Squirrels can cause a lot of damage if they get into the yard or even inside the home. Before squirrels become a nuisance, it’s a good idea to consider what can be done to discourage them from coming into the yard. While nothing is going to be fool-proof and work all of the time, a combination of techniques can help keep the yard squirrel-free. Try some of the following techniques to get squirrels out of the yard.
Get Rid of Potential Food
The main reason for any squirrel infestation is access to food. Squirrels, like any other animal, will want to live somewhere that offers easy access to food. Clean up the yard regularly and remove any access to food to help keep squirrels away.
Spray Scents Around the Yard
Scents of predators sprayed around the edge of the yard can help keep squirrels out. Once they smell the scent, they may believe the danger is near, so they’ll leave the area and go somewhere else to get food. The application may need to be repeated regularly to keep the squirrels away.
Cover Vegetables Growing in the Yard
Squirrels love chewing on freshly grown vegetables, so they may try to get into the yard. Opt for covers over the vegetable garden, especially when the food is ripening, to help keep squirrels away. When fencing in a vegetable garden, make sure the fence is dug at least a foot into the ground so squirrels can’t just dig under to get to the food.
Cover the Ground
Squirrels don’t like mulch, so use mulch around the yard to keep them out. It may also be possible to discourage them from certain parts of the yard using tin foil or anything else that could irritate their feet without hurting them.
Use a Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder
There are bird feeders that are far more difficult for squirrels to get into, yet provide easy access for birds. Opt for this type of bird feeder if you love feeding the birds to prevent squirrels from moving in.
Use a Motion-Activated Sprinkler
A spray of water is going to send any pest running, including squirrels. There are DIY motion-activated sprinklers that are easy to install and can be set to come on any time motion is detected, scaring away squirrels.
Cover the Trash Can
While squirrels typically look for fresh vegetables or nuts and seeds, they will get into the trash if they smell something that might taste good. Use a tight-fitting lid on the trash can to keep it covered or use cords to secure the lid so it’s more difficult to open.
Prevent Nesting in the Home
Females will look for somewhere to nest that’s close to food, so if they can find a way inside a home, they may go in and create their nest. Inspect the exterior of the home and repair or block any areas that could be a potential entry point for squirrels.
Get a Dog
Dogs will chase the squirrels out of the yard, so they could be a great asset. Homeowners on the fence about getting a pet might want to go ahead if they’d like to keep squirrels out of the yard.
Prune Trees Around the Home
Make sure trees and bushes around the home are pruned. Keeping branches away from the home helps prevent squirrels from getting on the roof or into the attic and nesting.
If you’ve got a problem with squirrels, use the tips here to keep them out of your yard. If you do have an infestation or they’re getting into your home, call the pros for help right away.