Squirrels

Description

The North American Grey Squirrel was introduced into Britain between 1876 and 1929.  It is mainly a resident of woodland, where it has replaced the native Red Squirrel.  It is now commonly found in parks and gardens.

Significance

The most common damage caused by grey squirrels is the grawing of tree bark, which occurs mainly during the months of May, June and July.  Squirrels will also cause damage by robbing birds nests, taking fruit in gardens, digging holes in lawns, uprooting of bulbs and also causing damage occasionally to electrical wiring and insulating material when they gain access into attics and roof spaces.

Life cycle

Squirrels have two breeding seasons every year; the first litters are normally born in late February and March.  Squirrels have a second litter between June and July.  The average litter size is 3 or 4.  The nest is normally built in the fork of a tree at a height of 2-15 metres from the ground.  It is common for them to also nest in roof spaces of houses.  The nest itself is built from twigs and leaves, lined with grass, moss and animal fur, or if built in a roof space, often formed from insulation material.

Control

Squirrels most commonly gain access to roof spaces by way of overhanging branches from trees and/or a missing or displaced roofing slate or tile.  If overhanging branches are to blame, they should be cut back to a reasonable distance from the building.  Missing roofing slates or tiles should be replaced, but first make sure that the squirrels are out of the roof space.

If you do not wish to carry out treatment yourself, professional pest control companies listed in Yellow Pages will be able to help.