Squirrel Removal MN
A squirrel is in the family Sciuridae. This family also includes ground squirrels, flying squirrels, chipmunks and woodchucks. You may know squirrels best for their tendency to make a mad dash across the road in front of your oncoming car, but did you know that squirrels are also a major pest problem in some homes in Minnesota? Unfortunate but true! These bushy tailed little critters are actually quite troublesome which is why we want to caution homeowners about the likelihood of increased squirrel activity now that summer is here.
The gray squirrel is one of Minnesota’s most common wildlife species. It is often seen in backyards, parks and wooded rural areas. Because of its thick furry tail, it is sometimes called bushytail.
The eastern gray squirrel and eastern fox squirrel are among the most sought-after small game animals in Minnesota. A squirrel pressed in hiding against a tree is a challenging target. Also, its speed on the ground and through the treetops has vexed many a squirrel hunter.
The thirteen-lined ground squirrel, or “thirteen liner,” is the one you most often seen along roads in Minnesota.
The thirteen-lined ground squirrel, or “thirteen liner,” is the small gopher-like animal most often seen along roads in all but northeastern Minnesota. It is one of the animals that has adapted to urban and agricultural development, and actually has expanded its range in Minnesota.
These animals really do have 13 stripes – seven dark stripes separated by six lighter ones. The 13 liner is very familiar to Minnesotans because this little animal is the mascot for the University of Minnesota’s “Golden Gophers!”
Squirrel Kittens Will Be Arriving Soon
With the arrival of spring comes squirrel kittens.
Most squirrels in Minnesota are active all year round. But each spring and late summer, many female squirrels will give birth to her babies known as kittens. There are usually only two to five kittens but rest assured, this can quickly add up! This is especially true if squirrels have decided to take up residence on your property or even in your attic, basement or garage. Some of the problems associated with a squirrel infestation include:
- Power outages from chewing on electrical equipment
- Potential fire hazard from chewing on wires as well
- Structural damages from their tendency shred wood and gnaw on building materials
- Introduction of other pests like ticks and fleas
- Foul odor from urine, feces and dead squirrels
Prevention
Squirrels in your attic?
The best way to avoid a problem with squirrels in the attic or elsewhere in your home is to make sure they don’t get inside in the first place. Here are a few squirrel prevention tips to help Minnesota homeowners keep squirrels outside… where they belong!
- Keep doors and windows closed unless they have screens.
- Do not let garage doors sit open when not in use.
- Replace any screens in the home that are torn or otherwise broken.
- Seal off cracks, holes, and any openings along the exterior of the home.
- Be sure to install a chimney cap.
- Do not store trash in close proximity to your home and only use outside garbage cans that are made of durable plastic and that have tight closing lids. You may also consider bungee cording the cover on as an added safety measure.
Remove Pesky Squirrels
For those living in Minnesota, if you do happen to notice an increase of squirrel activity around your property, or especially if you are noticing damages to woodwork or electrical equipment, contact a Minnesota Wild Animal Management Expert today for effective squirrel control! Our wildlife removal team will safely remove the squirrels infesting your home or property and help prevent their future return. Then all you have to do is watch out for them in middle of the road!
