How do you know when you have a squirrel infestation?

You will know if you have squirrels in your home as they make a lot of noise from scuttling, scratching and gnawing when residing in roof voids and loft spaces. It can be very disturbing and can often keep you up at night, which is when they are generally most active. That is why they are often confused with rats and mice, but the difference is that squirrels will be much louder and causing much greater destruction on a case per case basis.

If they are in your loft you will notice a lot of structural damage and debris caused by the tearing-up of loft insulation for bedding as well as chewed timbers and pipe-work. They will also chew through electrical wiring and cables, which could not only cause costly electrical problems in your home or workplace, but is also a potential fire hazard. Therefore, if you think you may have squirrels in your property, it is important to call a professional to deal with them immediately.

What risks can squirrels pose to you and your property?

• Structural damage to property including timbers and pipe-work
• Damage to electrical wiring and cables causing a potential fire risk
• Contamination of water supply if they die, defecate or urinate in uncovered storage tanks
• Damage to bulbs, plants and trees
• Loss of sleep from loud noises keeping you up at night
• Distress and anxiety

How we treat grey squirrels?

• Proofing to deny entry
• Hygiene and storage advice
• Baiting
• Trapping
• Shooting

What laws govern the treatment and control of squirrels?

It is important to note that red squirrels are completely protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, however the grey squirrel is an invasive species, so cannot be re-released into the environment if caught, by law, as per the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019. The laws we must comply with regarding the treatment of grey squirrels include:

• Pests Act 1954
• Wild Mammal Protection Act 1996
• Animal Welfare Act 2006
• Spring Trap Approval Order 2012
• Food and Environment Protection Act 1985
• Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986