Grey squirrels are not just a nuisance – they’re an invasive species wreaking havoc on homes and the local environment. As experts in pest control, PEST-SHIELD provides humane and effective squirrel control services across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, and the surrounding areas. From protecting your property to preventing future infestations, we’ve got you covered!
Grey squirrels are classified as vermin in the UK due to the significant damage they cause. Here’s why you need to act fast if you suspect an infestation:
Property Damage
Grey squirrels often enter homes through fascia boards, roof vents, or even tiny cracks. Once inside, they can cause extensive damage by gnawing on timbers, electrical wiring, and pipework, creating fire hazards. They also tear up loft insulation to build nests, further compromising your home’s safety and energy efficiency.
Environmental Impact
Grey squirrels are highly destructive to gardens, feasting on bulbs, plants, and tree bark. They’re also a threat to local wildlife, preying on bird eggs and young birds.
To ensure the most effective squirrel control service, please follow these preparation steps:
Leave Droppings & Damage for Inspection: Don’t clean up droppings or signs of damage before we arrive, as they help us assess the extent of the infestation.
Identify Squirrel Activity: Record where you’ve seen squirrels or heard activity, and ask your neighbours if they’ve noticed any signs of squirrels.
Avoid Feeding Wild Birds: Refrain from placing food out for wild birds or on compost heaps, as this can attract squirrels.
At PEST-SHIELD, we use humane Fenn traps to capture grey squirrels safely and effectively. Here’s how we handle squirrel infestations:
Our BPCA-trained technicians will strategically place traps in the most effective locations to capture the squirrels. Multiple visits may be required to ensure all squirrels are removed, as their movements can be unpredictable.
We adhere strictly to UK laws regarding squirrel removal. Grey squirrels cannot be released back into the wild, and any captured squirrels must be disposed of via burial or incineration.
Squirrels love to make nests in lofts, and there are a few telltale signs that you have an infestation:
Droppings: Spotting squirrel droppings in the loft.
Smell of Urine: Squirrels mark their territory with urine.
Gnawing: Evidence of squirrels gnawing on wood, cables, or pipes.
Scratching Noises: Sounds of movement, especially at dawn or dusk.
Nests: Squirrel nests made from insulation materials.
Increased Activity in the Garden: More squirrels in the garden could mean an infestation in the loft.
After we’ve removed the squirrels, it’s crucial to squirrel-proof your property to avoid a repeat issue. Here’s how we help:
Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your property for gaps, cracks, and entry points around pipes, fascia boards, and roof vents. We’ll seal these to keep squirrels out for good.
We recommend trimming back overgrown trees and bushes that could provide easy access to your roof or loft.
If your loft insulation has been contaminated by squirrel droppings or urine, we offer professional removal and biocidal treatment to disinfect the space. We also provide fresh insulation installation to improve energy efficiency.
Biocidal Spray Treatment: From £90 + VAT
Loft Insulation Replacement: Get a custom quote based on your loft size – call us today for a free consultation
Agile Climbers: Grey squirrels are skilled climbers, leaping up to 6 metres and easily accessing rooftops and lofts.
Breeding: They breed twice a year, with females producing between 3–9 young per litter. The young squirrels are weaned by 10 weeks.
Diet: Grey squirrels eat a wide range of foods, including nuts, seeds, bird eggs, and even young birds.
Natural Predators: Predators of grey squirrels include hawks, owls, and foxes.
When it comes to removing and preventing grey squirrel infestations, PEST-SHIELD is the trusted name in the North East. Here’s why:
✅ Humane Methods: We use humane trapping and removal techniques that comply with UK laws.
✅ Expert Technicians: Our BPCA-trained experts have the knowledge and tools to handle squirrel infestations swiftly and safely.
✅ Comprehensive Service: From trapping to proofing, we offer end-to-end solutions to ensure your home stays squirrel-free.
✅ Satisfaction Guarantee: We stand by our work. If the squirrels return, so do we—at no extra charge!
PEST-SHIELD provides expert pest control services in Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham—keeping homes and businesses safe and pest-free.
For fast, reliable, and safe pest control solutions. Call us on 0191 7166647 More services