Pest Control for Squirrels
Anticimex Carolinas does not offer carcass and dead animal removal. Animal removal is only performed by our team when an animal is found in a wildlife trap. For local animal removal services, please contact your municipal office.
If you own a home or business in North Carolina or South Carolina, it’s essential to protect your property from pests. Squirrels can be particularly problematic, nesting in vents, attics, and other small spaces, and they may carry diseases that pose health risks to you, your family, or your customers. Understanding their behavior, implementing preventive measures, and knowing effective treatment options are key to managing squirrel infestations.
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What Are Squirrels?
Squirrels are small, agile rodents known for their bushy tails and quick movements. They belong to the same family as prairie dogs, chipmunks, and marmots. While there are many species of squirrels, those commonly found in North and South Carolina include gray squirrels, fox squirrels, and southern flying squirrels. Most North American species measure 15 to 20 inches in length and typically weigh around a pound. Their diet mainly consists of seeds and nuts, but they can also be attracted to fruits, vegetables, and even small insects.
How Do I Identify Squirrels?
Squirrels have long bodies covered in thick fur and four legs, with longer hind legs that allow them to scurry around easily. The gray squirrel, the most common species in the Carolinas, has a distinctive white underbelly and gray fur. Fox squirrels may have yellowish underbellies, while southern flying squirrels often exhibit grayish-brown fur with white bellies.
Why Do I Have Squirrels?
Squirrels thrive in both urban and rural settings, drawn by food and shelter. They can squeeze through small openings to access homes or businesses, making them a potential nuisance. Once they discover a reliable food source, they are likely to return.
What Are the Effects of Squirrels in and Around My Home or Business?
Squirrels can cause considerable damage by gnawing on woodwork, ceiling panels, electrical wires, and insulation. They may also compromise the exterior of your property while trying to enter. Contamination of water supplies with feces and urine, rotting food left behind, and the introduction of diseases are other risks. Additionally, their chewing on electrical wires can create fire hazards, and if they become trapped in walls or attics, they may perish, leading to unpleasant odors.
How Long Do Squirrels Live?
In the wild, squirrels in North and South Carolina typically live between 3-7 years, depending on the species, with females often living longer—up to 12 years. They can reproduce after their first year, typically having two litters a year with two to five “kittens” in each litter, which can lead to rapid population growth if not controlled.
How Do I Prevent Squirrels?
Preventing squirrels from invading your property is vital. Experts advise against feeding them, as this encourages their return. Regularly remove fallen fruits, nuts, and other food sources, and ensure trash cans are tightly sealed. Pets like dogs or cats can help deter squirrels, and placing plastic statues around may scare them off. Additionally, inspecting your building for openings or weaknesses—especially in roofs and eaves—and promptly repairing any holes can help keep squirrels out.
Protecting Your Home or Business from Squirrels with Anticimex Carolinas
Anticimex Carolinas provides expert services designed to effectively control and prevent pests from invading your home or business in North and South Carolina. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques focus on identifying the root cause of the pest issue and addressing squirrel problems at their source.
We select and apply pest control materials in a way that minimizes risks to human health, pets, and the environment.
