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Squirrel Control, Eradication and Extermination
Control by trapping is the most common method used for Squirrels. The trapping method is simple and effective, requiring some return visits to check the traps.
Poisons can be used in some cases, but whatever form of treatment is used it is recommended that the area be made squirrel-proof through the use of strong wire meshing.
About Squirrels
Squirrels are members of the family Sciuridae, consisting of small or medium-size rodents. The family includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, chipmunks, marmots (including woodchucks), flying squirrels, and prairie dogs.
Squirrels are indigenous to the Americas, Eurasia, and Africa, and have been introduced to Australia.
Squirrels live in almost every habitat from tropical rainforest to semiarid desert, avoiding only the high polar regions and the driest of deserts.
Features of the squirrel
They are predominantly herbivorous, subsisting on seeds and nuts, but many will eat insects and even small vertebrates. As their large eyes indicate, in general squirrels have an excellent sense of vision, which is especially important for tree-dwelling species.
They also have very versatile and sturdy claws for grasping and climbing. Many also have a good sense of touch, with vibrissae on their heads and limbs.
Most squirrels die in the first year of life. Adult squirrels can have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years in the wild. Some can survive 10 to 20 years in captivity.
Life Cycle Of The Squirrel
Breeding takes place in December to January and again in May to June.
If conditions are favourable, females reproduce 1 – 2 times a year producing 1 – 5 offspring per litter.
The average lifespan of female squirrels is 4 – 6 years while their male counterparts have a shorter life expectancy of 2 – 3 years.
Grey Squirrel Appearance
Larger than the UK’s native red squirrel, grey squirrels have grey fur with touches of russet-brown and white underparts.
Unlike the red squirrel, this species never has ear tufts, and the sexes are similar in appearance
Red Squirrel Appearance
Despite their name, red squirrels can have coats ranging from black to chestnut or light brown on their backs, with white undersides.
Red squirrels are known for their characteristically long ear tufts, and big fluffy tails.
