Is DIY Squirrel Removal Worth the Risk? Find Out Now!
Squirrels might seem cute when they’re frolicking in your backyard, but when they invade your home, it’s a whole different story. You’ve noticed the scratching noises in the attic, maybe even spotted chewed wires or insulation scattered about, and now you’re considering taking matters into your own hands. But before you grab a ladder and a trap, let’s take a closer look: is DIY squirrel removal really worth the risk?
As a professional wildlife removal expert, I’ve seen it all—both successful DIY attempts and, unfortunately, many that made the problem worse. Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and hidden dangers of handling squirrels on your own and why professional help may save you time, money, and headaches.
Why Squirrels in Your Home Are No Joke
What Draws Squirrels Indoors?
Squirrels aren’t looking to annoy you; they’re just looking for a warm, safe place to raise their young or escape the cold. Your attic is basically a squirrel paradise—dry, insulated, and protected from predators. Unfortunately, once they move in, they don’t leave quietly.
The Damage They Can Cause
From my experience, most homeowners don’t realize how much harm squirrels can do until it’s too late. Here are some common issues:
- Chewed Wires: Squirrels have constantly growing teeth, and chewing on wires keeps them filed down. This can lead to electrical shorts and even fire hazards.
- Destroyed Insulation: Squirrels shred insulation to build their nests, leaving your home less energy-efficient.
- Structural Damage: Persistent gnawing can weaken wooden beams or create new entry points.
Health Risks
Squirrels can carry diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella, and their droppings can harbor harmful parasites. Plus, handling squirrels directly risks bites and scratches, especially if you encounter a mother protecting her babies.
The Appeal of DIY Squirrel Removal
It’s easy to understand why some homeowners want to try removing squirrels themselves.
- Cost Savings: Professional wildlife removal isn’t cheap, and a DIY approach might seem like a way to save money.
- Quick Action: When you hear that incessant scratching, the urge to act immediately can be overwhelming.
- Sense of Accomplishment: Tackling the problem yourself can feel rewarding—if it works.
I once had a client who proudly showed me the homemade squirrel trap he’d built from a shoebox and duct tape. It didn’t work (of course), but his enthusiasm was undeniable. Unfortunately, squirrels are clever creatures, and DIY efforts often fall short of solving the problem completely.
The Hidden Risks of DIY Squirrel Removal
Safety Hazards
Handling squirrels can be more dangerous than it looks.
- Climbing and Falling Risks: Climbing onto your roof or into tight attic spaces can be hazardous, especially if you’re not used to working in those conditions.
- Aggressive Squirrels: A cornered or stressed squirrel may lash out, biting or scratching. And if you’re dealing with a mother squirrel, she’ll fiercely protect her babies.
A few years ago, a homeowner I worked with tried to remove a squirrel’s nest from his attic with a broom. The squirrel didn’t appreciate the intrusion and lunged at him, leading to a trip to urgent care for a tetanus shot.
Incomplete Removal
Squirrels are clever and resourceful. Removing one or two may not solve the problem if there are others hiding in the attic—or if you miss their entry points. Even worse, if a mother squirrel is separated from her young, she’ll do whatever it takes to get back to them, including chewing through your walls.
Improper Trap Use
It’s not uncommon for homeowners to use traps incorrectly, either failing to catch the squirrel or injuring it in the process. Plus, relocation laws vary by state, and you could face fines for releasing a squirrel in the wrong area.
Why Professional Removal Is Often the Better Choice
Expertise and Equipment
Wildlife professionals have the tools and experience to locate nests, identify entry points, and safely remove squirrels without harming them—or you. They also know how to ensure no squirrels are left behind, preventing the issue from recurring.
Humane and Legal Practices
Professionals use humane methods to trap and relocate squirrels, ensuring compliance with local wildlife regulations. I often remind clients that taking shortcuts here could lead to hefty fines or other legal trouble.
Comprehensive Solutions
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a professional is prevention. After removing the squirrels, we seal entry points and recommend measures to make your home less attractive to future critters. This might include trimming tree branches near your roof, installing chimney caps, or reinforcing vents with heavy-duty mesh.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Services
At first glance, DIY squirrel removal might seem more affordable, but hidden costs can quickly add up:
- DIY Supplies: Traps, bait, protective gear, and materials to repair squirrel damage can cost hundreds of dollars.
- Time Investment: If you’re spending hours researching, setting traps, and inspecting your attic, that’s time you could be spending with your family or on other priorities.
- Potential Damage: If the problem persists or worsens, repairs can be costly—and insurance may not cover damage caused by wildlife.
Professional services, on the other hand, typically range from $200 to $600 depending on the severity of the problem. While this is an upfront expense, it often includes removal, prevention, and a warranty for added peace of mind.
So, Is DIY Squirrel Removal Worth the Risk?
The short answer: it depends.
For small, straightforward cases—like a single squirrel you’ve seen enter the attic—DIY methods might work if you’re confident in your skills and aware of local laws. But for most homeowners, the risks and challenges outweigh the potential savings.
Hiring a professional ensures the problem is handled safely, humanely, and thoroughly. You’ll also gain valuable prevention tips to protect your home in the future.
