How Do to Get Rid of Squirrels in a Ceiling

It is difficult to get rid of squirrels that find their way into homes.

Squirrels often find their way into houses where they damage wood, insulation and wiring. Humane trapping is a good way to get squirrels out of the house.

Traps

Trapping is a sure way to get squirrels out of the attic. Buy humane traps that allow easy release at hardware stores. Check the trap twice daily, and release captured squirrels into a suitable area as soon as possible.

Exclusion

Once the squirrel is out of the attic, cover vents with covers or cages made of 1/2-inch hardware cloth. Check for damage that allows access and repair it before more squirrels find their way in. Make sure all openings are secure.

Access Routes

Cut back trees so that no limbs extend within 6 to 8 feet of the roof. Squirrels often use utility wires to access the attic. Slit a 2-to-3-inch diameter piece of PVC pipe so that you can slide it over utility wires where they enter the house. The pipe should be about 2 feet long. When the squirrel steps on it the pipe will rotate, causing the squirrel to lose its footing. Call utility companies before placing pipe over wires.

Poisons

There are federal, and in most cases, state regulations against using poisons on squirrels. Poisons put pets and other wildlife at risk.

References

• Penn State Cooperative Extension: Tree Squirrels
• Kansas State University Extension: Tree Squirrels
• Alabama Wildlife Damage Management: Squirrels