Red squirrels, though cute and energetic, can become a nuisance when they invade your yard or garden. Whether they’re raiding bird feeders, chewing on outdoor furniture, or causing damage to trees, it’s important to take action if you want to keep red squirrels away. In this article, we will discuss various strategies for how to get rid of red squirrels outside. From prevention methods to humane traps, these solutions will help protect your outdoor spaces from these mischievous critters.

Understanding Red Squirrels and Their Behavior

Before you tackle the issue, it’s important to understand why red squirrels are drawn to your property. Red squirrels are small, highly energetic creatures that are typically found in wooded areas, parks, and suburban yards. They are attracted to areas with plenty of food, especially bird seed, fruit trees, nuts, and vegetables. Additionally, they often seek out trees, attics, and other high places to build their nests.

Red squirrels are territorial and aggressive toward other animals, including other squirrels. This behavior, coupled with their sharp teeth, can lead them to gnaw on a variety of materials, including wires, wood, and plastic.

How to Get Rid of Red Squirrels Outside: Prevention and Control

Here are some proven strategies for keeping red squirrels away from your yard and garden.

1. Eliminate Food Sources

The first step in getting rid of red squirrels outside is to remove food sources that may be attracting them.

• Bird Feeders: If you have bird feeders, squirrels are likely helping themselves to the seeds. To prevent this, you can:
  • Use squirrel-proof bird feeders designed to deter squirrels.
  • Install baffles on poles to prevent squirrels from climbing up.
  • Switch to squirrel-repellent bird seed, such as those containing hot peppers.
• Fruit and Nut Trees: Red squirrels are attracted to fruits and nuts. If you have fruit trees or nut-bearing plants, be sure to harvest the produce as soon as it ripens. You can also install nets around your trees to prevent squirrels from accessing the fruits.
• Vegetable Gardens: If squirrels are raiding your vegetable garden, try using mesh fencing or protective covers to shield your plants. Growing plants with strong scents, like garlic or onions, may also deter squirrels.

2. Secure Your Property

Securing your property from red squirrels involves closing off entry points to areas where they might nest or find shelter.

• Seal Holes and Gaps: Check your house for any gaps or holes in the foundation, roofline, or attic that squirrels could use to enter. Use caulk, mesh, or steel wool to seal these entry points. Red squirrels are excellent climbers, so make sure your roof, vents, and eaves are tightly sealed.
• Trim Trees and Bushes: Squirrels can leap from tree branches onto rooftops or other structures. Trim any trees, bushes, or vines near your house, especially those that are close to the roofline, to reduce the squirrels’ access to your home.
• Use Squirrel-Proof Fencing: If red squirrels are nesting in your garden or flower beds, consider installing a squirrel-proof fence. This can be done by burying hardware cloth or chicken wire about 6-12 inches underground to prevent squirrels from digging their way in.

3. Use Squirrel Repellents

If red squirrels are still causing trouble in your yard, you can try using various repellents to make your property less appealing to them.

• Commercial Squirrel Repellents: Many stores sell squirrel repellents that contain ingredients like capsaicin (found in hot peppers), garlic, or other natural substances that squirrels dislike. These can be sprayed around your yard, garden, or trees to keep squirrels away.
• Homemade Repellents: You can make your own squirrel repellent by mixing water with hot sauce or pepper flakes. Spraying this mixture around your yard, especially near food sources, can deter squirrels from hanging around.
• Essential Oils: Squirrels dislike the smell of certain essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and cinnamon. Mixing these oils with water and spraying the solution around your property can help keep squirrels away.

4. Trapping Red Squirrels

If you have a persistent squirrel problem and other methods haven’t worked, humane trapping might be a necessary step.

• Live Traps: You can purchase live traps from most hardware stores or online retailers. These traps allow you to catch squirrels without harming them. To set the trap, bait it with food that squirrels are attracted to, such as peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or nuts.
  • Place the traps in areas where squirrels are active, such as near food sources or along the edges of your yard.
  • Check the traps regularly to avoid leaving trapped squirrels for too long.
• Release the Squirrel: Once a squirrel has been caught, release it at least a few miles away from your property to prevent it from finding its way back.
• Important Note: Before trapping and relocating squirrels, check local laws in your area. Some places may have regulations about trapping and relocating wild animals.

5. Use Ultrasonic Repellents

Ultrasonic devices emit high-pitched sounds that are unpleasant for squirrels but are inaudible to humans. These devices can be an effective way to keep squirrels away from certain areas. Place ultrasonic repellent devices near your garden, attic, or yard to create an environment that squirrels will avoid.

6. Install a Predator Decoy

Squirrels are prey animals, and they’re often afraid of predators like hawks, owls, and cats. Placing a realistic predator decoy, such as an owl statue or a motion-activated predator sound device, can help deter red squirrels from approaching your property.

How to Get Rid of Red Squirrels Outside: Recap of Methods

1. Eliminate food sources by using squirrel-proof bird feeders, removing ripe fruits, and protecting your garden with fencing.
2. Secure your property by sealing holes in your home, trimming trees, and installing squirrel-proof fencing.
3. Use repellents, such as commercial or homemade sprays, to make your yard unappealing to squirrels.
4. Trapping red squirrels can be a last resort, but be sure to use humane methods and follow local laws.
5. Ultrasonic devices can emit sounds to repel squirrels and keep them away from your property.
6. Install a predator decoy, like a hawk or owl statue, to frighten squirrels off your land.

Conclusion

Getting rid of red squirrels outside requires a combination of prevention, repellent use, and possibly trapping. By removing food sources, securing your property, and using repellents, you can discourage red squirrels from nesting or causing damage around your home. If all else fails, humane traps can be an effective solution for removing squirrels from your property. Remember, keeping your yard and home secure and less appealing to squirrels is the best long-term strategy to prevent future issues.

By using these strategies, you can protect your property and enjoy a squirrel-free yard.