The Ultimate Guide to Trapping Flying Squirrels: Top Tips and Tricks to Safely and Effectively Remove Them from Your Property

Are you tired of the pitter-patter of tiny feet in your attic, only to discover that pesky flying squirrels have taken up residence? Don’t fret! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the top tips and tricks to safely and effectively remove these furry intruders from your property. With their graceful gliding abilities and acrobatic antics, flying squirrels may seem harmless. However, their presence can lead to costly damage, such as chewed electrical wires and insulation destruction. That’s where we come in. Whether you’re a homeowner or a wildlife removal professional, our ultimate guide has got you covered. We will delve into the behavior and habits of flying squirrels, equip you with the necessary tools and techniques for trapping, and provide valuable insights on prevention measures to keep them at bay. From understanding the best bait options to choosing the right traps, we will share expert advice and proven strategies to ensure a successful trapping experience. Our guide also emphasizes humane methods, prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of these remarkable creatures. Get ready to take back your property from flying squirrels with confidence. Let’s dive in and outsmart these furry aeronauts once and for all.

Understanding Flying Squirrels: Behavior and Habitat

Flying squirrels, often mistaken for their non-gliding counterparts, possess unique adaptations that set them apart in the animal kingdom. Unlike other squirrel species, flying squirrels have a patagium, a membrane stretching between their front and hind legs, which facilitates their gliding ability. This adaptation allows them to make extended leaps and glides of over 150 feet, a skill they use to navigate between trees, escape predators, and, occasionally, enter human dwellings.

Behavior

Flying squirrels are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. This behavior can make them particularly troublesome for homeowners, as the squirrels are active when humans are typically asleep. They use their acute sense of hearing and night vision to navigate in the dark, foraging for food, which includes nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and occasionally insects.

Their social behavior varies by species, with some preferring solitary lives, while others, like the Southern Flying Squirrel, exhibit communal behaviors, especially in colder months. This communal living can lead to multiple squirrels inhabiting an attic or crawlspace, compounding the potential for damage.

Habitat

In the wild, flying squirrels prefer wooded areas with dense canopies that facilitate their gliding. They nest in tree holes, abandoned bird nests, or nest boxes if available. However, as their natural habitat becomes more fragmented due to urbanization, these creatures are increasingly finding their way into human structures, seeking shelter and resources. Attics, barns, and other quiet, undisturbed areas of buildings can mimic their natural nesting sites, making them attractive to flying squirrels.

Adaptation to Urban Environments

As flying squirrels adapt to urban environments, they become more adept at exploiting human-made structures for shelter. This adaptability, while a testament to their resilience, poses significant challenges for homeowners and wildlife removal professionals. Understanding the behavior and habitat preferences of flying squirrels is crucial for effective management and removal. By recognizing the signs of an infestation early and taking proactive steps to secure potential entry points, homeowners can significantly reduce the likelihood of flying squirrels taking up residence.

Signs of Flying Squirrel Infestation

Identifying a flying squirrel infestation early can save homeowners from significant property damage and potential health risks. Flying squirrels are nocturnal, making them less visible than their diurnal relatives. However, they leave behind several telltale signs of their presence. Recognizing these signs is the first step in addressing an infestation effectively.

Noises in the Attic or Walls

One of the most common indicators of a flying squirrel infestation is the sound of activity in the attic, walls, or between floors, especially at night. These sounds may include scratching, scurrying, and the softer noises of gliding or jumping from surfaces within these hidden spaces. Unlike other squirrels, flying squirrels are active at night, so hearing these sounds after dark is a strong indication of their presence.

Droppings and Urine Stains

Flying squirrel droppings are similar in size to those of mice but may be found in larger quantities due to the social nature of these animals. Homeowners might notice small, oblong pellets accumulated in areas of activity. Additionally, urine stains or a distinct ammonia-like smell may be present in infested areas, indicating a long-term or sizable infestation.

Gnaw Marks and Damage

Flying squirrels, like all rodents, have continuously growing teeth that they need to wear down by gnawing on various materials. This behavior can lead to visible gnaw marks on wood, insulation, and even electrical wiring, which poses a significant fire hazard. Homeowners may also find insulation torn up for nesting materials.

Entry and Exit Points

Look for small holes or gaps in the exterior of your home, especially near the roofline, eaves, or vents, which could serve as entry points for flying squirrels. These openings may be accompanied by greasy rub marks, created by the oils in their fur as they repeatedly use these entrances.

Squirrel Sightings

While flying squirrels are nocturnal and less likely to be seen than other squirrels, an actual sighting, especially during dusk or dawn, can confirm their presence. They may be observed gliding between trees or seen near potential entry points to your home.

Nesting Material and Food Caches

Flying squirrels build nests from materials like shredded insulation, leaves, and bark. Finding such nesting materials in your attic or storage areas can indicate an infestation. Additionally, these squirrels may store food, such as nuts and seeds, in hidden caches around your home, which can attract other pests.

Unusual Pet Behavior

Pets are often more aware of their environment than humans and may notice the presence of flying squirrels before you do. If your pets are fixated on certain areas of your home, especially ceilings or walls, and exhibit unusual behavior such as barking, whining, or scratching at surfaces, they may be reacting to the sounds or smells of these hidden intruders.

Addressing the Infestation

Recognizing the signs of a flying squirrel infestation is crucial for timely intervention. Early detection allows homeowners to address the issue before significant damage occurs or the infestation becomes more severe. If you notice any of these signs, consider contacting a wildlife removal professional who can assess the situation, safely remove the squirrels, and advise on repairs and preventative measures to avoid future infestations. Remember, flying squirrels are protected in some areas, so it’s important to handle any infestation humanely and in accordance with local wildlife laws.

The Dangers of Flying Squirrels in Your Property

Flying squirrels, with their nocturnal habits and gliding prowess, may seem like harmless and even charming visitors. However, their presence in your home can lead to several significant issues, ranging from property damage to health risks. Understanding these dangers is crucial for homeowners to take prompt action against an infestation.

Electrical Damage

One of the most serious risks associated with flying squirrels living in your property is the damage they can cause to electrical wiring. Like many rodents, flying squirrels have a habit of gnawing on wires, which can strip away protective insulation. This behavior not only leads to costly repairs but also poses a serious fire hazard, as exposed wires can short circuit and potentially ignite surrounding materials.

Structural Damage

Flying squirrels can cause considerable damage to the structure of your home. Their nesting habits often involve burrowing into insulation, which can compromise your home’s thermal efficiency, leading to increased heating and cooling costs. Additionally, they may gnaw on wooden beams and other structural components, weakening the integrity of your property over time.

Health Risks

The presence of flying squirrels in a home also poses several health risks. Their droppings, urine, and nesting materials can contribute to poor indoor air quality and may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Moreover, squirrels can carry parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites, which can be transferred to pets and humans. There’s also a risk of diseases, as squirrels are capable of carrying pathogens that cause illnesses such as leptospirosis and salmonellosis, though direct transmission to humans is rare.

Contamination of Food Sources

Flying squirrels, seeking food, may contaminate human and pet food sources. They can chew through packaging to access food, leaving behind droppings and urine, which can contaminate your food supply and kitchen surfaces with harmful bacteria.

Noise Pollution

The nocturnal activities of flying squirrels can lead to significant noise pollution within a home. The sounds of scurrying, scratching, and gnawing in attics or walls during the night can disrupt sleep and lead to increased stress and fatigue for the inhabitants.

Attracting Other Pests

The nesting materials and food caches of flying squirrels can attract other pests, including insects and rodents, further exacerbating pest control issues within a home. The presence of additional pests can lead to further damage and health risks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Given the dangers posed by flying squirrels, it’s important for homeowners to take proactive steps to mitigate these risks. This includes regular inspections of the property to identify and seal potential entry points, proper storage of food to avoid attracting squirrels, and the installation of barriers to prevent access to sensitive areas such as attics and crawl spaces. If an infestation is suspected, consulting with a professional wildlife removal service is advisable to ensure the humane and effective removal of the squirrels and to implement strategies to prevent future infestations.

In summary, while flying squirrels may not initially seem like a significant threat, their presence in your property can lead to serious consequences. By understanding these risks and taking appropriate action, homeowners can protect their property, health, and well-being from the dangers associated with flying squirrel infestations.

Trapping vs. Other Methods of Removal: Pros and Cons

When dealing with flying squirrel infestations, homeowners and wildlife professionals have several methods at their disposal. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right approach depends on various factors, including the severity of the infestation, the location of the squirrels, and the goal of removal (e.g., relocation vs. exclusion). Here, we delve into the pros and cons of trapping compared to other removal methods to help you make an informed decision.

Trapping

Pros:

• Humane: When done correctly, trapping can be a humane way to capture and relocate flying squirrels without causing them harm.
• Targeted: Trapping allows for the specific removal of the animals causing problems, minimizing impact on non-target wildlife.
• Effective: With the right traps and bait, trapping can be highly effective in removing flying squirrels from your property.
• Insightful: Trapping provides insight into the size of the infestation, as you can count the number of squirrels caught.

Cons:

• Time-consuming: Successful trapping requires monitoring and maintenance of traps, which can be time-consuming.
• Requires Knowledge: To be effective, homeowners must understand flying squirrel behavior, including their diet and habits, to properly set and bait traps.
• Potential for Injury: If not handled properly, traps can injure squirrels or the person setting them. It’s important to use traps designed to minimize harm and to handle them with care.

Other Methods of Removal

Exclusion:

Pros:

• Long-term Solution: Properly implemented, exclusion methods can provide a permanent solution by preventing flying squirrels from entering the home in the first place.
• Non-lethal: Exclusion is a humane approach that doesn’t harm the squirrels, focusing instead on keeping them out.
• Comprehensive: Addresses the root cause of infestation by sealing entry points, which can also deter other pests.

Cons:

• Initial Cost: The upfront cost of professional exclusion services and materials can be higher than trapping.
• Complexity: Identifying and sealing all potential entry points requires thorough inspection and can be challenging in complex structures.

Repellents and Ultrasonic Devices:

Pros:

• Ease of Use: These methods are generally easy to deploy and require minimal maintenance.
• Safety: Chemical repellents and ultrasonic devices pose little to no risk of physical harm to humans or pets when used according to instructions.

Cons:

• Variable Effectiveness: The effectiveness of repellents and ultrasonic devices is highly variable and often considered less reliable than physical removal or exclusion.
• Temporary Solution: These methods may only offer a temporary deterrent, as squirrels can become habituated to the deterrents or find ways around them.

Poisons:

Pros:

• Potentially Quick: When effective, poisons can reduce squirrel populations quickly.

Cons:

• Inhumane: Poisons can cause suffering and a slow death for squirrels.
• Risk to Non-target Species: There’s a significant risk of poisoning pets, children, and non-target wildlife.
• Legal and Ethical Issues: Many regions have regulations against the use of poisons for wildlife control, and there are ethical considerations regarding animal welfare.

In conclusion, while trapping offers a humane and effective method for removing flying squirrels, it’s important to consider all options and their implications. Exclusion remains the most sustainable long-term solution, addressing the problem at its source by preventing access. Repellents and ultrasonic devices may serve as supplementary measures but should not be relied upon as sole solutions. Poisons, due to their ethical and safety concerns, are generally discouraged. Ultimately, the best approach may involve a combination of methods, tailored to the specific situation and conducted with a focus on humane and ethical treatment of wildlife.

Essential Tools and Supplies for Trapping Flying Squirrels

Successfully trapping flying squirrels requires not just skill and patience but also the right set of tools and supplies. Having the appropriate equipment can make the difference between a successful capture and a futile attempt. Here’s a detailed look at the essential tools and supplies needed for trapping flying squirrels, ensuring humane capture and handling.

Live Traps

• Specifics: Choose live traps specifically designed for small mammals. These traps should be sensitive enough to trigger with the light weight of a flying squirrel but sturdy enough to safely contain them without injury.
• Sizes: A variety of sizes may be needed depending on the entry points and the spaces available for setting the traps. Generally, traps sized around 10″x3″x3″ to 24″x7″x7″ are suitable for flying squirrels.

Protective Gloves

• Material: Heavy-duty gloves, preferably made of leather or a similar durable material, are essential for handling traps with squirrels. They protect against bites and scratches, ensuring safe handling for both the animal and the trapper.
• Use: Always wear gloves when checking and transporting traps to minimize stress for the squirrel and to protect yourself from potential zoonotic diseases.

Bait

• Types: High-attractant foods such as unsalted peanuts, sunflower seeds, slices of fruit, or commercial rodent bait can be effective. Flying squirrels have a sweet tooth, so items with a sweet scent can be particularly appealing.
• Storage: Keep bait fresh and in sealed containers to maintain its attractiveness and prevent it from spoiling or attracting other animals before use.

Flashlight or Headlamp

• Purpose: Since flying squirrels are nocturnal, a high-quality flashlight or headlamp is crucial for inspecting traps after dark, ensuring humane treatment by avoiding leaving squirrels in traps for extended periods.
• Features: Look for durable, weather-resistant models with adjustable brightness settings to navigate safely and efficiently in dark spaces.

Baiting Tools

• Utensils: Small utensils like tweezers or long-handled spoons can be useful for placing bait precisely within traps, especially if the trap design makes direct placement challenging.
• Containers: Small containers or mesh bags can help secure bait within the trap, making it more difficult for squirrels to access without triggering the trap.

Trap Covers

• Function: Covers can help calm trapped squirrels by blocking visual stimuli. Using a breathable material like burlap or a light towel ensures adequate air circulation while reducing stress for the animal.
• Selection: Ensure the cover is large enough to cover the entire trap but light enough to not pose a risk of suffocation.

Transportation Vehicle

• Requirements: A vehicle suitable for safely transporting traps to the release site. The vehicle should have a flat, stable surface for placing traps and enough ventilation if traps are placed inside the vehicle.
• Preparation: Line the vehicle’s surface with newspapers or a tarp to catch any droppings or urine and to make cleanup easier.

Release Site Information

• Research: Before trapping begins, identify appropriate release sites that are far enough from residential areas to discourage return but within the natural habitat range of flying squirrels.
• Regulations: Check local wildlife regulations to ensure compliance with legal requirements for the release of trapped animals.

Having these essential tools and supplies on hand before beginning the trapping process is crucial for the humane and effective removal of flying squirrels. Proper preparation not only facilitates a smoother trapping experience but also ensures the safety and well-being of both the trapper and the squirrels.

Setting Up a Flying Squirrel Trap: Step-by-Step Guide

Successfully trapping flying squirrels requires a strategic approach, from selecting the right trap to placing and baiting it effectively. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to setting up a flying squirrel trap, ensuring humane capture and increasing the likelihood of success.

Step 1: Choose the Right Trap

• Type: Use a live-catch trap, such as a small to medium-sized cage trap, designed for small mammals. These traps should be sturdy and have a sensitive trigger to ensure that the light weight of a flying squirrel can activate it.
• Size: The trap should be large enough to comfortably hold the squirrel but not so large that it’s cumbersome to place in tight spaces where squirrels may travel.

Step 2: Select the Trap Location

• Activity Signs: Place the trap near areas of known activity. Look for signs like droppings, gnaw marks, or entry points into the home.
• Travel Paths: Flying squirrels often use specific routes to enter and exit buildings. Placing traps along these paths increases capture chances.
• Safety: Ensure the trap is placed in a location where it won’t pose a hazard to other wildlife, pets, or humans.

Step 3: Bait the Trap

• Attractive Bait: Use bait that is highly attractive to flying squirrels, such as unsalted peanuts, sunflower seeds, or pieces of fruit.
• Placement: Place the bait at the end of the trap to ensure the squirrel fully enters, triggering the door to close. Bait can also be placed around the entrance to lure the squirrel inside.

Step 4: Set the Trap

• Mechanism Check: Before setting the trap, ensure the trigger mechanism is sensitive and working properly. The door should close quickly and securely once the trigger is activated.
• Safety: When setting the trap, be cautious to keep your fingers away from the trap door to avoid injury.

Step 5: Monitor the Trap

• Regular Checks: Check the trap at least twice a day, in the morning and evening. This is crucial to ensure any captured squirrels are not left in the trap for too long, which can cause stress or harm.
• Weather Considerations: Avoid setting traps in extreme weather conditions. Flying squirrels are sensitive to heat and cold, and exposure can be detrimental to their health.

Step 6: Handling and Release

• Safety Gear: When handling the trap with a squirrel inside, wear gloves to protect yourself from bites and scratches.
• Calm Environment: Keep the trapped squirrel in a quiet, calm environment to minimize stress before release.
• Release Location: Choose a release location far from residential areas but within the squirrel’s natural habitat. Ensure the release site has ample trees and is away from busy roads.

Step 7: Post-Release

• Trap Maintenance: After release, clean and disinfect the trap before storing or reusing it. This helps prevent the spread of diseases.
• Entry Point Sealing: After removing the squirrels, seal any entry points they used to access your home to prevent future infestations.

Additional Tips

• Multiple Traps: In cases of severe infestation, consider setting up multiple traps to increase the chances of capturing all the squirrels.
• Patience and Persistence: Trapping flying squirrels can require patience. If you don’t succeed initially, consider adjusting the trap location, bait, or both.

By following these steps, you can set up a flying squirrel trap effectively, ensuring humane capture and contributing to the resolution of infestations in a responsible manner. Remember, the goal is to remove the squirrels safely and prevent their return, protecting both your home and the wildlife.

Baiting Techniques for Attracting Flying Squirrels

Effective baiting is a critical component of trapping flying squirrels. These nimble creatures have a varied diet, but they show particular preference for certain types of food, making the choice of bait crucial for successful trapping. Here are some expert tips and strategies for baiting flying squirrels:

1. Understand Their Diet: Flying squirrels are primarily omnivores, with a diet that includes nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, and insects. In urban or suburban settings, they may also be attracted to birdseed, suet, and peanut butter. Knowing this can help you select the most appealing bait.

2. Selecting the Right Bait: The most effective baits for flying squirrels include unsalted peanuts, sunflower seeds, almond extract on bread, and fruits such as apples or bananas. These foods are not only attractive to flying squirrels but also provide a strong scent to lure them into the trap.

3. Bait Placement: Proper placement of the bait within the trap is crucial. It should be placed far enough from the trap entrance to ensure the squirrel fully enters the trap, triggering the mechanism. For traps with a pan trigger, placing the bait directly on the trigger or hanging it above can be effective. For cage traps, securing the bait at the end of the trap ensures the squirrel has to step on the trigger plate to reach it.

4. Bait Protection: To prevent bait theft by other animals and to make the bait last longer, consider enclosing it in a mesh bag or a small container with holes. This method ensures that the scent of the bait disperses while making it difficult for non-target animals to steal the bait without entering the trap.

5. Regularly Refresh Bait: Bait should be fresh and appealing. Check and replace bait every 24-48 hours to maintain its effectiveness, especially in adverse weather conditions that can spoil or wash away the bait.

6. Trial and Error: Sometimes, flying squirrels may be wary of new objects in their environment, including traps. If initial baiting efforts are unsuccessful, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of bait or adjust the placement within the trap. Persistence and adaptation are key to successful trapping.

Checking and Maintaining Traps for Optimal Results

Regular checking and maintenance of traps are crucial steps in the humane trapping of flying squirrels. These practices ensure the well-being of the trapped animals, maintain the effectiveness of the traps, and contribute to the overall success of the trapping effort. Here’s a detailed guide on how to check and maintain your traps for optimal results.

Checking Traps

• Frequency: Traps should be checked at least twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Since flying squirrels are nocturnal, checking in the early morning can ensure that any animal caught overnight is not left in the trap for too long.
• Timeliness: Prompt checking minimizes the stress on the trapped animal and reduces the risk of harm from predators, exposure, or dehydration.
• Observation: When checking traps, observe from a distance first to avoid startling the trapped animal. Approach quietly and calmly to reduce stress.

Handling Trapped Animals

• Protection: Always wear protective gloves when handling traps with animals to prevent bites and scratches.
• Covering: Gently cover the trap with a breathable material to calm the squirrel and make transportation easier.
• Transportation: Transport the trapped animal to the release site as soon as possible to minimize stress and discomfort.

Trap Maintenance

• Cleaning: After each use, clean the trap with a mild disinfectant to remove any droppings, urine, or bait residues. This prevents the spread of diseases and removes odors that may deter other squirrels from entering the trap.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect traps for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, bent wires, or malfunctioning doors. Ensure the trigger mechanism is sensitive and works smoothly.
• Lubrication: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to moving parts if necessary to ensure smooth operation. Avoid oil-based products that can leave strong smells.
• Storage: Store traps in a dry, sheltered place to prevent rust and damage when not in use. Proper storage extends the life of the trap and ensures it’s ready for use when needed.

Bait Refreshment

• Freshness: Replace bait regularly to keep it fresh and appealing. Stale or spoiled bait is less attractive to flying squirrels and may reduce trap success.
• Variety: If initial bait choices are not successful, try different types of bait. Observing the natural food sources in the area can provide clues to more effective bait options.

Record Keeping

• Documentation: Keep a record of trap locations, check times, and the outcome of each trapping attempt. This information can help identify patterns, such as which locations are most effective, and improve future trapping efforts.
• Behavioral Notes: Note any observed behaviors of trapped animals before release. This can provide insights into flying squirrel behavior that may inform adjustments to trapping strategies.

Ethical Considerations

• Humane Treatment: Always prioritize the humane treatment of trapped animals. Ensure traps are checked regularly to prevent unnecessary suffering.
• Legal Compliance: Familiarize yourself with local wildlife laws and regulations regarding the trapping and relocation of flying squirrels. Compliance ensures ethical and legal trapping practices.

By adhering to these guidelines for checking and maintaining traps, you can achieve optimal results in your efforts to humanely trap and relocate flying squirrels. Regular maintenance not only ensures the effectiveness and longevity of your traps but also supports the welfare of the animals involved, aligning with best practices in wildlife management and ethical treatment.

Safely Releasing Trapped Flying Squirrels

Releasing trapped flying squirrels back into the wild requires careful consideration to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, as well as adherence to local wildlife regulations. The process involves more than just opening the trap door; it necessitates planning, understanding the squirrels’ needs, and choosing an appropriate release site. Here’s how to safely release trapped flying squirrels:

Choosing the Right Time and Location

• Timing: Release flying squirrels during the late afternoon or early evening. This timing gives them enough light to find a new home before it gets completely dark, aligning with their nocturnal nature.
• Location: Select a release site that is away from urban areas but within the squirrels’ natural habitat range. Ideal locations are wooded areas with plenty of trees for shelter and sources of water nearby. Ensure the site is at least a few miles away from your property to prevent the squirrels from returning.
• Legal Compliance: Check local regulations to identify any restrictions or requirements for releasing wildlife. Some areas may have designated release areas or require permission to release animals on public land.

Preparing for Release

• Acclimatization: Before opening the trap, allow the squirrel some time to acclimate to the surroundings. Place the trap on the ground in a safe, quiet area near the release site and wait a few minutes.
• Safety Measures: Wear protective gloves and ensure the trap is positioned in a way that allows the squirrel to exit safely without direct contact with humans. Stand behind the trap when opening it to provide a clear, unobstructed path for the squirrel to leave.

Releasing the Squirrel

• Gentle Approach: Open the trap door gently to avoid startling the squirrel. Some squirrels may dash out immediately, while others may take a few moments to exit. Be patient and give the animal time to leave on its own.
• Observation: After the squirrel has left the trap, observe from a distance to ensure it safely climbs a tree or finds shelter. Do not attempt to chase or guide the squirrel, as this can cause stress or injury.

After Release

• Trap Maintenance: Once the squirrel has been successfully released, clean and disinfect the trap before storing it or preparing it for another use. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and removes any scents that could deter future captures.
• Habitat Enhancement: Consider enhancing the release site with squirrel-friendly features, such as installing nest boxes in trees if permitted. This can provide immediate shelter for released squirrels and support their adaptation to the new environment.
• Monitoring: If possible, and without causing stress to the released squirrels, monitor the release area from a distance for a short period to ensure the squirrel does not return to the trap or exhibit signs of distress.

Ethical Considerations

• Humane Treatment: Always handle trapped and released wildlife with care and respect. The goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal throughout the process.
• Impact on Ecosystem: Choose a release site where the addition of a flying squirrel will not disrupt the existing ecosystem. Overpopulating an area with released animals can lead to competition for resources and other unintended ecological impacts.

Safely releasing trapped flying squirrels is a critical component of humane wildlife management. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the squirrels are given the best chance to thrive in their natural habitat, while also minimizing the chances of them returning to human-occupied spaces.

Preventing Future Flying Squirrel Infestations: Tips for Property Maintenance and Exclusion Methods

Once you’ve successfully trapped and removed flying squirrels from your property, the next step is to ensure they don’t return. Here are comprehensive strategies for preventing future infestations:

1. Inspect and Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior, looking for any cracks, holes, or gaps that could serve as entry points for flying squirrels. Pay special attention to areas around the roof, eaves, and vents. Seal these openings with durable materials such as metal flashing, hardware cloth, or specially designed exclusion products.

2. Trim Tree Branches: Flying squirrels can glide into your property from nearby trees. Trim any branches that hang over your roof or are close to the sides of your house to make it more difficult for them to access your home.

3. Secure Food Sources: Remove outdoor food sources that may attract flying squirrels, such as unsecured garbage bins, pet food, and bird feeders. Consider using squirrel-proof bird feeders or placing them far from the house.

4. Install Chimney Caps and Vent Covers: Ensure that all exterior vents, including those for the attic, dryer, and chimney, are covered with secure screens or caps to prevent entry.

5. Use Motion-Activated Lights or Ultrasonic Deterrents: Flying squirrels are nocturnal. Installing motion-activated lights around your property can deter them from approaching. Ultrasonic deterrents, though variable in effectiveness, can also be used as a supplementary measure.

6. Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect your property for signs of flying squirrel activity or potential new entry points. Promptly addressing these issues can prevent future infestations.

7. Professional Consultation: If you’re unsure about how to secure your home against flying squirrels, consider consulting a wildlife exclusion professional. They can offer personalized advice and services to ensure your property remains squirrel-free.

Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of future flying squirrel infestations, protecting your property and ensuring the safety and well-being of both your family and local wildlife.

Professional Flying Squirrel Trapping

Are you dealing with a flying squirrel infestation and need professional help? Look no further than Freedom Wildlife Solutions. Based out of Clayton, NC, and servicing the Raleigh-Durham area, we offer professional flying squirrel trapping and removal services. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to safely and effectively remove flying squirrels from your property, ensuring your home remains safe and secure. Don’t let flying squirrels take over your property. Contact Freedom Wildlife Solutions today and take the first step towards a squirrel-free home.