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There are 3 basic types of squirrels that conflict with homeowners
in our service area. Red Squirrels, Fox Squirrels and flying squirrels. This page will show you the different signs, sounds,
damage and control methods we use to control squirrels.
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Fox squirrels are the most recognizable because they are easily
seen foraging for food often times right in the front or back yard. These squirrels can get very brave and bold if fed by
humans. Colors range from a light golden brown to black. These squirrels become a problem when they nest in attics, eaves
and chimneys. Fox squirrels have their litter in May or June and can have as many as 10 per litter. Much like the raccoon
babies they do not move very far for the first 4 weeks.
Trapping fox squirrels is done the same as red and flying squirrels.
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Red Squirrels, also known as Pine Squirrels or Chickarees are
one of the smallest tree squirrels. They are generally reddish-brown to grayish-red on their backs, with a black lateral line
along their side separating their white belly hair. Their bodies measure approx. 6-10 inches long and are often confused
for chipmunks because of their smaller size compared to fox and gray squirrels.
Red Squirrels typically have one to
two litters per year with the first being born in April or May and a second litter being born in August or September. Litters
vary in size from 3-7 . It is this family unit which we must remove from your home to eliminate possible damage to wiring,
insulation, personal items and heirlooms stored in your attic.
Squirrels spend most of their days foraging for food
and are often heard in the ceiling early in the morning or late afternoon just before or after sunset. They spend all of the
night sleeping and therefore rarely make any noise. Red squirrels are active year round even in severe winter weather. Their
diet consists of pine cone seeds and other nuts and seeds within their territory, often a pine tree is very close to a home
with a Red Squirrel problem.
Red Squirrels are very territorial and will aggressively defend their home and food supply,
this makes trapping the logical answer to ridding a home of red squirrels. Once our Technician has identified an entry point
they will determine the best possible control solution. We have many different traps and techniques to remove squirrels.
It is very important not to seal any holes until all squirrels have been removed, squirrels that are locked out of their
home & food supply will chew a new hole even through metal to regain access to their food and nest. Squirrels locked in a
structure will chew their way out, possibly into the living area of the house.
Trapping & Monitoring
Once a squirrel
is caught our technician will begin monitoring the entry hole and communicating with you regarding any activity you may still
have. This will continue until the entry hole shows no movement. Monitoring is usually done by placing something over the
hole that can easily be moved or chewed by the squirrel. When the hole has not been disturbed for a few days the technician
can then make the necessary repairs to prevent future problems.
For more info contact our office.
Copyright
2004 all rights reserved.
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A typical squirrel entry point along a doormer and roof area.
AntEco can repair these opening but only after all the squirrels have been removed. Sealing holes before all the squirrels
are removed can almost guarantee that the squirrels will re-gain entry and more damage to your home.
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Flying Squirrels do not actually fly they glide from high tree
branches soaring as far as 40'. These squirrels are about the same size as the red squirrel but have very big eyes. Their
large eyes help them to see at night, They are a nocturnal animal and are heard scurrying about after dusk. Damage to properties
is much like the fox and red squirrel. Controlling these night time invaders can be done by setting a funnel trap over their
exit hole during the daytime while they slumber in your attic. When they emerge after sunset they willfully go into the trap
and wait for our arrival.
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