Squirrels are clever and persistent, but there are a few things they can’t stand. By understanding what repels them, you can create an environment that discourages them from nesting or foraging around your home. From strong scents to visual deterrents, this article explores the most effective ways to keep squirrels at bay without using harmful chemicals.
Understanding What Repels Squirrels
Squirrels have highly developed senses, especially when it comes to smell and sight, which can be used to your advantage when looking to deter them. One of the most effective natural repellents is peppermint oil. The strong scent of peppermint is not only unpleasant to squirrels, but it also disrupts their sense of smell, which they rely on for foraging and finding food. Simply soaking cotton balls with peppermint oil and placing them around your attic, garden, or near entry points can quickly send squirrels scurrying elsewhere.
Another powerful scent that squirrels dislike is vinegar. The acidic, pungent smell of vinegar is particularly effective when sprayed around areas where squirrels tend to gather or nest. It’s easy to create a vinegar-based spray by mixing equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Use this solution on areas like your garden, shed, or the perimeter of your home to create an unwelcoming environment. The strong odor will deter squirrels from lingering or nesting in these spaces.
Predator urine, such as that from foxes or coyotes, is also a potent deterrent. The scent of a predator’s urine signals to squirrels that there is danger nearby. Squirrels are naturally fearful of predators and will avoid areas that they associate with these smells. While it might seem unusual, predator urine can be found in many gardening and wildlife supply stores as a natural deterrent. By spreading this scent around your property, you can keep squirrels at a safe distance.
Plants and Substances Squirrels Avoid
One of the easiest ways to deter squirrels from your garden is by planting species they find unappealing. For example, daffodils and alliums are known to repel squirrels due to their strong scent and taste. These plants contain compounds that make them less desirable to squirrels, making them a great choice for adding beauty to your garden while keeping pests at bay. Incorporating these plants around your yard or near entry points can help create a natural barrier.
Another effective strategy is to use substances that squirrels can’t stand, like cayenne pepper. The spicy heat from cayenne pepper irritates squirrels’ noses and mouths, discouraging them from chewing on plants or entering spaces where it’s applied. You can sprinkle cayenne pepper directly on plants or mix it with water to create a spray for areas like garden beds, bird feeders, or the perimeter of your home. Just be sure to reapply it after rain or heavy winds.
Garlic is also a substance squirrels dislike due to its pungent odor. Similar to vinegar, garlic’s strong scent can be used as a natural repellent. Crushed garlic cloves or garlic powder can be scattered around your garden or applied to areas where squirrels tend to frequent. This method is effective for both repelling squirrels and other pests, offering a simple and eco-friendly solution to keeping your property squirrel-free.
Physical Barriers Squirrels Don’t Like
While scents and substances can deter squirrels, physical barriers provide a more permanent solution. By making your property harder to access, you can effectively keep squirrels away without having to constantly reapply deterrents. Here are some physical barriers that squirrels hate.
Related: How do you get squirrels to move out?
Netting and Fencing
One of the most effective ways to keep squirrels out of your garden or attic is by using netting or fencing. Squirrels are agile climbers, but a sturdy mesh or wire fence with small openings will make it difficult for them to pass through. To maximize effectiveness, the fence should be at least 4 feet high and buried a few inches into the ground to prevent squirrels from burrowing underneath it. Additionally, a fence with a smooth surface can make climbing impossible, making it a great way to protect your garden or yard.
In areas where squirrels are trying to access your home, such as around windows or vents, installing wire mesh or netting can act as a barrier to keep them out. The mesh should have small enough holes to prevent squirrels from squeezing through, and it can be placed over vents, chimneys, or roof gaps. This method is both affordable and long-lasting, providing a clear physical deterrent that keeps squirrels from finding easy access points.
Squirrel Baffles
Squirrel baffles are devices designed to block squirrels from climbing poles, trees, or other structures. These baffles are typically placed on bird feeder poles or along tree branches to prevent squirrels from reaching the feeder or nesting area. Made from smooth, rounded materials like metal or plastic, baffles create a slippery surface that squirrels can’t grip, forcing them to give up on climbing altogether. They are particularly useful for protecting bird feeders or garden structures, as they prevent squirrels from raiding your supplies.
For homeowners dealing with squirrels trying to enter attics or roofs, placing a baffle on tree branches near your home can also help. If squirrels can’t leap from nearby branches to your roof, they are less likely to invade your attic. By adding a few baffles to the trees around your house, you can significantly reduce the chances of squirrels finding their way inside.
Combining Methods for Maximum Effectiveness
To achieve the best results in keeping squirrels away, it’s crucial to combine different methods. Relying solely on one approach, such as scent deterrents or physical barriers, may not be enough to fully address the issue. By using a multi-layered strategy, you can create a comprehensive environment that squirrels find less appealing and harder to navigate. For instance, combining peppermint oil with netting around your garden or attic can effectively block squirrels from entering while making the area smell unwelcoming.
In addition to using deterrents and barriers, consider modifying your property to make it less attractive to squirrels. Remove easily accessible food sources, such as birdseed or fallen fruit, and trim back trees or branches that squirrels can use to access your roof. By removing their food sources and climbing paths, you reduce the likelihood that squirrels will settle in your space. Pairing these environmental changes with scents and physical barriers provides a well-rounded approach to squirrel prevention.
Finally, consistency is key when using multiple deterrents. Regularly check and maintain your barriers, reapply scent repellents as needed, and ensure that there are no new entry points. Squirrels are persistent, so staying proactive with your approach will ensure they don’t find a way back in. By combining these methods, you’ll have a more effective and long-lasting solution to keep squirrels away.
Contact AAAC Wildlife Removal Phoenix
If you’ve tried everything and squirrels are still causing trouble around your home, it’s time to bring in the experts. AAAC Wildlife Removal Phoenix specializes in humane, professional squirrel removal services that address your specific needs. Whether it’s securing entry points or safely removing squirrels from your attic, our team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle the job quickly and efficiently. Don’t let squirrels take over—contact AAAC Wildlife Removal Phoenix today for a comprehensive solution to your wildlife concerns.
