Squirrels are a common problem in many households, particularly in the UK. They can cause damage to your property and create a nuisance by running around in your attic or loft. If you have a squirrel problem, it’s important to understand how to remove them safely and effectively. In this blog post, we will cover the legality of killing squirrels in the UK, the activity of squirrels at night, the signs of squirrels in your loft, and the use of poison for squirrel removal.
Is it Legal to Kill Squirrels in the UK?
The short answer is no, it is not legal to kill squirrels in the UK. Squirrels are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it illegal to kill, injure, or take them without a licence. This includes grey squirrels, which are considered an invasive species and are often targeted by pest control companies. If you suspect you have a squirrel problem in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company that will use humane methods to remove the squirrels without causing them harm.
Are Squirrels Active at Night?
Squirrels are typically active during the day, but they can also be active at night. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, when they are searching for food. Squirrels are also known to be active at night if they are disturbed or if they feel threatened. If you hear noises in your attic or loft at night, it’s possible that you have squirrels in your home.
What are the Signs of Squirrels in My Loft?
There are several signs that you may have squirrels in your loft. These include:
- Scratching or gnawing noises: Squirrels will make these noises as they move around in your attic or loft.
- Droppings: Squirrel droppings are small and elongated, and can be found in the corners of your attic or loft.
- Chewed wires: Squirrels are known to chew on wires, which can cause damage to your electrical system.
- Damage to insulation: Squirrels will often pull out insulation to make nests, which can cause damage to your attic or loft.
- Presence of nests: Squirrels will often build nests in attics or lofts, which can be made out of insulation or other materials.
Can I Poison Squirrels in My Loft?
No, it is not recommended to use poison to remove squirrels from your loft. Poison can be dangerous to both squirrels and humans, and it is illegal to use it to kill squirrels in the UK. Additionally, using poison can also cause the squirrels to die in your attic or loft, which can create a terrible smell and attract other pests. Instead, it is recommended to contact a professional pest control company that will use humane methods to remove the squirrels from your home.
Conclusion
Squirrels can be a nuisance, but it is important to remember that they are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to kill them. If you suspect you have a squirrel problem in your home, it is best to contact a professional pest control company that will use humane methods to remove the squirrels without causing them harm. Remember to look for signs of squirrels in your loft, such as scratching or gnawing noises, droppings, chewed wires, damage to insulation, and the presence of nests. And most importantly, using poison to remove squirrels is not recommended and illegal.
Why use FurBeGone Pest Control?
Pest controllers are specially trained to remove all types of pests and have access to chemicals and equipment which are highly toxic and not available to the general public through DIY stores.
FurBeGone Pest Control have been in business for over 20 years and as a family run business provide ourselves on providing professional courteous service as well as comprehensive information and follow up visits where required.
We offer 24 hour callout covering Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth and surrounding villages. We provide pest control for all animals and insects as-well as wildlife management, including maintenance contracts to deal with ongoing pest issues.
Contacting FurBeGone Pest Control
FurBeGone Pest Control offer a free survey before, and treatment is undertaken. We cover Stevenage, Letchworth, Hitchin, and surrounding villages and treat all types of pests including insects, rodents and wildlife. We are also bed bug specialists and provide 100% guarantee on our treatments.
Contact us through our website here or for 24-hour callout please call us on 01438 387005.
