Are You Having A Hard Time With Squirrels In Western Massachusetts

January 10, 2023

In: Squirrels

No one would be surprised if they saw squirrels running around a park or an open outdoor space. They might not even be shocked to spot a few in their private yard. These animals are very commonplace. Unfortunately, this leads property owners to be passive about managing them. Most believe squirrels are harmless, but they can be a real problem. In many cases, only professional pest control in Western Massachusetts can tackle them.

Squirrels are one of the many rodents in Massachusetts. Just like mice and rats, they can threaten structures and human health. Learn more about these creatures and what it takes to deter them. We’ll be happy to assist you at American Pest Solutions. Our squirrel control methods are top-notch. 

The Types Of Squirrels That Hang Around Yards

Gray and red squirrels are two dominant species in the state. Adult gray squirrels are about 15 to 20 inches long. Their fluffy tails alone can be up to nine inches. Some parts of their body have white coloring, including the chin, throat, and stomach. Red squirrels are 10 ½ to 15 inches, with yellow-tinged tails that are 3 ½ to 6 inches. Their abdomens are also white. Weight-wise, squirrels are around two pounds. Their features include round eyes, small ears, projected heads, and thick fur. They scuttle about on four legs.

Being able to get to trees is important for squirrels, so they mainly live in woody locations. Lakes, meadows, and other watery zones are attractive to these critters too. If your residence or establishment is in the vicinity of such a place, put extra effort into monitoring your lawn. Squirrels are eager to eat the following:

• Bird eggs
• Corn
• Bugs, reptiles, and small animals
• Nuts
• Fungi
• Acorns
• Fruit
• Berries
• Seeds

During the day, squirrels will hustle to form their tree nests and conceal their food. Typical materials they use are bark, leaves, organic debris, and similar. When it’s time to overwinter, they might settle in your shed, chimney, garage, or attic. Their oral habits are one reason they are classified as rodents. To keep their mounting teeth down, they’ll nibble on a variety of things, like insulation, foundations, utilities, siding, and wires. Squirrels have a reputation for ruining or toppling trash cans and bird feeders while searching for edible matter. 

The Diseases Squirrels Are Capable Of Spreading 

Squirrels have bacterial cells in their hair. Not to mention they could have fleas or ticks in their coats. If you have any sort of direct contact with these animals, you could become ill. The chances of contracting a disease are even greater if they bite you. Conditions squirrels are linked to include ringworm, tularemia, and typhus. Pets can be vulnerable as well. 

Effective Squirrel Prevention Tips

Use these tips to prevent squirrels: 

• Patch up holes in foundations.
• Put caps on chimneys and screens on outside vents.
• Have damaged shingles and siding repaired immediately.
• Cut overhanging tree branches away from the property.
• Install wire or mesh fencing around the lawn, particularly gardens.
• Trim the grass and snip greenery regularly.
• Distance compost bins, plants, and wood from the property.
• Take down bird baths and feeders.
• Use secure canisters for food and garbage. 

Massachusetts rodents like squirrels are less likely to be on your land if you complete these tasks.

The Safest Way To Keep Squirrels Away 

Commercial traps, pesticides, and other control products for squirrels are not only expensive, but they’re also dangerous. People misunderstand their complicated instructions a lot. Injury and chemical exposure are possible results. It’s safer to contact American Pest Solutions. We have quality baits, exclusion tools, sanitation equipment, and more. Call for a free evaluation to get rid of rodents today!