Flying squirrels, while adorable, can become unwelcome houseguests. Their presence can lead to property damage, noise disturbances, and potential health risks. This guide provides a humane and effective approach to removing these critters from your home and preventing future infestations.
Understanding the Problem: Why are Flying Squirrels in My House?
Before tackling the removal process, it's crucial to understand why flying squirrels are invading your home. They're primarily seeking shelter, food, and a safe place to raise their young. Common entry points include:
- Gaps in siding: Check for cracks or holes in your exterior walls.
- Damaged roofing: Look for missing shingles or damaged vents.
- Unsealed chimneys: A common entry point, especially for nesting.
- Open vents: Bathroom, kitchen, and attic vents can provide easy access.
- Holes around pipes and wires: Small openings around utility lines can be exploited.
Humane Removal Strategies: Getting Flying Squirrels Out Safely
Never attempt to capture or handle flying squirrels yourself. They can bite and scratch, and improper handling can cause stress and injury. Instead, focus on these humane removal strategies:
1. Identify Entry and Exit Points:
Carefully inspect your home's exterior to pinpoint where the flying squirrels are entering and exiting. This is critical for effective exclusion.
2. Block Entry Points:
Once you've identified the entry points, seal them using appropriate materials. Consider:
- Steel wool: Stuffing steel wool into small gaps deters squirrels from chewing through.
- Caulk: Seal larger cracks and holes with high-quality caulk.
- Mesh screens: Install mesh screens over vents and other openings.
- Chimney caps: Install a chimney cap to prevent access through your chimney.
3. Encourage Departure:
Make your home less attractive to flying squirrels by:
- Removing food sources: Store pet food properly and clean up any spilled seeds or nuts.
- Eliminating water sources: Repair leaky pipes and faucets.
- Removing nesting materials: Remove any potential nesting materials like leaves, twigs, and insulation.
4. One-Way Doors:
Use commercially available one-way doors strategically placed near the identified entry points. These allow the flying squirrels to exit but prevent re-entry. Place a suitable nesting box outside to encourage them to leave.
5. Professional Wildlife Removal:
If you're unable to effectively remove the flying squirrels yourself, contact a licensed and experienced wildlife removal professional. They possess the expertise and equipment to safely and humanely remove the animals and address any structural issues contributing to the infestation. Ensure they use humane trapping methods that prioritize the squirrel's well-being.
Prevention: Keeping Flying Squirrels Away for Good
Preventing future infestations is just as important as removal. Implement these preventative measures:
- Regular Home Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your home's exterior to identify and repair any potential entry points.
- Landscaping: Trim overhanging branches and remove brush piles near your home, reducing potential access points.
- Secure Trash Cans: Use tightly sealed trash cans to prevent access to food scraps.
- Proper Storage: Store firewood away from your house to minimize potential nesting sites.
Remember: Patience is key. Removing flying squirrels may take some time. By following these steps, you can safely and humanely remove these creatures from your home and prevent future infestations, ensuring a peaceful coexistence between you and the wildlife around you.
