How to Get Rid of Squirrels

How to Get Rid of Squirrels from Sheds

Getting rid of squirrels in your shed requires a combination of deterrents, exclusion methods, and habitat modification. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Identify Entry Points – Inspect your shed for holes, cracks, or gaps that squirrels use to enter. Common spots include roof edges, vents, and loose boards.
2. Seal Off Access – Once you confirm no squirrels are inside, use materials like steel mesh, hardware cloth, or caulk to seal all entry points. If they are still inside, leave an opening and install a one-way exclusion door.
3. Remove Attractants – Store food, birdseed, and pet food in airtight containers. Keep the area clean to prevent them from returning.
4. Use Repellents – Spray natural deterrents like a mix of water and cayenne pepper, vinegar, or commercial squirrel repellents. Motion-activated lights or sound devices can also help.
5. Trap and Relocate (if legal) – Use humane live traps and release squirrels at least five miles away in a wooded area.
6. Maintain the Area – Trim overhanging branches, remove debris, and check for new entry points regularly to prevent re-infestation.

How to Capture a Squirrel in the Attic

Capturing a squirrel in your attic requires patience and a humane approach. First, identify how the squirrel is entering and exiting by looking for holes, chewed wood, or droppings. Once you locate the entry point, avoid sealing it immediately, as this may trap the squirrel inside, leading to more damage.

Next, set a live trap using bait such as peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or nuts. Place the trap near signs of activity but away from cluttered areas. Check the trap frequently to ensure the squirrel isn’t left in distress for too long.

Once captured, wear gloves and relocate the squirrel at least five miles away in a wooded area. Before sealing the entry point, ensure no other squirrels are present by using a one-way exclusion door. Finally, repair holes with durable materials like metal mesh or wood to prevent re-entry.

To deter future infestations, trim tree branches near your house, secure garbage lids, and remove food sources around your property. If the problem persists, consider contacting a wildlife control professional. Always follow local wildlife regulations to ensure humane and legal handling of squirrels.

How Get Rid of Squirrels From Gardens

Squirrels can be a nuisance in the garden, digging up plants, eating fruits, and damaging property. To deter them, use a combination of natural repellents, physical barriers, and habitat modifications.

1. Remove Food Sources
   Squirrels are attracted to gardens with easily accessible food. Secure garbage bins, pick up fallen fruit, and avoid leaving pet food outside. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders if necessary.
2. Use Repellents
   Natural deterrents like cayenne pepper, garlic, or predator urine (fox or coyote) can be sprinkled around the garden. Commercial repellents are also available.
3. Install Physical Barriers
   Use mesh netting, or row covers to protect plants. Wrap tree trunks with metal collars to prevent climbing.
4. Scare Tactics
   Motion-activated sprinklers, ultrasonic devices, or decoy predators can help keep squirrels away.
5. Encourage Natural Predators
   Attracting birds of prey like hawks or owls can help reduce squirrel populations over time.
6. Trap and Relocate (if legal)
   Live traps can be used to capture and relocate squirrels far from your garden. Check local laws before using this method.

How to Get Rid of a Squirrel From Your Home

If a squirrel has made its way into your home, stay calm and follow these steps to safely remove it:

1. Close Off Other Rooms – Contain the squirrel in one area by closing all doors leading to other parts of the house.
2. Give It an Exit – Open a window or exterior door in the room where the squirrel is trapped. Remove screens if necessary.
3. Turn Off Lights and Reduce Noise – Dim the lights and keep pets and people away. The squirrel will naturally move toward the light source and fresh air.
4. Encourage It to Leave – If it doesn’t exit on its own, gently guide it toward the opening using a broom or by placing food near the exit.
5. Use a Humane Trap – If the squirrel won’t leave, set up a live trap with bait such as peanut butter or nuts. Once caught, release it outside.
6. Prevent Future Entry – Seal any openings, including chimneys and vents, and trim tree branches near your house.

How to Remove Squirrels From a Chimney

If a squirrel is stuck in your chimney, follow these steps to remove it safely:

1. Determine If It’s Stuck or Nesting – Listen for movement. If the squirrel is trapped, it will scratch frantically. If it’s nesting, you may hear softer noises.
2. Create an Escape Route – Open the fireplace damper to allow the squirrel into your home, then open nearby windows or doors to let it exit. Close off other rooms to prevent it from running through the house.
3. Use a Rope for Climbing – If the squirrel is trapped in a smooth, deep chimney, drop a thick rope or knotted sheet down. The squirrel may climb out on its own.
4. Avoid Smoke or Loud Noises – Do not light a fire or make loud noises, as this can stress the animal and cause harm.
5. Set a Humane Trap – If the squirrel won’t leave, use a live trap with peanut butter as bait. Once captured, release it outside.
6. Prevent Future Entries – Install a chimney cap to keep squirrels and other wildlife out. Trim overhanging branches that provide access to your roof.