Squirrels are fascinating creatures. Did you know they can find their buried food even under a foot of snow? As cute as they are, squirrels can wreak havoc on your garden and home. Their constant gnawing and digging can damage plants, wiring, and structures. If you are wondering how to squirrel-proof your garden and home, World Class Wildlife is here to give you effective tips and ideas.

Physical Barriers: Building a Squirrel Fortress

One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels out is by creating physical barriers. These structures act as a deterrent, making it difficult for squirrels to access your garden and home.

Install Fencing: Use a tall, sturdy fence around your garden. Make sure it’s buried at least 6 inches underground to prevent burrowing.
Mesh Covers: Place wire mesh covers over vulnerable plants and flower beds. This prevents squirrels from digging up bulbs and seeds.
Tree Trunk Guards: Wrap tree trunks with metal guards to stop squirrels from climbing up and jumping onto your roof.
Chimney Caps: Secure your chimney with a cap to prevent squirrels from entering your home through the chimney.

These barriers are not only effective but also blend well with your garden and home’s aesthetics.

Plant Selection: Choosing Squirrel-Resistant Plants

Picking the right plants can significantly help in your efforts on how to squirrel proof your garden. Squirrels are less likely to invade areas with plants they dislike or find unappetizing.

Daffodils: These beautiful flowers are toxic to squirrels and will deter them from your garden.
Alliums: Known for their strong smell, alliums are another plant that squirrels tend to avoid.
Fritillaries: With a scent that squirrels find unpleasant, fritillaries are part of the lily family and can help keep these critters at bay.
Galanthus: Also known as snowdrops, these plants are both attractive and effective in repelling squirrels.

Planting these species can create a natural barrier, making your garden less appealing to squirrels. Mixing these plants with others can enhance your garden’s beauty while keeping it safe from squirrels.

Create an Unwelcome Environment with Scent Deterrents

Using scent deterrents can be a simple and effective strategy. That’s because certain smells are highly unpleasant to squirrels and can keep them away from your property.

Peppermint Oil: Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around your garden and entry points to your home. Be careful using peppermint oil around pets, as it can be toxic.
Vinegar: Spray a mixture of vinegar and water around your plants and garden beds.
Garlic and Onion: Crush garlic and onion, then mix with water. Spray this solution in areas frequented by squirrels.
Predator Urine: Purchase predator urine, such as fox or coyote, from a garden store and sprinkle it around your property.

These scents act as natural repellents, making your garden and home less attractive to squirrels. Regular application ensures continued effectiveness.

Traps and Repellents: Advanced Squirrel Control

When physical barriers and scents aren’t enough, traps and repellents offer more advanced solutions. You can trap or deter squirrels in the following ways:

Live Traps: Set humane traps to catch and release squirrels far from your property.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Install these sprinklers to startle and scare away squirrels with sudden bursts of water.
Ultrasonic Repellents: Use devices that emit high-frequency sounds to deter squirrels without harming them.
Repellent Sprays: Apply commercial squirrel repellent sprays to plants, garden beds, and entry points around your home.

Before you resort to trapping, it’s best to contact us at World Class Wildlife. We can help you determine safe and ethical ways to trap squirrels. Certain types of traps are not allowed for trapping squirrels in Florida.

Securing Food Sources: Removing Temptations

Squirrels are always on the lookout for food, and securing potential food sources is a must for squirrel-proofing your garden and home. Making food less accessible can deter squirrels from lingering around your property.

Bird Feeders: Choose squirrel-proof bird feeders and place them away from trees or structures that squirrels can use to jump onto the feeders.
Pet Food: Keep pet food indoors or in sealed containers when outside.
Compost Bins: Ensure compost bins are securely closed and use animal-proof containers to prevent squirrels from digging in them.
Garbage Cans: Use bins with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving garbage bags outside overnight.

Removing easy access to food sources makes your property less attractive to squirrels.

Home Maintenance: Sealing Entry Points

Preventing squirrels from entering your home involves thorough maintenance and sealing of potential entry points. This step is vital for keeping your home safe from these persistent invaders.

Roof and Eaves: Inspect and repair any gaps or holes in your roof and eaves. Squirrels can squeeze through small openings.
Attic Vents: Cover attic vents with wire mesh to block entry while allowing proper ventilation.
Chimneys: Ensure chimneys have caps securely in place to prevent squirrels from entering.
Foundation Cracks: Seal any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation to stop squirrels from getting inside.

Are there Benefits to Having Squirrels in Your Garden?

While squirrels can be a nuisance, they also bring some surprising benefits to your garden. Understanding these benefits can help you appreciate these creatures while managing their presence.

Seed Dispersal: Squirrels bury nuts and seeds, inadvertently planting new trees and plants. This natural process contributes to forest growth and biodiversity.
Soil Aeration: Digging and burying activities help aerate the soil, which can improve soil health and promote plant growth.
Pest Control: Squirrels eat insects and small pests, helping to keep the population of these garden intruders in check.
Wildlife Diversity: Having squirrels around can attract other wildlife to your garden, enhancing its ecological diversity.

Professional Squirrel Pest Control: World Class Wildlife Removal

When DIY methods aren’t enough, professional squirrel pest control can provide the expertise and resources needed to protect your home and garden. World Class Wildlife Removal offers top-notch services to handle your squirrel problems effectively.

We are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured. As a third-generation company with over 30 years of experience, we specialize in squirrel removal, control, and trapping. Call us now if you need help with squirrel-proofing your home and garden.