Squirrels are persistent, dexterous and deceptively clever; it’s no wonder they’re one of the wildlife species that most commonly infests homes in the Raleigh area. Between being excellent climbers and jumpers, and being able to squeeze through a hole just an inch and a half in circumference, squirrels will have no trouble infiltrating the average home.
Within your attic and walls, squirrels well gnaw apart insulation and wiring, they’ll scatter urine trails and piles of droppings, and they may even spread parasites or disease. Fortunately, there are some basic measures you can take to make your home in Raleigh more squirrel-proof.
How to Prevent Squirrel Infestations in Your Raleigh Home
- Block Off Entry Points – Since squirrels can squeeze their way in through such small holes, it’s important to give the exterior of your Raleigh home a thorough inspection. If you see damage to your siding, soffits or roof, you have reason for concern that squirrels will be able to access your home interior. Use a durable sealant to close off any holes in your home perimeter and repair damaged roof shingles to prevent squirrel intrusion.
- Trim Tall Trees – Every squirrel is a natural-born acrobat. Scaling a towering tree and then leaping to the roof of your house in Raleigh is easy for them. While squirrels can certainly find other ways into your home, many of them get onto your roof and, then, into your attic via trees on your property. If you have trees growing next to your house that reach up to the roof, it would be wise to trim back the branches so that squirrels cannot use them as a bridge to your roof.
- Keep Bird Food Away – Feeding backyard birds is a hobby for many homeowners in Raleigh but, unfortunately, squirrels will inevitably be drawn to your property by the promise of a free meal. Don’t worry, you don’t have to stop feeding wild birds altogether; just try to keep feeders off of your deck and away from your home. The closer in proximity bird feeders are to a house, the more likely squirrels are to move in for convenient access to food.
Have a Squirrel Problem? Let Us Solve It!
Unfortunately, squirrel prevention methods aren’t perfect. If squirrels find their way into your home, you’ll need a professional wildlife removal company to get them out. Contact Southern Wildlife and Land Management today for the most reliable squirrel removal services in the Raleigh area!