Squirrels
Squirrel Facts
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Grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are the most common species causing problems in the UK. They are larger than red squirrels with grey fur and a bushy tail.
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Adults are typically 40–50cm long including the tail and can weigh up to 600g.
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They are excellent climbers and can access roofs, lofts, and trees with ease. They do not hibernate but are less active in very cold weather.
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While they do not spread diseases to humans as readily as rats, they can cause significant damage to property, insulation, wiring, and wooden structures.
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Squirrels are highly intelligent and persistent, often returning to the same property if entry points are not properly sealed.
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They are particularly active in autumn as they prepare for winter by storing food and seeking warm nesting sites.
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They are not native to the UK and contribute to the decline of both the much loved UK red squirrel population and UK forests through bark stripping.
Biology of Squirrels
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Female squirrels usually produce two litters per year, with 3–5 young per litter.
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The young are born blind and hairless but develop quickly and are independent after 10–12 weeks.
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Squirrels build dreys (nests) in trees or inside roof spaces using twigs, leaves, and insulation materials.
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They are mainly active during the day and have a strong sense of smell and memory, which helps them locate food and nesting sites.
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They need regular access to food and water and will travel significant distances to find suitable shelter, especially in urban and suburban areas.
Signs of Squirrels
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Scratching, scurrying, or gnawing noises in the loft or roof space (especially early morning or late afternoon)
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Droppings – larger than mouse droppings, often more rounded or bean-shaped
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Gnaw marks on wood, cables, plastic pipes, and bird feeders
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Damage to loft insulation (often pulled apart for nesting material)
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Entry holes in roofline, fascia boards, or soffits
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Sightings of squirrels on the roof or repeatedly visiting the garden
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Nesting debris (twigs, leaves, and shredded insulation) in the loft
Squirrel Treatment
Squirrels are intelligent, agile, and difficult to remove without proper knowledge and equipment.
At A Quick Kill Pest Control, we provide a professional, proven squirrel treatment and proofing service tailored to your home or business.
Our experienced technicians will:
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Conduct a thorough inspection of the roof, loft, and exterior to locate entry points and nesting sites.
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Use a combination of professional methods including live trapping, humane dispatch (where legal), and specialist proofing.
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Advise on essential preparation steps such as removing food sources and trimming overhanging branches.
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Seal all entry points with squirrel-proof materials to prevent re-entry.
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Offer a treatment guarantee to ensure the problem is fully resolved.
Important Advice: DIY attempts often fail and can result in squirrels becoming trapped inside the property or causing further damage.
Professional intervention is strongly recommended for safe, legal, and long-lasting results.
If you suspect squirrels in your home or business, contact us promptly for fast identification and effective treatment.