Squirrel Pest Control in Santa Ana, CA

Where do Squirrels Live?

Most common squirrels in California fall under one of the 2 types mentioned above. Tree squirrels, as their name implies, live in the branches of trees. Their nests are very high up in the tree, and this is where they will give birth and raise their litters. Ground squirrels, on the other hand, live in burrows underground. They will come up in search of food and resources, but much of their time is also spent underground with their young. These squirrels will occasionally find their way inside and, given the right resources and shelter, will create a nest inside your home, attic, basement, chimney, or roof.

Signs You Have Ground Squirrels

Ground squirrels are typically most active from spring to fall, but California’s great weather gives them an opportunity to be a year-round pest. Having even one ground squirrel burrow can be extremely problematic because it can house up to 10 squirrels. Signs you have a ground squirrel problem are usually pretty apparent. They leave large mounds of dirt which can be abutted up against a building or completely out in the open. They can be easily mistaken for mole hills or other ground burrowing rodents’ nests, so having a licensed rodent control expert come out to lay a trap to see what the culprit of the damage is recommended. 

Are Squirrels a Threat?

Squirrels are usually timid creatures that steer clear of humans as much as possible. However, they can sometimes become aggressive if cornered or sick. They can also cause a good amount of damage if they find their way in and decide to nest in your home.

The most common problems squirrels cause are:

• Property damages: If a squirrel thinks there is shelter or food inside, they will pull up roof tiles and chew through building materials to get there. They will gain access to wall cavities, attics, and basements, and build nests that can prompt other problems if left uncontrolled.
• Fire hazards: Like rats and mice, squirrels can chew through wiring, exposing hot wires, which can catch fire.
• Noise: Squirrel activity makes a lot of noise in attics and walls, so this is extremely problematic at night when families are trying to sleep.
• Digging up lawns: Ground squirrels will destroy landscaping and gardens as burrows expand.
• Biting and sickness: Squirrels will rarely attack unless threatened or sick. This is concerning because they are capable of passing diseases like rabies and the bubonic plague.
• Parasites: Just like any other rodent, squirrels can host fleas, ticks, and mites, which will infest their nests and then your home.

Quick Facts About Ground Squirrels

Habits

Ground squirrels feed on trees, shrubs, and vegetation. In heavily populated areas, ground squirrels have been known to steal food left outside by humans. In southern California, ground squirrels don’t hibernate for winter and are generally active all year long, though some may stay dormant for a small period of time. They are grayish, light brown in color, and roughly 18 inches long from head to tail.

Habitat

Ground squirrels burrow in holes they scoop out themselves. In some cases, ground squirrels share the tunnel system with each other, but each squirrel will have its own entrance. Squirrels will also use existing holes to create their homes.

Threats

Ground squirrels will feed on ornamental plants, fruits, and vegetables, and so they are often considered garden pests. Squirrels can also spread disease and parasites. In some cases, squirrels can find their way to the attic space and destroy insulation while they build their nests.

Prevention

The best method to remove a squirrel population is to use exclusion. All holes in the yard or attic will need to be sealed. We recommend beginning a preventative maintenance program to keep them from returning. Neighborly Pest Control uses humane methods of trapping and removal. We also offer cleanup and restoration services if squirrels have damaged your property. For more information about our ground squirrel removal services, call us today.

Squirrel Control FAQs

Can pest control get rid of squirrels?

Neighborly’s licensed and trained rodent control experts can create a custom squirrel removal and exclusion strategy that will effectively trap and prevent squirrels from gaining access to your home.

How much does squirrel control cost?

Ground squirrel control and removal range in price depending on the severity of the infestation. If squirrel trapping and removal need to be done before exclusion, then the price will reflect that. Neighborly Pest Control prices competitively so we can provide the best value possible for our customers.

Who do you call to remove squirrels?

Neighborly Pest Control has a team of licensed experts ready to help you combat your squirrel problem. Our rodent control technicians can be with you shortly to complete an inspection of your property so they can create a custom treatment plan.

How do I rid my yard of squirrels?

Getting rid of squirrels in your yard can prove to be difficult, given that they are wild animals in their territory. That being said, you can attempt to remove what is attracting them to help minimize their presence. Removing things like bird feeders will help eliminate things that squirrels feed on. If they continue to be problematic, a Neighborly Pest Control professional can stop by to lend a hand. Call today to get a free inspection to see if you have squirrel problems.