How do I get rid of squirrels?

Ruth McGhee
by Ruth McGhee

Squirrels are getting in my attic and around of my porch. What can I do to detour this?

  6 answers
  • Cm712341011 Cm712341011 on Dec 08, 2018

    I use mothballs to repel squirrels and chipmunks. Put them in a stocking, tie it shut so that animals can't eat them (they're toxic), and hang them in the areas where you see unwelcome squirrels.

  • Nan W. Nan W. on Dec 08, 2018

    Ruth: we had to replace the screening under the overhang with a product similar to this: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Construction-Metals-6-in-x-25-ft-Kwikmesh-Utility-Screen-Roll-KM625/202093092


    it worked!

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Dec 08, 2018

    Hi Ruth,


    We just went through this in January this year. Just like you they were in our attic, they got in through the soffit piece that was missing and chewed their way in. They chew just about anything, even wires, so be aware that they can start a fire.

    What we had to do was call a pest exterminator company, they came out with contract in hand and investigated where the squirrels were coming in. What they did was install a 1-way wire mesh tube for the squirrels to exit to feed, at the end of the tube was a gated flap that lets them go out but they cannot re-enter. This went on for several weeks and when we did not hear anymore activity, they came and removed the exit and secured the house, replacing the soffit and screwing it into place.They made multiple visits periodically to monitor activity. They really did a good job of squirrel proofing.


    As a side note, they breed and the litter of babies is usually born in late Jan, so you are fortunate to be able to tackle this problem now before they deliver in your attic.


    Now, to keep them away, DO NOT FEED ANYTHING OUTSIDE, no birds, no animals of any sort, do not toss out even a crust of bread. If you have a bird feeder take it down. If you have neighbors that feed the animals, that is an attraction for more squirrels, you may want to talk to them and explain the problem you are having.


    They did major damage to us, chewed 2 out of 4 spark plug wires, destroyed our front porch to the knee wall & had to have it rebuilt. The also raided our garden.


    Best to you!

  • Deborah Deborah on Dec 09, 2018

    In Mexico the keep chijaujas to put on the rooftops to chase away iguanas.

  • Ruth McGhee Ruth McGhee on Dec 10, 2018

    Thank you for your help. Now to put it to use!!!!