Grey squirrels were deliberately introduced to this country from North America by the Victorians sometime in the 1800’s and have spread throughout most of mainland England and Wales. They are a threat to our native Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris).
Squirrel damage
The most serious damage in urban areas arises where squirrels enter the roof spaces of properties
by climbing the walls or using overhanging branches of nearby trees. Once inside they gnaw woodwork, strip the insulation from electrical wiring, tear up fibreglass insulation to form a drey (nest) and occasionally drown in exposed water storage tanks. Lead roof flashing is also frequently damaged by squirrels.
Where squirrels enter roof spaces the potential cost of the damage often justifies the expense of cutting back tree branches from over hanging roof and gutters. Soffits and fascia boards fitted to the roof eaves should be repaired if rotten, to deter squirrels. We can advise if proofing works are required.
It is very important that proofing should not be carried out until squirrels using the roof area have been removed and activity has ceased.
Bird feeding
Bird feeding encourages birds into your garden which allows us all to enjoy nature and benefit the local bird population. Like all good things there is often a downside, bird feeding encourages rats and squirrels, established bird feeding provides an established food source for squirrels and they will look for close by harbourage and that can often be your roof space as described above. If your local area has a high population of squirrels and your bird feeders are overrun by hungry squirrels, consider squirrel resistant bird feeders and devices designed to make access to bird food more than a mission impossible.
The Law
Did you know Grey squirrels Sciurus carolinensis are classified as an invasive pest, as they are not native to the UK. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 it is an offence to release grey squirrels.
How we can help
Our domestic grey squirrel trapping programme (inside an accessible loft area only) is based on 3 visits to site over an approx. 10 to 14-day period.
Cost of a 3-visit domestic treatment, for owner occupied property, is £240 including VAT.
Due to the nature and complexity of squirrel trapping the number of site visits may be more than 3 but these will be agreed by the customer.