Squirrels in the attic may seem cute at first, but they can cause serious problems—chewing wires, damaging insulation, and making lots of noise. Removing them safely and preventing them from coming back is key.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get rid of squirrels humanely and effectively.
🛑 Why You Should Act Quickly
Squirrels can:
- Chew through wood, wiring, and insulation
- Build nests, especially during spring and autumn
- Cause fire hazards by damaging electrical cables
- Leave droppings and urine, which may lead to bad odours and health risks
✅ Step-by-Step: How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Attic
1. Locate Entry Points
Carefully inspect the outside of your home, especially:
- Roof edges, vents, chimneys, and soffits
- Gaps around pipes or bricks
- Small holes—they can squeeze through gaps as small as 2 inches
Use binoculars or a ladder (safely!) to find signs of chewing, droppings, or nesting.
2. Make the Attic Less Inviting
- Bright lights: Leave a light on in the attic day and night
- Loud noise: Play a radio or talk radio station
- Strong smells: Use natural deterrents like:
- Apple cider vinegar
- Peppermint oil
- Commercial squirrel repellents
These irritants may encourage squirrels to leave on their own.
3. Use One-Way Exclusion Doors
- Install a one-way exclusion door at the main entry point
- It allows squirrels to leave—but not get back in
- Leave it in place for several days to ensure all squirrels have exited
✅ These are available at pest control stores or online.
4. Seal Entry Points
Once you’re sure all squirrels are gone:
- Seal all holes with steel mesh, metal flashing, or heavy-duty sealant
- Cover vents and chimneys with wire mesh or cage guards
🛑 Do not seal the attic while squirrels are still inside—this could trap and kill them, causing worse problems.
5. Clean the Attic
- Remove nests, droppings, and contaminated insulation
- Wear gloves and a mask while cleaning
- Consider replacing any chewed wires or insulation
🧠 Bonus Tips
- Trim tree branches at least 8–10 feet away from your roof
- Avoid leaving bird seed, pet food, or rubbish near your home
- If you have fruit trees or gardens, clean up fallen produce regularly
🐿️ When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed pest control expert if:
- You’re unsure how to safely remove them
- There are baby squirrels (which need special handling)
- You can’t find or access the entry points
Professionals can humanely trap and relocate squirrels and help squirrel-proof your attic long-term.
Conclusion
To get rid of squirrels in your attic:
- Find how they’re getting in
- Encourage them to leave using light, sound, and scent
- Install a one-way exit
- Seal the entry points
- Clean up and prevent future visits
With a little patience and the right steps, you can reclaim your attic—safely, humanely, and for good.
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