Squirrels frolic between trees and provide endless entertainment for pets, and of course, we would miss them if they vanished from our neighborhoods forever. However, if you have a bird feeder or a garden, you know they can also cause significant trouble in your backyard. Squirrels eat bird feed, ruin harvested vegetables, and sometimes even get trapped inside homes. Learn how to control squirrels both indoors and outdoors using humane yet effective methods.
Control Squirrels Outdoors
Step 1. Remove Food Sources for Squirrels.
Remove food sources for squirrels. You might not think of it as squirrel food, but if squirrels are overrunning your property, it's because they find plenty of things they want to eat.
- Rake up nuts, berries, and acorns that have fallen from trees in your yard. These are primary food sources for squirrels.
- Purchase tightly sealed outdoor trash cans. If squirrels can easily access your trash can, replace it with one that has a secure lid. Always keep it closed.
Step 2. Make Bird Feeders Inaccessible to Squirrels.
Make bird feeders inaccessible to squirrels. Squirrels are incredibly clever when it comes to raiding feeders. Use these methods to keep bird feed away from squirrels before the birds can find it:
- Buy squirrel-proof feeders that attach to your feeder to prevent squirrels from taking over.
- Don't place feeders close to trees or your home. Squirrels can bypass protections by jumping from branches or the eaves of your house to the feeder.
- Keep the areas under feeders clean. It can be hard, but by removing fallen seeds that birds drop, you’ll prevent squirrels from foraging near the feeders.
- Fill feeders with safflower seeds. Birds love these seeds, but squirrels find them bitter.
Step 3. Protect Your Garden with a Fence.
Protect your garden with a fence. Squirrels will dig up bulbs and pull out vegetables if you don’t take measures to safeguard your garden. Use wire fencing and make sure it’s buried underground about 12 inches, so squirrels can’t dig underneath it.
Step 4. Use Squirrel Repellents.
Use squirrel repellents. Some products are available at hardware stores and garden centers. They’re typically made from natural ingredients that deter squirrels.
- Some repellents are made from pepper or cayenne pepper that repels squirrels but doesn’t bother birds. These repellents can be added directly to the feeder.
- Some repellents are made from predator urine. They are designed to be sprayed around the garden to keep squirrels away.
Step 5. Feed the Squirrels.
Feed the squirrels. Instead of driving squirrels away, feed them so they'll stay away from your feeder and garden. Scatter squirrel food around your yard or buy a feeder and place it far from the bird feeder and garden.
Step 6. Try Motion-Activated Sprinklers.
Try using motion-activated sprinklers. They will spray squirrels when they get too close, with the added benefit of watering your lawn.
Control Squirrels Indoors
Step 1. Ensure No Food is on the Attic.
Ensure no food is in the attic. If squirrels repeatedly make their way into your attic, they might be attracted by smells. Clean out the attic and ensure there’s nothing appetizing for squirrels.
Step 2. Trim Branches Hanging Close to the Roof and Chimney.
Trim branches that hang close to the roof and chimney. Squirrels can jump right from branches onto the roof.
Step 3. Install a Chimney Cap.
Install a chimney cap. If squirrels and other animals frequently invade your home, consider installing an animal-proof cap on the chimney. They are often made of stainless steel mesh, so you won’t have to remove them when using the fireplace.
Step 4. Provide an Escape Route.
Provide an escape route. If a squirrel does make it into the chimney or attic, ensure it can get out. Hang a rope down the flue so it can climb back up to the roof. Open an attic window and lure it out with food.
Step 5. Buy a Live Trap.
Buy a live trap. Stores sell traps specifically designed to catch squirrels without harming them. Set it in the attic, and when the squirrel is caught, take the trap outside and release the squirrel.
Step 6. Call Animal Control.
Call animal control. You may not want to deal with getting rid of squirrels in the attic and chimney yourself. Call animal control to come and trap the squirrel for you.
