Tips for Getting Rid of Squirrels

When we think of bothersome rodents, squirrels aren’t typically what comes to mind. However, if you’ve ever had plants uprooted in your garden by these rodents, or discovered a nest of squirrels in your attic, you know that squirrels can be pests. 

Unfortunately, getting rid of squirrels is a task that’s easier said than done. Because they are literally everywhere, it’s difficult to deter them from inhabiting your yard, garden and home. Thankfully, we’ve come up with some tips to help you do that very thing! 

Make Their Food Source Less Accessible

If you have squirrels in your yard, it’s probably because they’re having no trouble finding food there. In some cases, the food source will be obvious: Your bird feeders and garden are easy pickings for a hungry squirrel. 

Of course, you might not want to uproot your garden or drive away daily visitors to your birdfeeder, so you have to at least make each harder for squirrels to access. Try installing a squirrel baffle on your birdfeeder or purchase a feeder specifically designed to guard against squirrels. Some are weight-activated, while others come with a cage that squirrels are unable to squeeze through. 

Plant Strategically

A number of plants and flowers have been shown to act as natural squirrel repellents due to their scent. Geraniums are one example, but you can also plant daffodils, peppermint and hyacinth (among others) in strategic places around your yard. A garden full of geraniums or daffodils is a garden no squirrel wants to go near.  

Use Chemicals

A number of products on the market help keep squirrels away. Most of them use a chemical known as capsaicin. If that sounds familiar, that’s because it’s the same chemical found in jalapenos and other spicy food. As you’ve probably guessed, you can also create a DIY hot pepper spray using chopped jalapeno peppers and pepper flakes. The spice bothers squirrels’ senses, sending them in the opposite direction. 

Bring in the Pros 

If you haven’t had much luck keeping your yard, garden and home squirrel-free, it might be time to consult the experts. At Action Pest and Turf, our team of highly skilled and knowledgeable pest control technicians will put our expertise to work and rid your property of troublesome rodents or any other pest. Contact us at Action Pest and Turf today.