Squirrels
Squirrel Facts and Identification
Their limbs are adapted for climbing with sharp claws that help them grip onto bark or branches easily. Additionally, they have a long bushy tail that acts as an aid for balance when leaping between trees.
Squirrels can grow up to 27 inches in length.
Squirrels have a unique body structure that enables them to move swiftly and effortlessly through trees. Their limbs are adapted for climbing with sharp claws that help them grip onto bark or branches easily. Additionally, they have a long bushy tail that acts as an aid for balance when leaping between trees.
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What are Squirrels? Behavior, Habitat, and Control
Squirrels are notorious animals, known for being one of the most common small mammals found in almost every part of the world. These little intruders are recognized by their bushy tails and large front teeth, which continue to grow throughout their lives.
Squirrels are excellent climbers and spend much of their time scurrying up trees or along power lines. They may seem cute and harmless, but they can pose potential risks to humans. They transfer diseases and bacteria, and also cause property damage.
Let’s understand squirrels’ behavior, diet, and habitat, so that you can control them before they get settled in your attic or yard. So read our guide that how to get rid of squirrels in the attic.
Physical Characteristics
The appearance of squirrels can vary depending on the species. The most common squirrel in Ontario is the eastern gray squirrel, characterized by its distinctive gray fur, white underparts, and bushy tail. They have small ears and sharp claws that help them climb trees and run swiftly along branches.
Another type of squirrel is the fox squirrel, characterized by reddish-brown fur and a distinctive white belly. Their tails are also bushy but smaller and fluffier. On the other hand, ground squirrels have shorter tails and legs, as they do not need to climb trees; however, they have larger heads and bodies.
Squirrels’ teeth are used to gnaw on nuts, seeds, fruits, and even bark. Additionally, their eyes are situated high on their head to provide better vision while climbing trees or running across open areas. Overall, squirrels’ appearance allows them to adapt well to their environment while maintaining their unique charm.
The squirrels Behavior
Squirrels are fascinating, and they exhibit a multitude of exciting behaviors. One of the most noticeable behaviours is their ability to climb trees easily. They have sharp claws that allow them to grip onto tree bark and climb up vertically, often in pursuit of food or safety. They can also jump from one tree branch to another, showcasing their incredible agility.
Another interesting behaviour is squirrels’ tendency to store food for future use. This behaviour is known as caching. They have an impeccable memory, which allows them to remember where they’ve hidden their food even months after burying it.
Finally, squirrels exhibit social behaviour through their interactions with other species members. They communicate using vocalizations such as chirps and barks and engage in playful activities like chasing each other around trees or grooming one another’s fur.
Squirrel Diet
Squirrels are known for their love of nuts, particularly acorns and walnuts. They also eat seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Interestingly, they have a unique digestive system that allows them to break down complex carbohydrates found in these foods.
In addition to their typical diet, squirrels have been known to indulge in meat occasionally. They have been observed eating insects, bird eggs, and smaller rodents. This behaviour is more common among urban squirrels, who may have limited access to their traditional food sources.
Squirrels Habitat
Squirrels have adapted to living in various habitats, including forests, parks, gardens, and urban areas. Their ability to adapt to multiple environments is due to their flexible diet and behavioural patterns.
In the wild, squirrels live in hollow trees or nests made from twigs and leaves. These nests provide shelter and protection from predators. In urban areas, squirrels may choose to nest in attics or other structures that provide safety.
Moreover, they are well-suited for this as they have sharp claws that allow them to grip onto surfaces tightly. Overall, squirrels’ habitats are varied and adaptable, making them a common sight in many settings.
Humane Wildlife Removal Service
Acme Pest Solutions offers humane wildlife removal services to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and humans.
Our team at Acme Pest Solutions is trained to handle a variety of wildlife species and uses eco-friendly and humane methods to ensure the safety of both the animals and the environment.
Common Types of Squirrels in Ontario
There are more than 200 types of squirrels in the world. The following are squirrel species found in Ontario:
- Eastern Grey
- Red Squirrel
- IEastern Fox
- Northern Flying Squirrels
- Southern Flying Squirrels
Potential Health Risks by Squirrels
One of the most significant risks is their droppings, which can transmit diseases such as Salmonella and Leptospirosis. These bacteria can be easily transferred to humans through contact with contaminated surfaces or the inhalation of dust particles that contain the bacteria.
Another health risk associated with squirrels is their tendency to carry fleas and ticks. Moreover, squirrels are known carriers of hantavirus that can be transmitted through direct contact or inhalation of virus-contaminated urine or feces.
Squirrel Removal Strategies
If you have a squirrel problem on your property, it is essential to implement control and removal strategies.
- One effective method for controlling squirrels is to remove their access to food sources. This means cleaning up any fallen fruit or nuts from trees and removing bird feeders that may attract them.
- You can also install barriers around vulnerable areas of your home or garden, such as fencing around vegetable patches or mesh over attic vents.
- In some cases, it may be necessary to trap and relocate squirrels from your property. However, this should only be done by trained professionals who can ensure the safety of both the animals and humans involved.
- Additionally, it is essential to consult local laws and regulations regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife before taking any action.
Controlling squirrel populations requires a combination of prevention tactics and humane removal methods to manage these adorable but potentially destructive critters effectively.
Preventive Measures
- Prevention methods are crucial to keeping squirrels from invading your home or garden.
- Place mesh wire around the garden bed, or use squirrel-proof bird feeders.
- Pruning tree limbs that are close to your roof can prevent squirrels from accessing it and potentially causing damage.
- Seal any holes or cracks in the exterior of your home, such as in the attic, walls, or chimney.
- Use repellents as a preventative measure against squirrels. This includes natural deterrents, such as predator urine or spicy substances like cayenne pepper.
- Keep your pets’ flea and tick prevention treatments up-to-date if you live in an area where squirrels are prevalent.
- Wear gloves when cleaning up squirrel droppings and avoid any direct contact with these rodents if possible.
Being proactive and taking preventative measures is key when dealing with squirrel infestations. By implementing these strategies, you can help ensure that your home and garden remain free of unwanted furry visitors. Contact Acme Pest Solution for the squirrels removal services in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs)
You can do a few things to remove squirrels from your tree – one of which is to use a squirrel deterrent. A few products on the market will help scare squirrels away from your tree, and they usually work by emitting an unpleasant smell or producing loud noises.
Squirrels can be a nuisance in your garden, and if you can’t get them out, there are a few things you can do to try to prevent them from returning. For example, consider erecting a fence around your garden or installing a squirrel-proof bird feeder.
Squirrels are a common problem in attics. You can use a variety of methods to remove them, but the most effective is usually to catch them in a live trap and release them elsewhere.