The Ultimate Guide to Grey Squirrel Control

Grey squirrels are a common sight in many regions, but their presence often leads to significant challenges for property owners. Knowing the best way to control squirrels is essential for homeowners, as they can cause extensive property damage, pose health risks, and disrupt local ecosystems. From chewing through electrical wiring to displacing native wildlife, their activities can lead to costly repairs and ecological imbalance.

This guide is designed to help homeowners, property managers, and farmers tackle grey squirrel problems effectively—whether through prevention, trapping, or other squirrel control methods.

Understanding Grey Squirrels: The Problem

Grey squirrels, specifically the Eastern grey squirrel species, are highly adaptable rodents found across North America and Europe. Known for their bushy tails and agile movements, squirrels thrive in urban, suburban, and rural environments. Their diet includes seeds, nuts, fruits, insects, and even bird eggs, making them opportunistic feeders that compete with other wildlife for resources. They’re also often found seeking food sources at bird feeders.

However, their adaptability comes at a cost—Grey squirrels are considered invasive in regions like Europe, where they outcompete native species such as red squirrels for food and nesting sites. Their bark-stripping behavior damages trees, while their predation on bird eggs disrupts local ecosystems.

Grey squirrels build nests called dreys in tree branches or cavities, and sometimes invade attics or crawl spaces. They are active year-round and reproduce rapidly, leading to growing populations that exacerbate their impact.

Common Problems Caused by Grey Squirrels

Grey squirrels can cause significant issues for property owners and farmers:

• Structural Damage: Their gnawing habits can damage roofs, siding, insulation, and electrical wiring, creating fire hazards and costly repairs.
• Food and Garden Damage: Squirrels raid gardens, bird feeders, and crops, consuming fruits, vegetables, and seeds.
• Health Risks: Grey squirrels carry diseases, such as Lyme disease and squirrel pox. They also host parasites like fleas and ticks.

Legal Considerations for Grey Squirrel Control

Understanding laws surrounding grey squirrel control is crucial for implementing effective management strategies. Laws and regulations vary by region, but aim to balance wildlife protection with pest control.

Laws and Regulations

In the United States, federal, state, and local wildlife regulations govern grey squirrel control. These laws are designed to balance pest management with ethical wildlife practices:

• Wildlife Protection Laws: Many states allow trapping nuisance wildlife, including grey squirrels, if they pose a threat to property or public safety. However, regulations vary widely.
• Permits for Trapping and Relocation: In some states, relocating live squirrels requires specific permits and strict guidelines. For instance, relocating squirrels across county lines or major river drainages is prohibited in certain regions.
• Ethical Considerations and Humane Methods: Humane squirrel control methods are emphasized nationwide. Traps must be checked regularly (often within 24 hours), and captured squirrels must be euthanized humanely or released unharmed where permitted. Using live traps is a common humane option. The best way to control squirrels is to consider humane options first.

Property owners should consult their state’s wildlife agency for up-to-date regulations and guidelines before undertaking squirrel control measures. Following these laws ensures compliance while promoting ethical pest management practices.

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Squirrel Control Methods: Effective Strategies

Lethal Control Methods (if applicable and legal)

Lethal control is typically considered when grey squirrels pose significant risks to property or human health, such as extensive damage or disease transmission. It’s important to strictly adhere to local wildlife regulations when employing lethal control methods.

Automatic or other lethal traps may be used in compliance with state laws. These traps should be strategically placed in areas of high squirrel activity and checked regularly. Learning how to properly set a squirrel trap is crucial for effective trapping. Always ensure that legal guidelines use humane euthanasia methods.

Automatic Squirrel Traps: The Modern Solution

What Are Automatic Squirrel Traps?

Automatic squirrel traps, such as the Goodnature A18, represent a significant advancement in squirrel control technology. These traps are designed to operate continuously, without frequent manual intervention.

Powered by CO2 canisters, the A18 trap resets itself after each use, allowing it to dispatch multiple squirrels—up to 18 per canister—before requiring maintenance. Automatic traps are an efficient and hands-off solution for managing squirrel problems.

One of the key benefits of automatic traps is their design. The A18, for example, uses a mechanical system that delivers a quick and effective strike that minimizes suffering. Additionally, these traps often feature customizable lure baskets, allowing users to select the most effective bait for their specific environment.

Combined with toxin-free operation, automatic traps are safe for pets and other non-target animals, making them ideal for residential and commercial use alike.

Why Automatic Traps Are the Best Choice

Automatic squirrel traps offer several advantages over traditional trapping methods, making them a preferred choice for property owners dealing with persistent squirrel infestations:

• Unlike some manual traps, automatic traps like the A18 are certified humane and designed to eliminate squirrels quickly and effectively.
• Although the initial investment in an automatic trap may be higher than traditional traps, their long-lasting design and ability to self-reset reduce long-term costs associated with frequent trap replacement or maintenance.
• Once set, automatic traps operate continuously, providing round-the-clock protection against squirrels.
• With features like self-resetting mechanisms and digital strike counters (as seen in the A18), these traps simplify the monitoring process.

By combining humane practices with modern solutions, automatic squirrel traps provide a practical and eco-friendly solution for managing grey squirrel populations. Whether used in residential areas, farms, or industrial sites, these devices save time and effort while delivering reliable results.

Recommended Automatic Trap Product: A18

Image Source: Automatictrap.com

Introducing the A18

The A18 is an innovative automatic trap designed specifically for controlling grey squirrels and other large rodents. This unique device, developed by Goodnature, offers a humane and efficient solution for managing squirrel populations. The A18 stands out for its ability to automatically reset after each use, allowing it to dispatch multiple squirrels without constant manual intervention.

Key features of the A18 include:

• Automatic resetting mechanism powered by CO2 canisters.
• DIY lure basket system for customized bait solutions.
• Certified humane trapping design.
• Toxin-free operation, ensuring safety for pets and non-target animals.

Why the A18 is Ideal for Grey Squirrel Control

The A18 simplifies squirrel pest control through its efficient, automated operation. Once set, it provides constant protection against squirrels, eliminating daily trap checks or manual resets. The trap's humane design is a crucial benefit. It delivers a quick and effective strike that minimizes animal suffering and ensures ethical pest management.

The A-18 offers several features that free up time for the user:

• Continuous operation of up to 18 strikes per CO2 canister.
• Reduced need for frequent maintenance or trap replacement.
• Digital strike counter for easy monitoring without physical inspection.

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The A18 in Action

Setting up and using the A18 is straightforward:

• Choose a location with known squirrel activity, ideally 1.5 meters or higher on a tree or fence post.
• Install the trap vertically for optimal performance.
• Fill the DIY lure basket with an attractive bait for squirrels.
• Arm the trap using the CO2 canister.
• Achieve continuous protection with automatic resets after each strike.

The A18 is ideal for various settings, including woodland areas, gardens, and commercial properties experiencing squirrel problems. Its versatility makes it suitable for year-round use.

The A18 Squirrel Trap Kit comes with everything needed for effective squirrel management, including the trap, CO2 canisters, and a digital strike counter. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance while operating in outdoor elements.

To purchase the A18, visit authorized retailers or the official Goodnature website. The trap is available in the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom, with shipping options to various locations.

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DIY Squirrel Control vs Professional Help

When dealing with squirrel problems, homeowners often decide whether to handle the issue themselves or seek professional assistance. Both approaches have their merits, and knowing the best way to control squirrels depends on various factors.

When to Go DIY

DIY squirrel control can be appropriate in certain situations. For instance, DIY methods might be sufficient if you're dealing with a small infestation, and the squirrels are in easily accessible areas.

Basic prevention techniques, such as trimming tree branches or using repellents, are also effective for small-scale problems. However, DIY approaches often require weeks or months of trial and error, while professional services typically resolve squirrel problems more quickly.

When to Hire a Professional

Professional help is recommended in scenarios involving larger infestations, unsafe conditions, or complicated situations. For example, if squirrels are in hard-to-reach or dangerous areas like high roofs or electrical systems, it's best to hire a professional.

Wildlife control experts bring several advantages to squirrel removal, including expertise in identifying entry points, implementing effective long-term solutions, and ensuring safety for both humans and animals.

Squirrel Control Best Practices: Ongoing Maintenance

Long-Term Solutions

Maintaining a squirrel-free property requires consistent effort and attention. Regular checks are essential to ensure squirrels haven’t found new entry points or nesting areas. Inspect your home seasonally for gaps around roofs, vents, chimneys, and crawl spaces, as these are common access points. Using durable materials like metal flashing or hardware cloth to seal openings can prevent squirrels from chewing their way back in.

Ongoing preventive measures also include keeping trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce pathways for squirrels to access roofs or attics. Installing squirrel-proof barriers, such as chimney caps, vent covers, and attic screens, adds an extra layer of protection.

Chemical or natural deterrents like cayenne pepper spray can be applied around areas prone to squirrel activity. Additionally, removing food sources by securing trash bins, removing fallen fruits, and using squirrel-proof bird feeders is also crucial to prevent squirrel infestations.

Seasonal Tips

Grey squirrel behavior changes with the seasons, requiring adjustments to control measures throughout the year. In the fall, squirrels become more active as they prepare for winter by gathering food and seeking shelter. This is an ideal time to inspect your property for vulnerabilities and implement squirrel-proofing measures like sealing entry points and installing barriers.

Spring and summer are also critical periods for trapping and prevention, as squirrels are highly active during their breeding seasons. Trimming branches and maintaining outdoor spaces can help minimize nesting opportunities. Regularly checking for signs of squirrel activity, such as droppings or gnawed wood, ensures that any issues are addressed promptly.

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FAQs about Grey Squirrel Control

How long does it take to get rid of grey squirrels?

The duration of control depends on the infestation size and methods used. Small infestations can be resolved in a few days with traps or repellents, while larger ones may take weeks. Regular monitoring of squirrel activity ensures lasting results.

How do I know if my traps are working?

Traps are effective if squirrel activity decreases or captures occur. Check bait consumption and use traps with strike counters for easy tracking. Adjust placement or bait as needed.

What does squirrel damage look like?

Squirrel damage includes stripped bark on trees, chewed insulation, gnawed wiring, and droppings. They may also raid gardens or bird feeders, and leave nests in hidden areas.

Are squirrels harmful to humans?

Grey squirrels can carry diseases like leptospirosis and squirrel pox, as well as fleas and ticks that spread illnesses. Squirrels also create fire hazards when they chew on wiring.

Achieving Effective Grey Squirrel Control

Grey squirrel infestations can cause significant damage to property, health, and local ecosystems, making effective control essential. From prevention techniques to humane trapping solutions like the A18 automatic trap, there are practical strategies that can be used to address squirrel problems efficiently.

By implementing ongoing maintenance practices and adapting your approach to seasonal changes in squirrel pest control, you can ensure long-term protection for your property. Whether you choose DIY methods or professional assistance, the key is to act promptly and strategically.

Explore our range of automatic traps, including the innovative A18, to simplify your squirrel control efforts. With humane and efficient features, these tools are designed to save time while delivering reliable results. Take control of your property today and contact us!