Did you know that squirrels have two mating seasons? Indeed, these are busy creatures. Whether they are burying nuts, building nests, raising their kits, chasing after each other, or raiding gardens, squirrels always seem like they have work to do. Their two mating seasons are especially hectic periods. The following will describe squirrel behaviour during these mating seasons and what you can do to protect your home from an invasion. If you’re worried about the squirrels in your area, give us a call. We offer humane solutions to all wildlife problems, including squirrel removal and exclusion.
Squirrels mate sometime between January and February, then again between May and June. Younger, females that are less experienced might only mate once. During these periods, males can smell when females are in heat. They chase after them, and males fight for who gets to mate with females first. Squirrels may have multiple partners, though it is usually the first males who sire the babies. Females build nests in anticipation of the mating season, then give birth 38 to 44 days after mating, depending on the species. Litters consist of 1 to 7 kits. Females raise the kits, by themselves, until the kits are 7 to 10 weeks of age.
How to Avoid a Squirrel Invasion
It is common for squirrels to break into homes during mating seasons. Female squirrels, seeking a safe place to nest, are attracted to the warmth and security that attics provide. Like hollow trees, they are above ground, and difficult for people to reach. To get inside, squirrels chew holes into the soffits, shingles, or vents. If you want to stop them from doing so, keep your roof in good repair. Squirrels will take advantage of gaps and weaknesses on the roof. For bonus protection, contact a wildlife technician for exclusion. They can cover vents and other vulnerabilities with a squirrel-proof mesh.
Another effective way you can keep squirrels away is to make your property less attractive. So, keep the yard tidy and well manicured. Protect bulbs by covering them in chicken wire before you bury them. Use row covers and other protective materials to keep squirrels out of your vegetable garden. Mow the lawn, rake the leaves, and pick up fallen fruit. You might also want to put away the bird feeder, especially in spring and summer. Remove as many food sources as you can. You can also try using squirrel deterrents, such as predator urine or apple cider vinegar.
Hire a Professional Squirrel Removal Company
Attempting to remove a squirrel may result in injury. Trapping is also inhumane as it may seriously harm the squirrel or separate a mother from her kits. Call us if you are in need of squirrel removal and we will get the job done right. We ensure that mothers and babies are not harmed in the process. We wait until babies are mobile, then use a one-way door to safely let the family out of its den. Once out, we remove the door and replace it with mesh or another impenetrable material. We offer safe, affordable, guaranteed wildlife removal services in Hamilton.