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Spring’s Spirited Visitor: The Red Squirrel

With spring in full swing, many of us are witnessing the increased hustle and bustle of wildlife, particularly the vibrant and vivacious red squirrel. Known for their distinctive fiery fur and spirited personality, red squirrels can be both a delight and a dilemma for homeowners. In today's post, we’ll dive into the life of these intriguing creatures and share some tips and tricks for coexisting with them this spring.

Understanding the Red Squirrel

Red squirrels, smaller than their gray counterparts, are easily identified by their reddish fur and long, bushy tails. Active during the day, they are primarily solitary creatures except in mating season. These squirrels are known for their territorial nature and can be seen energetically defending their area from intruders.

As adept climbers, red squirrels build their nests in the forks of tree branches or within the hollows of trunks, often lining them with moss, leaves, and grass. They primarily feed on seeds, nuts, fruits, and occasionally insects, which they tirelessly gather and store for leaner times.

When Squirrels Come Calling

Despite their charming antics, red squirrels can become unwelcome guests when they decide to take up residence in your home. They are particularly fond of attics and lofts where they might chew through insulation, wood, or even electrical wiring, posing both a nuisance and a hazard.

Here’s what to do if a red squirrel makes its way into your home:

Identify and Seal Entry Points: First, determine how the squirrel is getting into your home. Look for holes or gaps in the roofline or siding. Once identified, wait until you are sure the squirrel has left for food (usually during the day) to seal these gaps. Steel wool or wire mesh works well for temporary blockages.

Use Humane Traps: If the squirrel is trapped inside, consider setting a humane trap near the entry point. Bait it with peanut butter or nuts, and check it frequently. Once caught, release the squirrel at least a mile away from your home to prevent it from returning.

Consult Professionals: For persistent problems or if you’re unsure of how to proceed safely, calling wildlife control professionals like us at Wildlife Control Services, LLC is your best bet. We can handle the situation with the right expertise and care.

Tips and Tricks for Coexisting with Red Squirrels

Provide Natural Food Sources: To keep squirrels happy and away from your home, consider setting up feeding stations or planting squirrel-friendly trees and shrubs like hazelnuts and berries in your yard.
Install Squirrel Guards: On bird feeders, use squirrel guards to prevent these agile creatures from pilfering the seeds meant for birds.
Use Squirrel-Proof Bulbs: When planting your garden, choose spring bulbs that are less appealing to squirrels, such as daffodils or alliums.

Embracing the Energetic Red Squirrel

While they can be mischievous, red squirrels bring vitality and excitement to our springtime gardens. Understanding and respecting their behavior makes it possible to enjoy their presence without inconvenience. Remember, if squirrel activity becomes overwhelming, Wildlife Control Services, LLC is here to help manage these furry visitors in a humane and effective way.

We hope you enjoy the playful antics of the red squirrels this season! Stay tuned for more tips and stories from the wild side of spring.

Happy Spring Watching! From your friends at Wildlife Control Services, LLC.