Squirrels are obviously cute. However, do not be deceived. They can do a lot of damage to your house or yard if left to their own devices.
Squirrels are obviously a nuisance in Oregon. In fact they are one of the most common wild animals in North America. However,
they are particularly abundant in the heavily forested areas of Oregon and Washington. Therefore, if your house has an infestation you will want to take steps to get rid of them as quickly as possible.
Why squirrels are a nuisance
These animals are obviously cute. However, do not be deceived. They can do a lot of damage to your house or yard if left to their own devices.
They can often times destroy your garden by eating all the fruits and vegetables you planted, as well as digging up the flower beds. They also chew on the outside lawn furniture.
However, they can also cause damage inside the house as well. This is because they often get in through the attic, and then make nests. They are not only noisy, but in many instances will rip the insulation and chew the electrical wiring. Therefore, you are risking a fire by allowing them to stay. How to get rid of them:
Try trapping
One option is trapping. There are basically two kinds of traps, single and multiple traps. The single traps are only able to get one squirrel at a time, and are generally only effective if you have one or two squirrels doing all the damage.
The multiple, exclusion door traps are very effective. This is especially true if you know the area where the squirrels are getting in and out. All you do is put the door outside the hole. This allows them to get outside, but not inside the house.
Consider hiring an exterminator
These companies are very effective for removing the squirrels. They can generally get the job done more quickly and effectively than you could yourself. Sure, it might be expensive upfront, but long term it is worth every penny. Using a professional could actually save you money down the road, instead of trying strategies that do not work yourself.
Avoid sprays or repellants
Do not use sprays or repellents. These simply do not work, and you will just waste money. They are often very expensive, and some people waste a lot of money on them before moving on to a more effective strategy.
Avoid owl statues
By the same token, avoid the ever popular owl statues. They might work temporarily, but eventually the squirrels will figure out the statue is not real.
