Are squirrels pests?

Squirrels are often seen as cute, bushy-tailed creatures that scamper through trees and parks. Delighting nature lovers and children alike. But while they may appear harmless, squirrels can become a real problem when they enter homes, attics, and gardens. So, the question is: are squirrels pests?

The short answer is yes—in certain situations, squirrels are considered pests. And when they start causing damage to your property or become a nuisance, it’s time to take action. If you’re dealing with unwanted squirrel activity, Topline Pest Control, your trusted squirrel exterminator in Doncaster, is here to help.

When Do Squirrels Become Pests?

In their natural habitat, squirrels play an important role in the ecosystem. They help plant trees by burying nuts, provide food for predators, and contribute to the biodiversity of woodlands. However, problems arise when squirrels leave the trees and invade homes, outbuildings, or commercial properties.

Here are some common situations where squirrels cross the line from wildlife to pest:

Nesting in Attics and Roof Spaces

One of the most common squirrel issues in urban and suburban areas is when they find their way into lofts, roof spaces, or wall cavities. Squirrels are agile climbers and can easily scale walls, leap from trees, and squeeze through small openings. Once inside, they build nests and can cause significant damage.

They may chew through wooden beams, insulation, and even electrical wires. Thus, creating serious fire risks. In these cases, squirrels are not just an annoyance; they’re a threat to your property’s safety and structure.

Garden and Plant Damage

Squirrels can also wreak havoc in gardens. They dig up bulbs, strip bark from trees, eat birdseed, and raid vegetable patches. Their gnawing and digging can be incredibly frustrating for gardeners. They can cause lasting damage to plants and landscaping features.

Noise and Disruption

Once squirrels have made themselves at home in your attic, you’ll know it. They’re active during the day, and their scurrying, scratching, and gnawing can be loud enough to disturb your daily life—or your sleep. In some cases, they’ll even breed inside the property, making the infestation worse over time.

Are All Squirrels Treated as Pests?

In the UK, there are two main types of squirrels: the native red squirrel and the non-native grey squirrel. The red squirrel is a protected species and rarely causes problems in residential areas. In contrast, grey squirrels—introduced from North America in the 19th century—are more widespread and are legally considered pests in certain contexts.

It’s important to know that grey squirrels are not protected, and it is legal to control or remove them from your property if they are causing a problem. That’s where professional help from a licensed squirrel exterminator in Doncaster by Topline Pest Control becomes essential.

Why DIY Isn’t Always the Answer

Many homeowners are tempted to handle squirrel infestations themselves, using traps, deterrents, or sealing entry points. However, without proper knowledge and experience, DIY methods often fail. And in some cases, they can make the problem worse.

For example, blocking off access points while squirrels are still inside your attic can lead to them becoming trapped, panicked, and destructive. Worse still, a trapped squirrel may die in the walls or loft, leading to odour and hygiene issues.

Professional pest control companies like Topline Pest Control have the experience, tools, and training to deal with squirrels humanely and effectively. We understand squirrel behaviour, know how to locate nests, and can safely remove them without putting your home—or your family—at risk.

Our Approach to Squirrel Control

At Topline Pest Control, we provide comprehensive squirrel exterminator services in Doncaster. Our process includes:

• Thorough inspection of your property to identify signs of squirrel activity
• Humane trapping and removal using industry-approved methods
• Seal and proofing to block future access points
• Advice on prevention, including garden management and home maintenance
• Follow-up checks to ensure the problem is completely resolved

We take pride in offering safe, discreet, and efficient pest control services that protect your property and restore your peace of mind.

Prevention Tips

To minimise the risk of a squirrel problem in your home or garden, consider the following tips:

• Trim tree branches away from your roof
• Seal any gaps or holes in your loft, fascia boards, or eaves
• Use squirrel-proof bird feeders
• Store rubbish and compost securely
• Keep gardens tidy and remove potential nesting materials

Even with these precautions, squirrels can still find a way in. That’s why it’s good to know you have a reliable team on hand when needed.

Need Help with Squirrels?

If you suspect squirrels are nesting in your loft or causing damage around your home, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Get in touch with your local experts in squirrel extermination in Doncaster.

Contact us

With Topline Pest Control, you can expect fast response times, expert service, and lasting solutions. Let us help you take back control of your home with a squirrel exterminator in Doncaster—safely and effectively. Give us a call today on 01302 969049. Alternatively send us a message via our website.