Squirrels may look cute with their bushy tails and curious eyes, but anyone who has dealt with them knows that they can be much more than just harmless backyard visitors.
These nimble rodents can cause significant damage to homes, gardens, and even vehicles. But beyond their notorious reputation, there are many myths surrounding squirrels that need to be busted.
In this article, we’ll dive into some common misconceptions and reveal the truth about these furry foes, while also providing effective tips on how to get rid of squirrels.
Myth 1: Squirrels Hibernate Through the Winter
Many people believe that squirrels, like bears, hibernate through the winter. However, this is far from the truth. Squirrels do not hibernate; instead, they remain active throughout the colder months.
They prepare for winter by gathering and storing food, which they rely on during times when food is scarce. If you’re noticing an uptick in squirrel activity around your home as winter approaches, it’s because they are busy preparing their winter stash—not getting ready for a long sleep.
Our Tip: If you’re dealing with squirrels raiding your attic or storage areas, now is the time to consider effective squirrel control methods. Using advanced squirrel repellers can keep them out of your space without causing harm.
Myth 2: Squirrels Only Eat Nuts
It’s a common image: a squirrel clutching a nut in its tiny paws. While it’s true that squirrels enjoy nuts, their diet is far more varied. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders, meaning they eat a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, and even bird eggs.
This diet diversity is one of the reasons why they can become a nuisance in gardens, often eating produce that you’ve worked hard to grow.
Our Tip: If you’re wondering how to get rid of squirrels in your garden, consider using environmentally friendly repellents that target their sense of smell and taste to discourage them from feasting on your plants.
Myth 3: Squirrels Are Harmless to Your Property
Though they might seem small and insignificant, squirrels can cause significant damage to your property. They have strong teeth that can chew through wood, electrical wires, and even metal.
This behavior can lead to serious issues, such as power outages, structural damage, and fire hazards. Squirrels are particularly notorious for nesting in attics, where they can chew through insulation and wiring.
Our Tip: To protect your home, it’s essential to implement effective squirrel control measures. Sealing entry points and using squirrel repellers can prevent these pests from making your home their own.
Myth 4: Squirrels Are Solitary Animals
While squirrels are often seen alone, they are not entirely solitary creatures. They communicate with each other through various vocalizations and tail movements.
During the mating season and when raising their young, squirrels can be quite social. Understanding this social behavior can help in creating more effective strategies for controlling squirrel populations.
Our Tip: If you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation, consider installing motion-activated squirrel repellers that can disrupt their social activities and discourage them from settling in your area.
Myth 5: All Squirrels Are the Same
There are over 200 species of squirrels worldwide, and they come in various shapes and sizes. The most common types encountered in North America are the gray squirrel, red squirrel, and fox squirrel. Each species has its unique behaviors and preferences, which can affect how they interact with your environment.
Our Tip: Tailor your squirrel control approach based on the type of squirrels you’re dealing with. Some repellents may be more effective on certain species, so it’s important to choose products designed to target the specific squirrels in your area.
How to Get Rid of Squirrels: Effective Strategies
Now that we’ve debunked some common squirrel myths, let’s focus on the best ways to keep these furry foes at bay.
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any holes or gaps that squirrels could use to enter. Use materials like steel mesh to block these openings.
Install Squirrel Repellers: There are various types of squirrel repellers available, including ultrasonic devices and motion-activated sprinklers, which can be highly effective in deterring squirrels.
Remove Food Sources: Ensure that your garden and outdoor areas are free of food that could attract squirrels. This includes securing trash cans and removing bird feeders.
Use Natural Repellents: Consider using natural, non-toxic repellents that deter squirrels with smells they dislike, such as peppermint or garlic.
Conclusion
Squirrels may be cute, but they can also be quite the adversary when it comes to protecting your home and garden. By understanding the truth behind these common myths and implementing effective squirrel control strategies, you can keep these furry foes at bay. Remember, a proactive approach is always the best way to get rid of squirrels and protect your property.
For more advanced solutions and products designed to help you manage squirrel problems, visit our store and check our range of effective and humane squirrel repellers and other tools to help you take back control of your space.