04 Dec 2008

Description

The grey squirrel weighs about 500g and stands around 25cm high. The body is adapted for climbing and jumping and they use their tail for balance.

Distribution

The grey squirrel was introduced from North America during the last century and they have spread throughout most of mainland England and Wales.

The squirrel resides in woods, copses and hedgerows and is a common resident of parks and gardens where there are trees. The squirrel will usually build their dreys (nests) in the forks of trees and tree hollows and sometimes in lofts when access is available.

Life cycle

There are two breeding seasons for squirrels and the first litters are born in February and March and the second in June and July. The young are born after a gestation period of forty-five days and are weaned at ten weeks old. The litter size averages three to four young.

Significance

Squirrel populations appear to be on the increase and they are more prevalent now in residential areas.

Squirrels can be a nuisance in the garden by disturbing plants and eating bird food. However, the major concern is when they enter roof spaces of buildings.

They can do this by climbing walls or jumping from nearby trees and then gaining access to the roof through gaps in the roof and eaves.

Once inside the roof they can cause serious damage by chewing woodwork and ceilings, stripping insulation from electrical wiring and from pipes and may contaminate water storage tanks.

Control Methods

If there is food for squirrels then they are likely to remain in the area and breed productively. A deterrent to them is for you and your neighbours not to put out food which squirrels can gain access to. Special bird feeders are available which deter squirrels eating bird food.

Proofing may be one of the most effective methods of dealing with the squirrel at individual premises. The expense may be justified when offset against the potential damage they could cause. All holes or entrances to the roof space should be blocked; this may be done by wedging wire tightly into gaps or by sealing these with strong mortar. This work should be done so as to make the roof space as secure as possible, you will still need to have adequate ventilation to the roof left after the proofing work has been done.

Attempts may be made by the squirrel to re-enter the roof space by trying to remove or bite through proofing materials. Do not under estimate the ingenuity and the sharp teeth of the squirrel!

Where it may appear that a squirrel has made a drey within the roof space the service of a private pest control contractor may need to be sought.

Trapping/Poisoning/Shooting is a specialist job to treat for squirrels requiring specific knowledge in order to carry out the work safely and comply with legal requirements. It is recommended that you have professional treatment to remove squirrels from a roof space.

The Council does not treat for squirrel infestations and for professional treatment you should approach an independent pest Control Company, details of which can be found in local telephone directories and Yellow Pages.