Squirrels stay active through winter, making them a year-round nuisance.
Squirrels can seem cute and sweet when you see one scamper across the yard. However, anyone who has been unlucky enough to find a squirrel in their attic will definitely tell you what a major problem they can become.
Where Do Squirrels Live?
The easy answer is: everywhere around here! Virginia has five species (and a whole bunch of subspecies) of squirrels across the state and most live in all regions. The species include red, gray, fox, southern flying, and northern flying. The species share the "typical" squirrel look of long, bushy tail on a slender body, with big eyes, but the color and size will vary slightly.
Squirrels are one of the most common nuisance animals in Virginia. They are everywhere and are very adept at overcoming obstacles and adapting to environments in order to find food.
What Dangers Do Squirrels Pose?
While it's rare for a squirrel to attack a person, they will absolutely wreck havoc on your attic and your yard.
Attics and inside spaces: Damage insulation; chew through or damage wiring; ruin stored items; chew through vents and other weak spots; gnaw on wood and other home-building materials causing weakened structures; damage rooflines, shingles and eaves
Gardens and yards: Strip bark from trees, weakening or killing them; dig up flowers and bulbs; eat plants from garden; dig up roots of established plants
Other: Ruin bird feeders; bother pets; leave droppings and damage
How Can I Prevent Squirrel Problems?
First and foremost, reduce or eliminate food sources. If you're having squirrels problems, bird feeders are not for you. Covering gardens and plants with netting and staking chicken wire around them to prevent digging can help deter them. Keep in mind, squirrels are good at finding ways around your efforts.
Make sure that tree branches are cut back from your roof, especially near any attic vents or entry points. Check regularly for evidence of squirrels and take immediate action if necessary.
Using rodent stations or traps can help curb the issues. In cases of extreme infestations, you should contact wildlife removal experts who can trap the squirrels and get them off the property.
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For more information on pests in Virginia, check out our pest library
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