Squirrel Repellents & Deterrents

How to Repel and Deter Squirrels

Types of Squirrel Repellents

Squirrels cause a great deal of damage to homes and yards. The pests destroy gardens and strip bark from trees. They also gnaw on telephone wires and break into attics. To avoid costly infestations, homeowners often turn to squirrel repellents for help.

There are two main methods people use to repel these rodents: chemical or natural squirrel repellents. Some of the most common products include:

• Taste Changers: Applying these squirrel repellent sprays to seeds and trees makes them taste bitter. However, they can have a negative impact on plant growth.
• Polybutenes: Coating drains and railings with this sticky squirrel deterrent keeps the pests from climbing on homes. Unfortunately, it’s messy and hard to use.
• Hot Sauce: The ingredients in hot sauce create a taste and smell that squirrels usually avoid. Dousing garden plants can stop a pest from eating their nuts or fruit.
• Mothballs: We do not recommend using mothballs. Not only are mothballs temporarily effective at best, but also they can be toxic to people and pets. 

Problems with Squirrel Deterrents

Applying these products effectively is difficult. Residents need to use the perfect amount in the right spot to have any hope of controlling squirrel infestations. In addition, there’s always a health risk for those handling chemical repellents.

What to Do Instead

Since there is no guarantee that DIY squirrel repellents will work, homeowners can rely on professionals for all their wildlife pest solutions. The technicians at Critter Control have the tools and knowledge required to manage squirrels.

Learn more about squirrel removal.