Tag: humane squirrel control Watford

Emergency Squirrel Removal in Watford

Why You Should Never Ignore Squirrels in Your Loft

Why You Should Never Ignore Squirrels in Your Loft

It might be tempting to dismiss the scratching noises in your loft as a minor nuisance, but ignoring squirrels is a mistake that can cost you thousands in repairs. At Watford Pest Exterminators, we’ve seen first-hand the damage squirrels cause when left unchecked. Here’s why squirrel infestations in Watford homes should never be ignored.

Property Damage Caused by Squirrels

  • Chewed wires: One of the most dangerous risks — gnawed wires can spark fires.
  • Insulation damage: Squirrels rip insulation apart for nesting, leaving your loft energy inefficient.
  • Structural weakening: Wooden beams and roof timbers are often chewed through.
  • Roof damage: They can widen existing holes or create new entry points.

Health Risks

Squirrel droppings and urine contaminate lofts, creating strong odours and potential health hazards. They can also carry fleas and ticks, which may spread to pets.

Why Squirrels Don’t Leave on Their Own

Once squirrels establish a nest, they rarely leave voluntarily. With two breeding seasons each year, infestations can grow quickly, leading to even more damage.

Financial Consequences of Ignoring Squirrels

Delaying removal often results in higher costs — not just for pest control, but also for repairing chewed wiring, replacing insulation, and fixing roof damage. Preventing these expenses is far cheaper than fixing them later.

Why Professional Help Is Essential

DIY methods rarely work and may even be illegal. Professional pest controllers provide safe, humane, and effective squirrel removal while also proofing your home to prevent re-entry.

FAQs – Ignoring Squirrels in Your Loft

Q1: Do squirrels really cause fires?
Yes, gnawed wires are one of the leading risks associated with squirrel infestations.

Q2: Can squirrels chew through wood and beams?
Yes, they can damage wooden structures while sharpening their teeth.

Q3: Will squirrels eventually leave on their own?
No, once established, they usually breed and expand the nest.

Q4: Are squirrels dangerous to humans?
They rarely attack but can bite or scratch if handled. Their droppings also pose health risks.

Q5: What time of day are squirrels most active?
They are diurnal, so you’ll often hear them in the morning or early evening.

Q6: Can squirrels damage my roof tiles?
Yes, they can pull up tiles or widen small gaps to gain access.

Q7: How quickly should I call for help?
Immediately — the longer you wait, the more costly the problem becomes.

By adminSquirrel Control
Emergency Squirrel Removal in Watford

Are Squirrels Protected in Watford

Are Squirrels Protected in the UK? What You Need to Know Before Removal

At Watford Pest Exterminators, we are often asked about the legalities of squirrel control in Watford. Many homeowners are unsure whether squirrels are protected in the UK and what can legally be done to remove them. Here’s what you need to know before attempting squirrel removal.

Red Squirrels vs Grey Squirrels

Red squirrels are a native species in the UK and are fully protected by law. It is illegal to harm, trap, or disturb them. Fortunately, red squirrels are very rare in Hertfordshire and Watford, so most infestations involve grey squirrels.

Grey squirrels, introduced from North America, are considered an invasive pest species. They are not protected and must be controlled humanely if they infest properties.

Legal Requirements for Squirrel Control

  • Grey squirrels can be trapped and removed, but must be dealt with humanely.
  • It is illegal to release a trapped grey squirrel back into the wild.
  • Professional pest controllers must follow the UK’s Wildlife and Countryside Act.
  • Red squirrels, if ever encountered, must not be harmed under any circumstances.

Why Professional Removal Matters

Attempting DIY squirrel control can be risky. Not only is it often ineffective, but it can also result in accidental breaches of UK law. Professional pest controllers ensure the process is both legal and humane, while also preventing long-term property damage.

Consequences of Ignoring Grey Squirrels

Grey squirrels may chew through wires, damage insulation, and contaminate loft spaces with droppings. Failing to act quickly could lead to fire risks and expensive repairs. Legal or not, ignoring an infestation will only make the problem worse.

FAQs – Are Squirrels Protected?

Q1: Are grey squirrels protected in the UK?
No, grey squirrels are invasive pests and not protected by law.

Q2: Are red squirrels protected?
Yes, red squirrels are a protected species and must not be harmed or disturbed.

Q3: Can I release a grey squirrel if I trap one?
No, UK law states you cannot release a trapped grey squirrel back into the wild.

Q4: Do I need a licence to remove squirrels?
No licence is needed for grey squirrels, but removal must follow UK regulations.

Q5: Are your trapping methods humane?
Yes, all trapping and removal is carried out using humane and legal methods.

Q6: Can I remove squirrels myself?
DIY attempts are risky and may result in legal issues — it’s best left to professionals.

Q7: Do you provide proofing after removal?
Yes, we offer advice on blocking entry points to prevent future infestations.

By adminSquirrel Control