Food & Debris

Squirrels are opportunistic animals that take advantage of food on the ground. Regularly raking up fallen seeds, fruit, nuts and other food sources will prevent squirrels from scavenging. Keeping the yard clean will reduce the chance of attracting pests and other wildlife.

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Chemical & Commercial Squirrel Repellents

Store Bought Deterrents

There are many commercial squirrel repellents available, sprays and scent-based deterrents. Many of these products contain ingredients like pepper, garlic or predator scents that deter squirrels from yards and gardens.

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Safety Precautions

When using repellents, consider its effect on humans, pets and wildlife. Some chemical repellents can harm birds, deer and other mammals. Choose natural or non-toxic options to keep other animals safe.

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Reapplication Tips

Repellents must be reapplied regularly. Rain, wind and time can weaken the scent of sprays and other deterrents. Check treated areas regularly and reapply as needed to keep your yard squirrel free.

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Choosing the Right Repellent for Your Yard

When it comes to repelling the squirrel species, homeowners have many options from chemical repellents to physical barriers and homemade solutions. Chemical repellents like cayenne pepper and predator urine can be effective but often need to be reapplied to maintain their potency. Physical barriers like wire and fencing are great for excluding squirrels from specific areas like gardens and bird feeders.

Homemade solutions like peppermint oil and hot pepper spray are cost effective and eco friendly. When selecting a repellent consider the type of squirrel you have, the size and layout of your yard and the impact on other wildlife like birds and beneficial insects.

A combination of repellents and exclusion methods usually yields the best results in keeping squirrels away. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using commercial repellents and take necessary precautions to avoid exposure. By choosing and applying the right repellent you can deter squirrels and protect your yard.

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Additional Squirrel Control Tips

Beyond using repellents, there are several proactive steps you can take to manage squirrel populations in your yard. Start by removing attractants like food sources and shelter to discourage squirrels from visiting. Motion-activated sprinklers can be a great tool to scare squirrels away, squirrel proof bird feeders will keep your birdseed out of their reach. Planting squirrel resistant plants like daffodils and hyacinths will make your garden less appealing to them. If needed, consider using a squirrel trap but always check local regulations, handle the squirrels humanely and never, ever trap during baby season. Seal any holes or gaps in your home or outbuildings to prevent squirrels from getting in. If they have gained entry to your roof, contact a wildlife control company near your area to assist you.

Keeping your yard clean is key; don’t leave pet food or bird seed on the ground as this will attract squirrels. If you have a severe squirrel infestation or aren’t sure how to manage the problem, consult a squirrel removal professional for expert advice and affordable solutions. By following these additional tips you can prevent squirrels from becoming a persistent problem in your yard.

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Conclusion

Repelling squirrels requires a combination of natural deterrents, physical barriers and strategic planning. Whether using spicy sprays, predator scents or motion-activated sprinklers there are many ways to prevent squirrels from damaging gardens and bird feeders. With the right methods in place you can have a balanced environment where birds and other wildlife can thrive without interference from squirrels.