Squirrel Removal in Vancouver
Dealing with a squirrel problem on your property? Leave it to the professionals. Our team at Critter Control Canada has the experience, knowledge, and equipment to remove squirrels from your home or business in Vancouver and employ preventative measures to keep them out.
Common Areas Affected by Squirrels
There are several types of squirrels in Vancouver, and the most common species are the Eastern gray squirrel, the Douglas squirrel, the Western gray squirrel, the red squirrel and Northern flying squirrel. Both tree and flying squirrels are drawn to locations with food, water, and shelter. This inclination leads them to establish their habitats in urban and suburban environments, where such resources are conveniently accessible.
Tree squirrels and flying squirrels thrive in wooded areas with mature hardwood trees and ample ground cover. They construct nests out of twigs and leaves high up in tree branches or in hollowed tree cavities. Urban and suburban environments provide the same qualities for an ideal squirrel habitat.
Their adaptable nature has seen them seek homes in populated areas. This propensity often guides them to nest in spaces within residences and commercial establishments. Some common areas where raccoons might establish their nests include:
- Backyard sheds
- Garages
- Attics
- Roofs
- Ceilings
- Within walls
At Critter Control Canada, we understand the intricacies of raccoon behaviour and habitat preferences. Our expertise allows us to address squirrel-related challenges and effectively develop tailored solutions for removal.
Squirrel Behaviour
Tree squirrels enter homes looking for shelter. Some types of squirrels can give birth to two litters in a year. During their breeding period, female squirrels can build nests (dreys) in attics or wall cavities. Homeowners typically notice these litters during late spring/summer and autumn.
In the winter, they are likely to invade homes and other structures to ride out the harsh winter months. Because they do not hibernate, squirrels build caches of nuts to eat. It’s not uncommon to find squirrel caches inside your home after the cold weather.
In their quest for shelter, squirrels seek out havens shielded from the elements. In certain instances, they won’t hesitate to tear through minute openings to gain entry to buildings. Once indoors, these resourceful creatures can cause harm by damaging insulation, gnawing on wires, and even chewing through wooden structures. You are more likely to hear their distinctive sounds and scurrying noises early in the mornings.
Seasonal Issues Associated with Squirrels
Squirrels are most active during the warmer months spanning from spring through fall. Critter Control Canada remains available year-round to address any removal needs you may encounter.
Winter
Squirrels in Vancouver do not hibernate. To survive, squirrels hoard food and build nests to withstand the cold winters. Tree squirrels gain weight, grow a thick coat, and build a nest protected from the elements. Attics, walls, and ceilings offer ideal locations for a winter nest.
Summer
Squirrels usually leave their nests during the summer. Squirrel kits wean after ten to twelve weeks. Weaned pups mature and multiply quickly. Female squirrels can reproduce within their first year.
Spring
Female squirrels can have two litters per year. The first littler is typically born in late winter or early spring. Homeowners will start to hear baby squirrel noises in April in Vancouver.
Fall
If squirrels have a second litter, they give birth in late summer or early fall. As winter approaches, squirrels need to find a safe place for a winter nest and start storing food.
Preventative Measures
Preventative measures can act as a strong deterrent, but in some cases, this won’t stop raccoons from taking up residence near your home or business. For ongoing problems on your Vancouver property, we recommend professional squirrel removal services.
How to Prevent Squirrels from Invading
Preventing squirrel infestations requires a combination of strategies aimed at making your property less attractive to these animals. Here are some effective measures to consider:
Secure Birdfeeder and Food Sources
Squirrels are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Remove bird feeders or install squirrel deterrents. If you have a garden, harvet or remove ripe fruits and vegetables.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Raccoons are excellent climbers and can use tree branches to gain access to your roof or attic. Trim branches that hang over your home or touch your roof, making it more difficult for raccoons to reach these areas.
Keep Yard Tidy
Like most rodents, squirrels will use ground coverage to hide. Raking leaves, remove brush piles, and trimming hedges and brush will reduce areas of shelter for squirrels.
Seal Entry Points
Inspect your property for any openings, gaps, or cracks that squirrels could exploit. Check for gaps along the roof line, vents, and uncapped chimneys. Seal these entry points using sturdy materials like metal mesh or hardware cloth.
Humane Removal Methods
When dealing with raccoon issues, it’s important to opt for humane removal methods that prioritize the safety and well-being of these animals. The most effective way to get rid of squirrels from your house is either a one-way door or a squirrel trap. Our experienced team will employ both tactics to ensure squirrels are trapped and removed in a way that minimizes stress and harm.
Repair Services
Addressing the damage caused by wildlife in your home or business is a crucial part of our services. To protect yourself and others in your space, we repair any destruction caused by raccoons and promptly dispose of soiled materials. Once complete, we move on to exclusionary measures.
Exclusion Measures
Exclusion measures involve barriers and deterrents that discourage raccoons from approaching your property. This can include installing mesh screens on vents, covering and reinforcing holes or gaps, and placing barriers around open porches.
Our expert team can assess your property’s unique vulnerabilities and recommend tailored exclusion strategies to safeguard against raccoon invasions.
Professional Assistance for Squirrel Removal in Vancouver
At Critter Control Canada, we specialize in squirrel control in Vancouver. With our in-depth knowledge of squirrel behaviour and extensive experience in wildlife removal, we are equipped to handle any squirrel-related challenges you may face. Whether you’re dealing with a current infestation or looking to fortify your property against future invasions, our team is dedicated to providing effective, ethical solutions.
Don’t let raccoons take over your property. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a raccoon-free environment.