Squirrel Removal & Control

If you're facing a gnawing problem—literally—you're likely dealing with a very common but unwelcome guest: the squirrel. It's not just any run-of-the-mill backyard animal; this little critter can cause big headaches for homeowners and property managers alike. 

The Squirrels Of Central Iowa

Central Iowa is home to several kinds of these pests. The Eastern Gray Squirrel is a common sight, scampering across tree branches and power lines. You might also see the smaller, more agile Red Squirrel navigating your yard.  Occasionally, you may even encounter the nocturnal Flying Squirrel, a stealthy critter you may not see but will certainly hear as it skitters around your attic in the middle of the night. While these animals may be charming to look at when you're on a walk in the woods, they become far less charming when they start wreaking havoc on your property.

You might be wondering, what's the big deal? How much trouble can such a small creature cause? The truth is squirrels can be responsible for a variety of problems. They dig up gardens, chew through electrical wiring, destroy drops, and have a knack for finding their way into your attic or even inside your walls, where they can make nests and bring in parasites. In the world of small nuisances, this creature holds an exceptional résumé.

Apart from the physical damage, squirrels can also be a health hazard. The nests they create are often filled with feces and urine, which are not things you want accumulating anywhere in your home. These nuisances are also known as carriers of ticks and fleas, which can then migrate to your pets or even yourself.

Did you know that the incisors of this animal never stop growing? That's one reason why they are constantly gnawing on things—like your home's structure—to grind their teeth down.  Also, despite their seemingly haphazard actions, squirrels are surprisingly intelligent. Studies have shown that they use deception to protect their food caches, leading other animals astray.  

Statistically speaking, the cost of damage caused by wildlife nuisances like these can run to the hundreds of millions nationally. In the agriculture sector alone, these critters are responsible for significant losses each year. One Texas county reported losses of half a million dollars by itself. Don't let your property become another statistic.

Managing Your Squirrel Issue

Given how persistent squirrels can be some people might be tempted to tackle the issue themselves. Do-it-yourself solutions abound on the internet, from traps to repellents. However, attempting to manage this nuisance on your own is not suggested. First, capturing them is not easy and handling them poses its own risks. Remember, these pests can carry parasites and diseases.

Additionally, without the proper expertise, you could inadvertently create a situation where the animal is trapped but not removed, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health risks. Improper exclusion methods can also result in the creature finding another way into your property, meaning all your hard work was for naught.

When it comes to managing squirrels, professional help is often the best course of action. At Backwater Wildlife Solutions, our team of experienced and licensed experts uses humane and effective methods to handle these nuisances. Our comprehensive approach involves assessing the situation, capturing the animals, repairing any damage they have caused, and implementing exclusion methods to ensure they don't return.

So, don't let squirrels gnaw their way into your peace of mind. Contact us today for a consultation and let Backwater Wildlife Solutions restore tranquility to your home and property.



Frequently Asked Squirrel Questions

Q1. Can Squirrels Interact with My Home Security Systems?

A2. Believe it or not, these small but agile creatures have been known to trigger home security systems. While their body mass is generally insufficient to set off pressure-sensitive security measures, their movements can definitely be caught by motion detectors. This could result in false alarms, causing inconvenience and possibly even minor panic. With advanced security systems becoming more commonplace in homes, understanding how wildlife nuisances like these can interact with them is crucial. If you're getting a lot of false alarms, the culprit might be closer to your roof than you think.  

Q2. Are There Any Environmental Factors That Attract Squirrels to My Property?

A2. Many people blame themselves or their habits for the unwelcome presence of these critters, but the truth is that environmental factors can play a significant role. For example, the presence of certain types of vegetation, like oak or walnut trees, can act like a magnet for squirrels because they provide a convenient food source. Similarly, poorly managed community waste systems can create an attractive environment for these animals, pulling them into residential areas. Understanding the bigger picture can help in devising strategies that are not just reactive, but also proactive.

Q3. Can Squirrels Interfere with My Outdoor Pets or Livestock?

A3. While these pests are generally not aggressive toward larger animals, their presence can cause unintended complications for outdoor pets or even small livestock. They can contaminate water and food sources, resulting in the potential spread of disease. Also, their constant scurrying and foraging behavior can stress other animals, affecting their health and well-being indirectly. Additionally, these critters often carry ticks and fleas, which can be easily transferred to pets like dogs and cats.