Achieving a long-term solution for keeping squirrels away from your home and garden involves more than a one-time fix. Consistent, integrated pest management practices are essential to discourage squirrels from returning. Here’s how you can focus on maintaining a long-term, sustainable approach to squirrel prevention:
- Implement a Regular Maintenance Routine
Inspect your home and yard periodically for any new gaps, cracks, or vulnerable areas. Squirrels can create or find new entry points over time, so sealing up these spots should be an ongoing task.
- Maintain Food-Free Zones
Keeping food sources minimized is critical for lasting results. Clear away fallen fruit, nuts, or seeds from the ground regularly and secure all trash and compost bins. Long-term squirrel management is much easier when food sources are strictly controlled.
- Trim and Maintain Trees and Shrubs
Regularly pruning trees and shrubs, especially near your home, will help prevent squirrels from accessing your roof or attic. Keeping branches at least 10 feet away from your home limits pathways for squirrels.
- Consider Long-Lasting Deterrents
Motion-activated sprinklers and ultrasonic repellents are effective when maintained and replaced as needed. Additionally, planting natural deterrent plants like daffodils, hyacinths, and peppermint around high-traffic squirrel areas can add ongoing layers of prevention.
- Establish an Annual or Seasonal Inspection with a Professional
A licensed wildlife control professional can inspect your property once or twice a year to identify any risks or areas that may need extra attention. Many professionals also offer integrated pest management programs, which provide regular monitoring and support.
- Adopt a Holistic, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach
Long-term pest management involves using multiple strategies at once: exclusion, deterrents, habitat modification, and monitoring. By adopting an IPM approach, you’re creating an environment that is consistently less attractive and accessible to squirrels, making it less likely for them to attempt re-entry.
Through these long-term pest management strategies, you can reduce the likelihood of squirrels returning. Managing your property for the long term will require attention to detail and ongoing prevention, but it can make a significant difference in keeping your home and yard squirrel-free for years to come.