Getting a flying squirrel out of your house can be tricky, but it’s definitely possible. Flyermedia.net can guide you through the process with expert advice and practical solutions, focusing on humane and effective methods to remove these nocturnal visitors. Discover how to safely evict these gliding critters and prevent future infestations with effective squirrel removal tactics. Learn about wildlife control, preventative measures, and exclusion techniques to keep your home critter-free.
1. What Attracts Flying Squirrels to My House?
Flying squirrels are attracted to your house for several reasons, primarily because it offers shelter and potential food sources. Understanding these attractants is the first step in preventing and addressing infestations.
- Warmth and Shelter: Attics, wall voids, and other secluded areas provide a safe haven from the elements, especially during colder months.
- Food Sources: Flying squirrels are opportunistic eaters. They may be attracted to bird feeders, gardens, and unsecured garbage cans.
- Easy Access: Gaps in the roof, cracks in the foundation, and openings around pipes and vents offer easy entry points.
- Nesting Sites: Attics filled with soft materials like insulation make ideal nesting sites for raising their young.
By identifying and eliminating these attractants, you can make your home less appealing to flying squirrels and reduce the likelihood of an infestation. Regularly inspect your home for potential entry points and food sources. According to the National Wildlife Federation, securing food sources and sealing entry points are crucial steps in wildlife management.
2. How Can I Identify a Flying Squirrel Infestation?
Identifying a flying squirrel infestation early can prevent significant damage to your home. Look out for the following signs:
- Nocturnal Noises: Flying squirrels are most active at night, so you’re likely to hear scurrying, scratching, or gnawing sounds in the attic or walls.
- Droppings: Flying squirrel droppings are small, dark, and often found in concentrated areas like attics and storage spaces.
- Urine Stains: Look for urine stains and a musky odor, particularly in enclosed areas.
- Damage to Property: Squirrels may chew on wires, insulation, and wooden structures, causing potential fire hazards and structural damage.
- Visual Sightings: Though nocturnal, you might occasionally spot a flying squirrel entering or exiting your home around dusk or dawn.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to take action promptly. Confirming the presence of flying squirrels allows you to implement targeted removal strategies. Early detection can save you from costly repairs and health hazards associated with their presence.
3. What Are the First Steps to Take When You Find a Flying Squirrel?
If you encounter a flying squirrel inside your home, remain calm and follow these initial steps to ensure a safe and humane outcome:
- Stay Calm: Panicking can scare the squirrel and make it harder to manage the situation. Move slowly and avoid sudden movements.
- Isolate the Area: Confine the squirrel to one room by closing doors and blocking off other exits.
- Open an Escape Route: Open a window or door in the room to provide the squirrel with an easy way to exit.
- Turn Off Lights: Flying squirrels are nocturnal and prefer dim or dark environments. Turning off the lights may encourage it to leave.
- Remove Pets: Keep pets away from the area to prevent them from attacking or further stressing the squirrel.
- Observe from a Distance: Monitor the squirrel from a safe distance to see if it will leave on its own.
These steps can help guide the squirrel out of your house without causing harm to it or yourself. Patience is key, as it may take some time for the squirrel to find its way out.
4. Can I Catch a Flying Squirrel by Hand?
Attempting to catch a flying squirrel by hand is generally not recommended due to the risks involved.
- Risk of Bites: Flying squirrels have sharp teeth and can bite if they feel threatened. A bite can transmit diseases and require medical attention.
- Risk of Scratches: Their claws are sharp and can cause scratches, which may also lead to infection.
- Stress to the Animal: Handling a wild animal can cause significant stress, which can be harmful to its health.
- Potential for Escape: Flying squirrels are quick and agile. You are unlikely to catch it by hand, and the attempt may cause it to hide in a more difficult-to-reach location.
Instead of trying to catch it by hand, focus on creating a safe and easy escape route for the squirrel. If you must handle it, wear thick gloves and protective clothing.
5. What Kind of Traps Can I Use to Catch a Flying Squirrel?
If guiding the flying squirrel out doesn’t work, trapping may be necessary. Here are the types of traps you can use:
- Live Traps: These are the most humane option. Live traps capture the squirrel without harming it, allowing you to relocate it safely.
- One-Way Exclusion Traps: These traps are placed over the entry point, allowing the squirrel to exit but preventing it from re-entering.
- Snap Traps: While effective, snap traps can be inhumane and are not recommended unless you are experienced and willing to euthanize the animal.
- Glue Traps: These are considered inhumane and should be avoided. They cause unnecessary suffering to the animal.
When using traps, always check local regulations regarding trapping and relocation of wildlife. Ensure the trap is appropriately sized and baited to attract flying squirrels.
6. What Bait Should I Use in the Trap?
Choosing the right bait is crucial for attracting flying squirrels to your trap. Here are some effective options:
- Peanut Butter: A universal bait that works well for many small mammals, including flying squirrels.
- Nuts and Seeds: Flying squirrels love nuts like walnuts, pecans, and sunflower seeds.
- Fruits: Small pieces of apple, grapes, or berries can also attract them.
- Commercial Baits: Some commercial baits are specifically designed to attract squirrels and other rodents.
- Birdseed: Since flying squirrels often visit bird feeders, birdseed can be an effective lure.
Place a small amount of bait in the trap, ensuring it’s placed in a way that encourages the squirrel to enter fully. Regularly check the trap to see if you’ve caught anything and to replace the bait as needed.
7. Where Should I Place the Trap?
The placement of the trap is essential for successful capture. Consider these locations:
- Near Entry Points: Place the trap close to where you suspect the squirrels are entering your home, such as near holes in the roof or walls.
- In the Attic: If the squirrels are primarily in the attic, set the trap in a well-traveled area.
- Along Walls: Squirrels often run along walls, so placing the trap against a wall can increase its effectiveness.
- On Elevated Surfaces: Flying squirrels are comfortable climbing, so placing the trap on a shelf or rafter can be beneficial.
- In Dark Areas: Since they prefer dark environments, place the trap in a dimly lit or shaded area.
Secure the trap to prevent it from tipping over, and check it regularly. According to wildlife control experts, monitoring the trap frequently increases the chances of a successful and humane capture.
8. How Do I Relocate a Trapped Flying Squirrel?
Once you’ve trapped a flying squirrel, relocating it safely and legally is important.
- Check Local Regulations: Before relocating, check local laws and regulations regarding wildlife relocation. Some areas may have restrictions.
- Choose a Suitable Location: Select a relocation site that is at least 5 miles away from your home to prevent the squirrel from returning. The area should be wooded and have a natural food source.
- Humane Release: Wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid direct contact. Open the trap slowly, allowing the squirrel to exit on its own.
- Avoid Residential Areas: Do not release the squirrel in residential areas, as it may become a nuisance to others.
- Consider the Weather: Avoid relocating squirrels during extreme weather conditions, as this can reduce their chances of survival.
Relocating a flying squirrel responsibly ensures its well-being and prevents future conflicts.
9. What Are Some Humane Ways to Deter Flying Squirrels?
Deterring flying squirrels humanely is a proactive approach to preventing infestations.
- Seal Entry Points: Seal all cracks and openings in your home’s foundation, roof, and walls. Use wire mesh to cover larger openings.
- Remove Food Sources: Secure garbage cans, remove bird feeders, and clean up fallen fruit in your yard.
- Trim Trees: Trim tree branches that overhang your roof to prevent squirrels from jumping onto your house.
- Use Repellents: Certain scents, like peppermint oil or mothballs, can deter squirrels. Place these in areas where squirrels are active.
- Install Motion-Activated Lights: These can startle nocturnal animals and discourage them from approaching your home.
- Ultrasonic Devices: Some ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to squirrels but inaudible to humans.
Implementing these humane deterrents can make your property less attractive to flying squirrels without causing them harm. According to research from the University of California, Davis, preventative measures are more effective than reactive solutions in wildlife management.
10. What Damage Can Flying Squirrels Cause in My House?
Flying squirrels can cause various types of damage, making it important to address infestations promptly.
- Chewing on Wires: This can create a fire hazard.
- Damaging Insulation: They may nest in insulation, reducing its effectiveness and increasing energy costs.
- Gnawing on Wood: They can damage wooden structures, including support beams and siding.
- Contaminating Insulation: Droppings and urine can contaminate insulation and create health hazards.
- Creating Nests: Nests can block vents and cause other structural issues.
- Staining Ceilings and Walls: Urine and droppings can cause unsightly stains.
The longer an infestation persists, the more extensive the damage can become. Regular inspections and prompt action are essential to minimize these risks.
11. How Do I Prevent Flying Squirrels From Returning After Removal?
Preventing flying squirrels from returning is crucial for long-term pest control.
- Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your home for new entry points or signs of squirrel activity.
- Maintain Your Yard: Keep your yard clean and free of fallen fruit and debris.
- Secure Outdoor Structures: Secure sheds, garages, and other outdoor structures that could provide shelter for squirrels.
- Professional Services: Consider hiring a wildlife control professional to inspect and fortify your home against future infestations.
Consistent preventative measures are key to keeping your home squirrel-free.
12. What Are the Legal Considerations for Dealing With Flying Squirrels?
Dealing with flying squirrels involves certain legal considerations that homeowners should be aware of.
- Wildlife Protection Laws: Many states have laws protecting wildlife, including flying squirrels. These laws may restrict trapping and relocation activities.
- Relocation Restrictions: Some areas prohibit the relocation of wildlife to prevent the spread of diseases or ecological imbalances.
- Permits: In certain cases, you may need a permit to trap or remove flying squirrels, especially if they are considered a protected species.
- Humane Treatment: All wildlife control activities must be conducted humanely to prevent unnecessary suffering to the animals.
Always check with your local wildlife agency or animal control office to understand the specific regulations in your area. Violating these laws can result in fines or other penalties.
13. When Should I Call a Professional for Flying Squirrel Removal?
Knowing when to seek professional help for flying squirrel removal can save you time, money, and potential hazards.
- Extensive Infestation: If you have a large or widespread infestation, professional assistance is recommended.
- Inaccessible Areas: If the squirrels are nesting in hard-to-reach areas, such as within walls or ceilings, professionals have the tools and expertise to access them safely.
- Unsuccessful DIY Attempts: If your attempts to trap and remove the squirrels have been unsuccessful, it’s time to call a professional.
- Structural Damage: If the squirrels have caused significant damage to your home, professional repairs may be necessary.
- Health Concerns: If you are concerned about the health risks associated with squirrel droppings or urine, professionals can safely remove and sanitize the affected areas.
- Legal Compliance: Professionals are familiar with local wildlife regulations and can ensure that all removal activities are conducted legally and humanely.
Hiring a qualified wildlife control service ensures that the job is done effectively and safely.
14. What Are the Costs Associated With Flying Squirrel Removal?
The costs associated with flying squirrel removal can vary depending on the extent of the infestation and the methods used.
- Inspection Fee: Many companies charge a fee for inspecting your home to assess the problem.
- Trapping and Removal: The cost of trapping and removing squirrels can range from $200 to $600, depending on the number of squirrels and the complexity of the job.
- Exclusion Services: Sealing entry points to prevent future infestations can cost between $300 and $1,000.
- Damage Repair: Repairing damage caused by squirrels, such as chewed wires or damaged insulation, can add significantly to the overall cost.
- Sanitation: Cleaning and sanitizing areas contaminated by squirrel droppings and urine can cost $100 to $500.
Obtaining quotes from multiple companies and understanding the services included can help you make an informed decision. While DIY methods may seem cheaper initially, professional services often provide a more thorough and long-lasting solution.
15. How Can I Choose the Right Wildlife Removal Company?
Choosing the right wildlife removal company is essential for effective and humane squirrel control.
- Check Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and insured to operate in your area.
- Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge their satisfaction.
- Ask About Their Methods: Inquire about the company’s trapping and removal methods to ensure they are humane and effective.
- Get a Written Estimate: Obtain a detailed written estimate outlining the services included and the associated costs.
- Inquire About Guarantees: Ask if the company offers any guarantees on their work, such as a guarantee that the squirrels will not return.
- Verify Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record and experienced technicians.
Selecting a reputable and experienced wildlife removal company can provide peace of mind and ensure that your squirrel problem is resolved effectively.
16. What Diseases Can Flying Squirrels Carry?
Flying squirrels can carry several diseases that pose a risk to humans and pets.
- Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that can cause flu-like symptoms and kidney damage.
- Salmonellosis: A bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
- Tularemia: A bacterial disease that can cause skin ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.
- Rabies: Though rare in squirrels, rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system.
- Parasites: Squirrels can carry parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites, which can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Avoid direct contact with flying squirrels and their droppings to minimize the risk of infection. If you suspect you have been exposed to a disease, seek medical attention promptly.
17. How Can I Safely Clean Up After a Flying Squirrel Infestation?
Cleaning up after a flying squirrel infestation requires precautions to protect yourself from potential health hazards.
- Wear Protective Gear: Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection to prevent exposure to droppings and urine.
- Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to ventilate the area before starting the cleanup process.
- Avoid Sweeping or Vacuuming: These methods can stir up dust and airborne particles. Instead, use a wet-dry vacuum with a HEPA filter or a damp cloth to remove droppings.
- Disinfect Surfaces: Disinfect all surfaces that may have been contaminated with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
- Dispose of Contaminated Materials: Place contaminated materials, such as insulation and droppings, in sealed plastic bags and dispose of them properly.
- Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after the cleanup is complete.
Proper cleanup is essential to eliminate health risks and prevent odors. If you are uncomfortable performing the cleanup yourself, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
18. What Are Some Natural Predators of Flying Squirrels?
Understanding the natural predators of flying squirrels can provide insights into their behavior and habitat preferences.
- Owls: Owls are primary predators of flying squirrels, using their keen hearing and night vision to locate them.
- Hawks: Hawks also prey on flying squirrels, especially during the day when squirrels are less active.
- Snakes: Snakes, such as rat snakes and black snakes, can enter attics and prey on squirrels.
- Foxes: Foxes are opportunistic predators that may catch squirrels on the ground.
- Cats and Dogs: Domestic cats and dogs can also prey on squirrels, especially if they have access to attics or other areas where squirrels are active.
The presence of these predators can influence where squirrels choose to nest and how they behave.
19. What is the Lifespan of a Flying Squirrel?
The lifespan of a flying squirrel varies depending on whether it lives in the wild or in captivity.
- In the Wild: Wild flying squirrels typically live for about 6 years.
- In Captivity: Captive flying squirrels can live for up to 10 years due to better access to food and veterinary care.
Factors such as predation, disease, and habitat conditions can affect the lifespan of wild squirrels.
20. What Role Do Flying Squirrels Play in the Ecosystem?
Flying squirrels play several important roles in the ecosystem.
- Seed Dispersal: They help disperse seeds by burying nuts and seeds for later consumption, contributing to forest regeneration.
- Fungal Spore Dispersal: They consume fungi and disperse their spores, which are essential for forest health.
- Prey Species: They serve as a food source for various predators, helping to maintain the balance of the food chain.
- Habitat Modification: Their nesting activities can create habitats for other species.
Understanding the ecological importance of flying squirrels can foster a greater appreciation for these animals and the need for humane and responsible wildlife management practices.
21. How Do Flying Squirrels “Fly” or Glide?
Flying squirrels don’t actually fly like birds, but they are adept gliders.
- Patagium: They have a membrane called a patagium that extends from their wrists to their ankles.
- Gliding: When they leap from a tree, they extend their limbs, stretching the patagium and allowing them to glide through the air.
- Tail as Rudder: Their flattened tail acts as a rudder, helping them steer and control their descent.
- Distance: They can glide distances of up to 150 feet.
- Landing: They use their claws to grip the bark of trees upon landing.
This gliding ability allows them to move quickly and efficiently through the forest canopy, avoiding predators and accessing food sources.
22. What is the Difference Between Northern and Southern Flying Squirrels?
There are two main species of flying squirrels in North America: the northern flying squirrel and the southern flying squirrel.
- Size: Northern flying squirrels are slightly larger than southern flying squirrels.
- Habitat: Northern flying squirrels are found in coniferous and mixed forests in the northern United States and Canada, while southern flying squirrels are found in deciduous forests in the eastern and southern United States.
- Color: Northern flying squirrels tend to be darker in color than southern flying squirrels.
- Diet: Both species have similar diets, but northern flying squirrels consume more fungi, while southern flying squirrels eat more nuts and seeds.
- Genetic Differences: Genetic studies have revealed distinct differences between the two species.
Identifying the specific species of flying squirrel in your area can help you tailor your removal and prevention strategies.
23. What Should I Do if I Find a Baby Flying Squirrel?
Finding a baby flying squirrel can be a delicate situation. Here’s how to handle it:
- Observe from a Distance: First, observe the baby squirrel from a distance to see if its mother is nearby. She may be out foraging and will return shortly.
- Check for Injuries: If the baby squirrel appears injured or is in immediate danger, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.
- Avoid Handling: Unless necessary, avoid handling the baby squirrel to prevent transferring your scent, which could cause the mother to reject it.
- Provide Warmth: If the baby squirrel is cold, place it in a cardboard box with a soft cloth and a heat source, such as a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel.
- Contact a Rehabilitator: Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. They can provide specialized care and ensure the squirrel is properly raised and released back into the wild.
Intervening only when necessary and seeking expert help ensures the best outcome for the baby squirrel.
24. What Are Some Myths About Flying Squirrels?
There are several common myths about flying squirrels that can lead to misunderstandings about their behavior and management.
- Myth: Flying squirrels can fly like birds.
- Fact: Flying squirrels glide using a membrane called a patagium.
- Myth: Flying squirrels are aggressive.
- Fact: Flying squirrels are generally shy and avoid humans. They may bite if they feel threatened.
- Myth: Flying squirrels are only found in forests.
- Fact: While they prefer forests, flying squirrels can also live in suburban and urban areas.
- Myth: Flying squirrels hibernate in the winter.
- Fact: Flying squirrels are active year-round, although they may be less active during extreme cold.
- Myth: All squirrels carry rabies.
- Fact: Rabies is rare in squirrels, but it’s still important to avoid direct contact.
Debunking these myths can help homeowners make informed decisions about managing flying squirrel infestations.
25. How Can I Make My Home Less Attractive to All Wildlife?
Making your home less attractive to all wildlife involves several strategies that can reduce the likelihood of infestations.
- Secure Garbage Cans: Use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent animals from accessing food scraps.
- Remove Pet Food: Do not leave pet food outside, as it can attract a variety of animals.
- Clean Up Birdseed: Clean up spilled birdseed regularly to prevent it from attracting rodents and squirrels.
- Trim Vegetation: Keep grass mowed and bushes trimmed to reduce hiding places for wildlife.
- Seal Compost Piles: Enclose compost piles to prevent animals from accessing food waste.
- Install Fencing: Install fencing around gardens and other vulnerable areas to deter wildlife.
- Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your home and property for signs of wildlife activity and address any issues promptly.
Taking these steps can create a less inviting environment for wildlife and help prevent infestations.
26. What is the Best Time of Year to Remove Flying Squirrels?
The best time of year to remove flying squirrels from your home is typically in the late summer or early fall.
- Avoid Breeding Season: Removing squirrels during the spring or early summer, which is their breeding season, can result in orphaned young.
- Ideal Timing: Late summer and early fall are ideal because the young squirrels are typically independent and able to survive on their own.
- Pre-Winter Preparation: Removing squirrels before winter also prevents them from seeking shelter in your home during the colder months.
- Humane Considerations: Removing squirrels during this time is generally more humane as it minimizes the risk of disturbing their breeding cycle.
Timing your removal efforts appropriately can help ensure a successful and humane outcome.
27. How Do I Know if Flying Squirrels Have Left My Attic?
Determining whether flying squirrels have left your attic requires careful observation and monitoring.
- Nighttime Observation: Listen for noises in the attic at night. If you no longer hear scurrying or scratching sounds, it’s a good sign that the squirrels have left.
- Check for Activity: Sprinkle flour or talcum powder near entry points and check for footprints the next morning. If there are no tracks, the squirrels may have left.
- Install a One-Way Door: Install a one-way door over the entry point and monitor it to see if any squirrels exit but cannot re-enter.
- Visual Inspection: If possible, conduct a visual inspection of the attic to look for signs of recent activity, such as fresh droppings or disturbed nesting materials.
- Professional Confirmation: Consider hiring a wildlife control professional to confirm that the squirrels have left and to identify and seal any remaining entry points.
Confirming that the squirrels have left before sealing entry points is crucial to prevent trapping them inside.
28. What Should I Do if a Flying Squirrel Gets Inside My Living Space?
If a flying squirrel gets inside your living space, follow these steps to safely guide it out:
- Stay Calm: Panicking can scare the squirrel and make it harder to manage the situation. Move slowly and avoid sudden movements.
- Isolate the Area: Confine the squirrel to one room by closing doors and blocking off other exits.
- Open an Escape Route: Open a window or door in the room to provide the squirrel with an easy way to exit.
- Turn Off Lights: Flying squirrels are nocturnal and prefer dim or dark environments. Turning off the lights may encourage it to leave.
- Remove Pets: Keep pets away from the area to prevent them from attacking or further stressing the squirrel.
- Observe from a Distance: Monitor the squirrel from a safe distance to see if it will leave on its own.
- Guide it Gently: If the squirrel doesn’t leave on its own, you can try to gently guide it towards the exit using a broom or towel.
- Avoid Direct Contact: Avoid touching the squirrel to prevent bites or scratches.
With patience and caution, you can guide the squirrel out of your living space without causing harm to it or yourself.
29. How Often Do Flying Squirrels Reproduce?
Understanding the reproductive habits of flying squirrels can help you better manage infestations.
- Breeding Season: Flying squirrels typically have two breeding seasons per year, one in the spring and one in the late summer or early fall.
- Gestation Period: The gestation period is approximately 40 days.
- Litter Size: They typically have 2 to 5 young per litter.
- Nesting Sites: They build nests in tree cavities, attics, and other sheltered locations.
- Weaning: The young are weaned at around 60 days old.
Knowing when flying squirrels are likely to be breeding can help you avoid disturbing their nests and ensure humane removal practices.
30. How Can I Inspect My Home for Flying Squirrel Entry Points?
Inspecting your home for flying squirrel entry points is a crucial step in preventing infestations.
- Check the Roof: Look for holes, cracks, and gaps around the roofline, vents, and chimneys.
- Inspect the Attic: Check for openings in the eaves, soffits, and fascia boards.
- Examine Walls: Look for cracks and holes in the siding and foundation.
- Check Around Pipes and Wires: Inspect the areas where pipes and wires enter the house for gaps.
- Look for Gnawing: Check for signs of gnawing around potential entry points.
- Use a Flashlight: Use a flashlight to illuminate dark areas and make it easier to spot openings.
- Inspect at Dusk: Inspect your home at dusk to see if you can spot squirrels entering or exiting.
Thoroughly inspecting your home can help you identify and seal potential entry points, preventing flying squirrels from gaining access.
Navigating a flying squirrel issue can be daunting, but Flyermedia.net is here to help. We offer comprehensive resources and expert advice on wildlife control and exclusion techniques. Whether you’re looking for humane removal strategies, preventative measures, or information on local regulations, we’ve got you covered. Don’t let flying squirrels take over your home – visit Flyermedia.net today and take the first step toward a pest-free environment. For immediate assistance, contact us at Address: 600 S Clyde Morris Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States. Phone: +1 (386) 226-6000, or visit our website: flyermedia.net. Your peace of mind is just a click away.
FAQ About Flying Squirrels
1. Are flying squirrels dangerous to humans?
While generally not aggressive, flying squirrels can bite or scratch if they feel threatened, posing a risk of disease transmission.
2. What do flying squirrels eat?
Flying squirrels have a varied diet including nuts, seeds, fruits, fungi, insects, and occasionally bird eggs.
3. Can flying squirrels cause structural damage to my home?
Yes, they can chew on wires, damage insulation, and gnaw on wood, leading to significant structural issues.
4. How do I seal entry points to prevent flying squirrels from entering?
Use wire mesh, caulk, and sealants to close gaps in the roof, walls, and foundation.
5. Is it legal to trap and relocate flying squirrels?
Check local wildlife regulations as some areas restrict or prohibit relocation.
6. What are the signs of a flying squirrel infestation in my attic?
Listen for nocturnal noises, look for droppings, and check for damage to insulation or wiring.
7. How can I deter flying squirrels from my property without harming them?
Remove food sources, trim tree branches, and use repellents like peppermint oil.
8. When is the best time of year to remove flying squirrels?
Late summer or early fall, after the young are independent but before winter sets in.
9. What diseases can flying squirrels carry?
They can carry leptospirosis, salmonellosis, tularemia, and parasites like fleas and ticks.
10. Should I hire a professional for flying squirrel removal?
Consider professional help for extensive infestations, inaccessible areas, or if DIY attempts are unsuccessful.