Having squirrels in your walls can be a major nuisance, not only due to the noise and potential damage they cause, but also because they can carry diseases and create fire hazards by chewing on wires. If you suspect squirrels have made a home inside your walls, it's essential to act quickly. Here's a detailed guide on how to get rid of squirrels in the wall safely and effectively.

Signs of Squirrels in Your Walls

Before taking action, make sure the sounds you're hearing or the damage you're noticing is actually caused by squirrels. Here are some common signs:

• Noises: Scratching, scurrying, or chewing sounds coming from within the walls, especially during the night, when squirrels are most active.
• Damage: Look for signs of damage to insulation, wires, and other materials in your attic or walls, as squirrels often chew on these.
• Visible Holes: Small holes around your roofline, eaves, or foundation that could provide squirrels access to your walls.
• Droppings: Finding small, pellet-like droppings in areas where you suspect squirrels are active.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Rid of Squirrels in the Wall

1. Identify Entry Points

Squirrels can gain access to your walls through small cracks or openings in the exterior of your home. The first step is to identify where they’re entering and exiting. Common entry points include:

• Roofline or soffits
• Chimney or vents
• Damaged eaves or gaps around windows and doors
• Cracks or gaps in the foundation

2. Block Entry Points

After identifying the entry points, the next step is to seal them off. However, do this carefully. If squirrels are inside the wall, they need to be able to exit before you completely seal off the area. Here’s how:

• Inspect the Exterior: Check for holes or gaps on the outside of your home, including the roofline, vents, and windows. These are common entry points for squirrels.
• Seal Everything Except One Exit: Seal off all visible openings with materials like steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh. Leave only one point of exit for the squirrels. You can install a one-way door (also called a squirrel excluder) to allow squirrels to leave but not return.

3. Set Traps

Live traps are the best method for removing squirrels from your walls. These traps allow you to capture and release the squirrels humanely.

• Choose the Right Trap: Use a cage trap that’s large enough for a squirrel, typically at least 10 inches long and 5 inches wide.
• Bait the Trap: Use food like peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or apples to bait the traps.
• Place the Traps: Position the traps near the area where you suspect the squirrels are active or along their exit route. If you're unsure, place the traps near visible holes in the walls.

Tip: Check the traps frequently to ensure that any trapped squirrels are not stressed or injured.

4. Use Repellents

In addition to trapping, you can try using repellents to discourage the squirrels from staying in your walls. Some natural deterrents include:

• Peppermint Oil: Squirrels dislike the strong scent of peppermint. Mix peppermint oil with water and spray it around the areas where squirrels are active.
• Ammonia: Ammonia has a strong smell that can repel squirrels. Soak rags in ammonia and place them near entry points or in areas where squirrels have been active.
• Ultrasonic Repellents: These devices emit high-frequency sound waves that irritate squirrels and other rodents, driving them away from your home.

5. Let the Squirrels Leave

Once you’ve set the traps and installed a one-way door, give the squirrels time to leave. They will typically exit at night or early in the morning when they are most active.

• Leave the One-Way Door Open: A one-way door allows squirrels to leave but prevents them from returning. After a few days, check the area to make sure no squirrels are still inside.
• Monitor Traps: If you’re using traps, check them regularly to ensure that you catch the squirrels before they are stressed or harmed.

6. Relocate the Squirrels

Once you have trapped the squirrels, you can relocate them. Be sure to release them far from your home, at least a couple of miles away, to prevent them from finding their way back.

• Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling traps to avoid direct contact with the squirrels, which could be carrying diseases.
• Release in a Suitable Area: Release the squirrels in a wooded or rural area where they can find shelter and food.

7. Repair Damage and Prevent Reentry

After successfully removing the squirrels, it’s important to repair any damage they may have caused to your home.

• Inspect the Insulation and Wiring: Squirrels often chew on insulation and wires, which can lead to costly repairs. Inspect these areas for damage, and repair or replace as necessary.
• Seal All Entry Points: Once the squirrels have been removed, thoroughly inspect your home and seal up any remaining gaps or cracks to prevent future invasions.
• Install Protective Barriers: Consider installing mesh or metal covers over vents, chimney openings, or other entry points to prevent squirrels from gaining access again.

8. Call a Professional if Necessary

If you're unable to remove the squirrels on your own or if the infestation is too large, consider calling a professional wildlife removal service. They have the tools, experience, and expertise to handle squirrel infestations humanely and effectively.

Conclusion: How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Wall

Getting rid of squirrels in your walls requires patience, care, and the right approach. By identifying entry points, setting traps, using repellents, and making sure the squirrels have a way to exit, you can humanely and safely resolve the issue. Always remember to repair any damage caused by the squirrels and seal up potential entry points to prevent future infestations. If needed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional pest control service for assistance.