Unraveling the Mysteries of Squirrel Behavior: The Case for Professional Removal
Squirrels, with their bushy tails and nimble antics, are a common sight in urban and suburban landscapes. While these furry creatures may seem harmless, their behavior and habits can pose challenges for homeowners. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of squirrel behavior and explore the pros and cons of DIY versus professional squirrel removal.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior: Squirrels, belonging to the Sciuridae family, are renowned for their acrobatic prowess and boundless energy. They are arboreal creatures, spending much of their time in trees, where they forage for food and build nests. Squirrels are omnivores, with a diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. Their natural curiosity and agility make them adept at exploring and exploiting human habitats for food and shelter.
Disease: Though squirrels are very unlikely to have rabies, this is a common concern when it comes to wildlife. Dealing with wildlife can be tricky, especially when it's unknown whether or not the animal has any diseases. According to the CDC, "small rodents (like squirrels, hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, chipmunks, rats, and mice) and lagomorphs (including rabbits and hares) are almost never found to be infected with rabies and have not been known to transmit rabies to humans." It is safe to say, that exclusion of wildlife is best left to the professionals.
Nesting Habits: Squirrels are resourceful nest builders, constructing elaborate structures called dreys in trees or utilizing attic spaces and eaves for shelter. During the breeding season, female squirrels seek out secure nesting sites to raise their young, often causing damage to property in the process. Attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces provide ideal environments for squirrels to nest, leading to potential structural damage and health hazards for homeowners.
DIY Squirrel Removal: Many homeowners may be tempted to tackle squirrel removal on their own, employing traps, repellents, or exclusion methods to deter or capture pests. While DIY methods may offer temporary relief, they often fall short of providing a permanent solution to squirrel infestations. Inexperienced individuals may inadvertently harm themselves or the squirrels, exacerbating the problem and prolonging the nuisance.
The Case for Professional Removal: Professional squirrel removal services offer expertise, experience, and specialized techniques to effectively address squirrel infestations. Trained technicians conduct thorough inspections to identify entry points, nesting sites, and conducive conditions for squirrels. They employ humane trapping methods, exclusion techniques, and habitat modifications to safely and permanently remove squirrels from homes while preventing future infestations.
Benefits of Professional Removal:
- Expertise: Professional technicians possess specialized knowledge of squirrel behavior and biology, allowing them to develop tailored removal strategies.
- Safety: Professional removal services prioritize the safety of homeowners, pets, and wildlife, minimizing risks associated with DIY methods.
- Long-Term Solutions: By addressing underlying factors contributing to squirrel infestations, professional removal services offer lasting solutions that protect homes from future intrusions.
- Peace of Mind: Homeowners can rest assured knowing that trained professionals are handling their squirrel infestation with care and precision, alleviating stress and frustration.
While squirrels may appear cute and harmless, their presence in and around homes can lead to significant property damage and health concerns. Understanding squirrel behavior and the limitations of DIY removal methods underscores the importance of seeking professional assistance. By entrusting squirrel removal to experienced professionals, homeowners can achieve peace of mind knowing that their homes are protected from these persistent pests. Learn more about wildlife here!