Living in close proximity to nature is one of the perks of residing in Pennsylvania, but it also means dealing with wildlife encounters. Squirrels, with their nimble nature, can find their way into your home if proper preventative measures are not taken. By understanding their behavior and employing effective strategies, you can protect your property and maintain a peaceful coexistence with these furry critters.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior
To effectively prevent squirrels from entering your PA home, it is crucial to understand their behavior. Squirrels are agile climbers and adept at jumping long distances. They are attracted to food sources and cozy shelter, which often leads them to residential areas. Knowing their habits and preferences will help you strategize your prevention methods.
Identifying Squirrel Entry Points
The first step in squirrel prevention is identifying the potential entry points around your home. Inspect your property thoroughly, paying close attention to areas such as vents, chimneys, gaps in the roofline, and loose siding. Squirrels can squeeze through small openings, so it’s essential to seal any gaps or cracks you discover.
Securing Exterior Openings
To keep squirrels out of your home, you need to secure all exterior openings. Use sturdy materials like hardware cloth or steel mesh to cover vents, chimneys, and other vulnerable areas. Ensure that the coverings are tightly fastened to prevent squirrels from prying them open.
Fortifying Your Roof
Squirrels are skilled climbers and can easily access your roof. They may cause damage by chewing on shingles and creating entry points. Install squirrel guards made of metal around tree trunks to prevent them from reaching the roof. Additionally, trim tree branches that are close to your house to limit their access.
Protecting Your Garden and Bird Feeders
Squirrels are notorious for raiding gardens and bird feeders. To safeguard your plants, consider placing wire mesh or fencing around your garden beds. Opt for squirrel-resistant bird feeders that are designed to keep them at bay while still allowing birds to feed. Placing feeders away from trees and structures will also make it harder for squirrels to reach them.
Utilizing Natural Repellents
There are several natural repellents you can use to deter squirrels from your property. Sprinkle cayenne pepper or hot sauce around vulnerable areas, as squirrels dislike the spicy scent. Mothballs and predator urine, available at garden centers, can also be effective deterrents. Just be sure to follow the instructions and use them safely.
Implementing Exclusion Methods
Exclusion methods involve creating barriers that prevent squirrels from accessing certain areas. Use metal flashing to cover gaps between your roof and nearby trees or overhanging branches. Install chimney caps and vent covers to keep squirrels out while still allowing proper airflow.
Seeking Professional Assistance
If you are facing persistent squirrel problems despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek professional assistance. Wildlife removal experts have the knowledge and experience to handle squirrel infestations safely and effectively. They can employ humane trapping and exclusion techniques to resolve the issue and prevent future occurrences.
Taking proactive steps to prevent squirrels from invading your Pennsylvania home can save you from costly damages and potential hazards. By understanding squirrel behavior, securing exterior openings, fortifying your roof, protecting your garden, utilizing natural repellents, implementing exclusion methods, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can create a squirrel-free environment while maintaining harmony with nature.
