Grey squirrel

Biology and behaviour

The grey squirrel is common in parks and woodland mainly in England and Wales. Although usually an outdoor dweller, it can get in to homes, usually the roof or loft space. The grey squirrel can be destructive, gnawing at fascias, joists and even wiring in roof spaces, they may also make nests (dreys) from loft insulation or other material found in roof spaces.

Squirrels can usually be heard in roof spaces because of their movement and gnawing, usually at dawn and dusk when they leave or return to the drey. Squirrels are incredibly agile and will scale vertical walls to get to their nests

Squirrels are usually born in February/March and second litters may also be born in June/July, generally leaving the nest in August/September. There are usually three or four young to a litter.

Description

  • Grey in colour with a pale or white underside with a bushy tail
  • Size approx 25cm with 22 cm of tail

Signs to look for:

  • Sightings of squirrels around the gutters or roof area
  • Gnawed holes or damage to fascias
  • Chewing of wires or cables in the roof space

Prevention

There are many precautions you can take to reduce the chances of getting a squirrel problem

  • Ensure that the fascias and gutter areas are free from damage and holes
  • Consult a tree surgeon if trees are leaning against, or the branches are touching, your property

Book a pest control appointment

We only deal with squirrels inside the home.

This is a chargeable service, the current cost is £216.00 or £108.00 (concession for selected benefits).

Book an appointment

Please be aware:

  • access to the roof space must be available from inside the property.
  • at your first appointment you will be given two follow up appointments on consecutive days to check traps - please be aware someone will need to be home each day to give access
  • we do not deal with squirrels in gardens

Customer Services

Open 9am–5pm Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays). If you do need to call us, please try to avoid our busiest times of lunchtime and early afternoon. Many queries relating to Council Tax, benefits or bin and bulky waste collections can be dealt with directly by logging into My Account.

Telephone: 08085 834333