Squirrels
About squirrels
Red squirrels are protected in the UK, but grey squirrels are classed as pests. Grey squirrels originally came from the Americas and have gradually taken over the habitat of the red squirrel. They are attracted to areas with abundant food - such as gardens with bird feeders - and will choose nest sites close to these areas.
Why are they such a problem?
Grey squirrels do a great deal of damage to houses. They usually get into lofts, making nests out of loft insulation and chewing holes in soffits and through electrical cables. They look very cute and many people are opposed to any form of control - mostly those whose houses have not been damaged.
What happens during our visit?
Squirrels can be controlled by legal methods, including shooting, trapping and poisoning.
The Microbee method of control is by trapping. It requires a great deal of care and supervision. All traps have to be regularly checked and trapped animals dispatched quickly since it is illegal in the UK to be wantonly cruel to an animal, even if it is a pest animal.
The Technician may recommend proofing or tree pruning to prevent the problem re-occurring.
