Exploring the Ozarks Outdoors: freshare.net

Squirrels in Your Attic?  Try A Little Peanut Butter

First posted on 07-05-2007

While outdoors they can be cute, a family of tree squirrels scampering through your attic late at night isn’t what you want to hear.

While they provide enjoyment for wildlife-lovers, it’s not unusual for tree squirrels to become a nuisance in urban areas, said Bob Pierce, University of Missouri Extension fish and wildlife specialist.

Missouri is home to three species of tree squirrels. The fox squirrel and gray squirrel are both popular game animals. The southern flying squirrel, the smallest of the tree species, inhabits some areas of the state.

“Occasionally, fox or gray squirrels enter attics and chimneys and cause damage to electrical wiring, siding or insulation,” he said.

They can damage home gardens and ornamentals, as well as sweet corn, tomatoes or flower bulbs planted in urban gardens. As any bird-lover knows, squirrels also can become a nuisance raiding bird feeders.

Preventive maintenance is the best defense against unwelcome squirrels and other wildlife. Make your home squirrel-proof by inspecting for potential entrances and make any needed repairs, he said.

Cover the inside of attic vents and similar openings with half-inch hardware cloth. Repair rotten boards along soffits or eaves. Replace any broken windows, cap chimneys and fill openings made for utility pipes and electrical wiring.

“If you find a squirrel in your attic or other part of the house, don’t try to chase it out. Open a window or door, and allow the squirrel to find its way out,” he said.

You can try baiting a live trap or cage trap with peanut butter or nutmeats.

Seedling and young trees can be protected from squirrels by placing an expandable protective wrap around their trunks up to feet above the ground.

Trimming overhanging tree branches can also help prevent access to your roof and attic, he said.

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