Squirrels are a common sight in Toronto, especially during the fall and winter months when they are busy gathering food for the winter. While these little critters may seem cute and harmless, they can quickly become a nuisance when they start invading your home or property. Squirrel removal in Toronto can be a challenging task, and it’s important to understand the challenges you may face and the solutions available to you.
Challenges of Squirrel Removal in Toronto
Finding the Nest: Squirrels are known for building their nests in trees, attics, and other hard-to-reach places. Finding the nest can be a challenge, especially if it’s hidden in a tight space. Once you’ve located the nest, you’ll need to determine the best way to remove the squirrels without harming them.
Safety: Squirrels are wild animals and can become aggressive when threatened. Attempting to remove squirrels on your own can be dangerous, especially if you don’t have the right tools or experience. Squirrels can bite, scratch, or even carry diseases that can be harmful to humans and pets.
Damage: Squirrels can cause significant damage to your property, including chewing through wires, insulation, and other materials. This can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
Health Risks: Squirrels can carry diseases and parasites that can be harmful to humans and pets. It’s important to handle squirrels carefully to avoid the risk of infection.
Solutions for Squirrel Removal in Toronto
Identify Entry Points: The first step in squirrel removal is identifying the entry points. Once you know where the squirrels are coming from, you can block off those areas to prevent them from entering your property. This can include sealing off any gaps or openings around your roof, attic, and walls.
Use Humane Traps: Humane traps are an effective way to capture squirrels without harming them. Once captured, you can release them into the wild, far from your property. It’s important to follow local regulations and guidelines when using humane traps, and to handle squirrels carefully to avoid any harm.
Hire a Professional: If you’re not comfortable handling squirrels on your own, it’s best to hire a professional. They have the tools and experience needed to remove squirrels safely and efficiently. A professional can also help you identify any potential entry points and provide advice on how to prevent future squirrel problems.
Install Barriers: Installing barriers like mesh wire or fences around your property can also help prevent squirrels from entering. This can be especially useful for areas like gardens or bird feeders where squirrels may be attracted to food sources.
Keep Your Property Clean: Squirrels are attracted to food sources like bird feeders and garbage cans. Keeping your property clean and free of food sources can discourage squirrels from coming near. This includes properly disposing of any food waste and securing bird feeders or pet food containers.
Prevention Tips
While it’s important to know how to remove squirrels, prevention is always the best approach. Here are some prevention tips to keep in mind:
Trim Trees and Bushes: Squirrels use trees and bushes as a way to climb onto your roof and access your home. Keeping them trimmed can prevent squirrels from getting close to your house.
Remove Food Sources: Squirrels are attracted to bird feeders, pet food, and garbage cans. Make sure to keep these items secure and clean up any spills or debris in your yard.
Install Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders: If you want to keep feeding birds, install squirrel-proof bird feeders that prevent squirrels from accessing the food.
Use Deterrents: There are various squirrel deterrents on the market, such as ultrasonic devices or sprays that emit an unpleasant smell to keep squirrels away.