Squirrels typically enter homes through openings in the roof or walls or gaps around windows and doors. Once inside, they will often build nests in attics or other sheltered locations. In some cases, squirrels may also gnaw on electrical wiring, posing a fire hazard. You may be wondering, ‘how small of a hole can a squirrel fit through?’
Therefore, if you suspect that a squirrel has entered your home, it is important to take measures to safely remove the animal and seal up any potential entry points.
This article will discuss how to keep squirrels out of your home.
How Small Of A hole Can A Squirrel Fit Through?
Talking of entry points, you might be wondering how small of a hole can a squirrel fit through. A squirrel can fit through the tiniest holes in your attic fans, ridge vents, exhaust ducts and vinyl soffit return.
These furry creatures only need a spot approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter to pass through.
How To Keep Squirrels From Getting Into Your Home?
Squirrels are determined little creatures and will do whatever it takes to get into your home searching for food or shelter. To keep them out, you need to take a proactive approach and make your home as squirrel-proof as possible. Here are a few tips:
Inspect The Exterior Of Your Home
If you want to keep squirrels out of your home, it is important to inspect your property’s exterior regularly. Look for any holes or gaps that could provide entry points for the animals. If you find any potential openings, seal them up with caulk or another type of appropriate material.
Remove Any Potential Food Sources
Food sources such as bird feeders or fallen fruit from trees can attract squirrels to your property. If you have outdoor pets, do not leave their food out overnight. Instead, pick up any uneaten food and store it in a secure location.
Keep Your Trash Cans Closed
Another way to keep squirrels away from your home is to make sure that your trashcans are kept closed at all times. If possible, invest in garbage cans with tight-fitting lids to keep the animals out.
Monitor Your Trees
If you have trees on your property, it is important to monitor them regularly. Look for any signs of damage or chew marks that could indicate the presence of squirrels.
If you do notice any damage, take steps to ensure there are no openings that could provide entry points for these pests. You should also trim trees near your roofline to prevent them from becoming a bridge for squirrels to access your home.
Make Noise
If you see a squirrel on your property, make noise to scare it away. You can bang on pots and pans or use an air horn or loud whistle. The goal is to make the squirrel feel unwelcome and encourage it to leave the area.
Use A Squirrel-Proof Feeder
If you enjoy feeding birds, consider investing in a squirrel-proof feeder. These feeders are designed to prevent squirrels from accessing the food while still allowing birds to eat.
Fun Facts About Squirrels
A squirrel is a small rodent with a furry tail. They are generally very active creatures and are known for their ability to climb trees. Squirrels typically eat nuts and seeds but can also be found eating insects and small animals. That said, here are some fun facts about squirrels:
Some people believe that seeing a white squirrel is lucky. In fact, there is a town in Tennessee called Olney that celebrates its large population of white squirrels with an annual festival.
Squirrels are agile and quick learners, able to solve complex problems. For example, they have been known to figure out how to open latches on bird feeders and raid them for food.
Squirrels are also good swimmers and can hold their breath for up to three minutes.
Despite their small size, squirrels are powerful animals. They can jump up to 20 feet in the air and run as fast as 20 miles per hour.
Squirrels are active during the day and sleep at night. During the winter, they may hibernate for short periods.
There are more than 200 species of squirrels living all over the world, including the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The most common species in the United States are the grey squirrel and the red squirrel.
Squirrels generally live anywhere from two to five years in the wild. However, some captive squirrels have been known to live up to 20 years.
How small of a hole can a squirrel fit through: The Takeaway
It is important to remember that squirrels are persistent creatures, and it may take some time to get them to stay away from your home.
However, if you are patient and take the necessary steps to squirrel-proof your property, you will eventually be successful in keeping these pests at bay.
Related Article: When Are Squirrels Most Active?