Squirrels in the walls can be a major nuisance, causing both damage and potential health risks. If you’ve discovered that squirrels have made their home in the walls of your house, it's crucial to act quickly and efficiently to remove them. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get rid of squirrels in between walls, addressing the process safely, humanely, and effectively.

Why Do Squirrels Get Inside the Walls?

Squirrels are adept at finding ways into your home, especially through cracks and openings that you might overlook. They typically enter walls in search of warmth, shelter, and food, especially in colder months. A squirrel might also create a nest or burrow inside your walls, which can lead to significant damage over time. Some common ways squirrels get inside walls include:

• Gaps around vents, pipes, or chimneys
• Holes around window frames, doors, or roofing
• Damaged eaves or soffits
• Unsealed utility lines or wiring

How to Identify Squirrels in the Walls

Before taking action, it’s important to confirm that you have squirrels in your walls. Here are a few signs to look out for:

• Noises: Scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds from within the walls, particularly at night when squirrels are most active.
• Damaged Insulation: Squirrels may chew on insulation or wiring, which could cause issues with your home's heating or electrical systems.
• Droppings: Finding small, dark, pellet-like droppings near the affected area or in your attic is another sign.
• Visible Holes: Check for small holes or gaps in the walls or exterior of your home, which might serve as entry points.

Step-by-Step Guide to Get Rid of Squirrels in Between Walls

1. Confirm the Infestation

The first step is to verify that squirrels are indeed inside the walls. Listen closely for sounds of movement, especially in the early morning or evening. You can also try to pinpoint the source of the noise by inspecting the walls for droppings, small chew marks, or visible gaps that could be used as entry points.

2. Block Off Entry Points

Once you have confirmed the presence of squirrels, the next step is to prevent any further access.

• Inspect for Openings: Go around your house and inspect for any visible gaps, cracks, or holes in the walls, foundation, roofline, or eaves.

• Seal Off the Gaps: Use durable materials like steel wool, caulk, or heavy-duty mesh to seal any potential entry points. Make sure all gaps are blocked, leaving only one route of escape for the squirrels.

  Tip: If the squirrels are in your attic, you might want to use a one-way door on the exit point, allowing them to leave but not return.

3. Set Live Traps

Live traps are the most humane way to catch and remove squirrels from inside your walls. Here’s how to proceed:

• Choose the Right Trap: Select traps designed for squirrels. A suitable trap should be at least 10-12 inches long and 4-5 inches wide. These are available at most hardware stores or online.
• Bait the Trap: Use peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or apple slices as bait. Place the bait at the back of the trap to ensure the squirrel enters fully.
• Place the Trap: Set the trap near areas where the squirrels are most active. This could be around the baseboards, along the path they may be using to enter or exit the walls, or near attic access points.

Tip: Be sure to check the traps regularly to avoid causing stress or injury to the squirrels.

4. Use Squirrel Repellents

If setting traps is not enough or if you want to further deter the squirrels, you can use natural repellents to make your home less attractive to them.

• Peppermint Oil: Squirrels dislike the strong scent of peppermint. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it along areas where the squirrels are active, such as around the walls, attic, and vents.
• Ultrasonic Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are irritating to squirrels and other rodents, without being audible to humans. Installing one in your attic or near the wall can help drive the squirrels out.
• Ammonia or Mothballs: Strong-smelling substances like ammonia or mothballs can also discourage squirrels from nesting in your walls, although they may not be as effective in the long term.

5. Let Them Escape

If possible, leave an exit route open for the squirrels so they can leave the walls on their own. A one-way door or exit is the most effective solution, as it lets the squirrels exit but prevents them from re-entering. This technique can be used in conjunction with the traps to ensure that all squirrels are removed.

• Install a One-Way Door: If you know where the squirrels are exiting the walls (usually in your attic or along the eaves), install a one-way door. This allows them to leave but not return.

6. Relocate the Squirrels

Once you’ve caught the squirrels in the traps, relocate them far from your home, ideally in a wooded or rural area, at least a couple of miles away. This prevents them from returning.

• Humane Handling: Wear gloves when handling the traps to avoid direct contact with the squirrels. Take care not to harm them during the relocation process.

7. Repair Damage and Prevent Reentry

Once the squirrels are out, make sure to repair any damage caused by their presence. Squirrels can chew on wiring, insulation, and wood, which can lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed.

• Fix Any Damage: Inspect for any gnawed areas on electrical wires, insulation, or the walls themselves. Make necessary repairs to prevent future issues.
• Seal All Gaps and Holes: Recheck all the entry points and seal them properly to prevent the squirrels from getting back inside. Use materials like metal mesh or steel wool, which squirrels cannot gnaw through easily.

8. Call a Professional if Necessary

If you’re unable to remove the squirrels yourself or if the infestation is too large, it’s best to contact a professional pest control or wildlife removal service. They have the tools and expertise to handle squirrel infestations effectively and humanely.

Conclusion: How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Between Walls

Getting rid of squirrels inside your walls requires patience, the right tools, and a multi-step approach. By identifying entry points, setting traps, using repellents, and preventing re-entry, you can safely and effectively resolve a squirrel infestation. If necessary, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who specialize in humane wildlife removal. Remember, taking action quickly helps prevent damage to your home and keeps the squirrels out for good.