Professional Squirrel Control Services in the UK

The grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is a common pest across the UK, originally introduced from North America in the 19th century. While they are often admired in parks and gardens, grey squirrels can cause significant problems when they enter homes or buildings. At Shire Pest Solutions, we offer effective, humane, and compliant squirrel control services to protect both properties and native wildlife.

Understanding Grey Squirrels

Grey squirrels are now widespread across most of mainland England and Wales, thriving in both rural and urban environments. They are intelligent, agile climbers that often take up residence in lofts, roof spaces, and cavities in search of warmth and shelter — particularly during colder months. Once inside, they can cause extensive property damage and potential fire hazards.

Why Are Grey Squirrels a Problem?

Though they may appear harmless, grey squirrels can be extremely destructive when nesting in buildings:

• Chewing on woodwork: Their constantly growing teeth lead them to gnaw on beams and rafters, causing structural damage.
• Stripping insulation from wiring and pipes: This can lead to power outages, leaks, or even fires.
• Disturbing loft insulation: Squirrels tear up fibreglass insulation for nesting, reducing heat efficiency and increasing energy bills.
• Water contamination: In rare cases, squirrels may fall into water tanks, contaminating the supply.

Impact on Native Wildlife

Grey squirrels have also contributed to the decline of the UK’s native red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). They outcompete reds for food and habitat and carry the squirrel pox virus — deadly to red squirrels but harmless to greys. As a result, red squirrel populations have been pushed to smaller, isolated habitats in parts of Scotland and Northern England.

Preventing and Managing Squirrel Infestations

Preventing squirrels from entering your property is the most effective approach. If you suspect activity in your loft or garden, take the following steps:

• Inspect lofts and roof voids for droppings, nests, or gnaw marks
• Trim overhanging branches near roofs to reduce access routes
• Seal entry holes and gaps with wire mesh or metal sheeting
• Remove accessible food sources such as bird feeders or unsecured bins

Professional Squirrel Control Methods

At Shire Pest Solutions, we use humane and effective techniques to manage squirrel infestations. Our approach focuses on prevention and safe removal, using methods such as:

• Physical proofing: Blocking gaps and potential entry holes with secure wire mesh or metal guards.
• Trapping: Live traps used in accordance with UK pest control regulations.
• Rodenticides: In some cases, warfarin-based baits may be used under professional supervision to ensure safe application.

All control measures are carried out responsibly and in line with wildlife legislation to ensure minimal harm to non-target species.

Do Squirrels Carry Diseases?

Squirrels can carry several diseases that affect both wildlife and, in rare cases, humans. The most notable is the squirrel pox virus, which is fatal to red squirrels but typically harmless to greys. The virus can survive outside the host for extended periods, particularly in dry conditions, and spreads through body fluids or shared parasites.

Squirrel Pox Symptoms

Infected red squirrels may show visible signs such as scabs, fur loss, or swollen lesions resembling myxomatosis. They may also become unusually lethargic or tame and consume excessive amounts of water. Unfortunately, the disease almost always results in death once symptoms appear.

Other Diseases Associated with Squirrels

• Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease): Research has shown that grey squirrels can carry Mycobacterium lepromatosis. While transmission to humans is extremely rare, it is advised to wear gloves and wash hands after handling wildlife.
• Lyme Disease: Squirrels may carry ticks infected with the Borrelia bacteria, which can cause Lyme disease in humans. This can lead to joint pain, fatigue, and neurological complications if untreated.
• Secondary infections: Squirrel feeding sites can harbour bacteria and fungi, posing risks to pets and other wildlife.

How to Prevent Disease Transmission

• Avoid handling live or dead squirrels directly
• Disinfect traps, feeders, and any contact surfaces regularly
• Use protective gloves and wash hands thoroughly after outdoor work
• Monitor pets for fleas or ticks and use preventive treatments

Why Professional Squirrel Control Is Essential

Dealing with squirrels requires care and expertise, especially when they have entered lofts or roof spaces. DIY trapping or poisoning can be dangerous, ineffective, or illegal if not done correctly. Professional pest controllers have the tools and knowledge to remove squirrels safely, identify entry points, and prevent future infestations while complying with animal welfare laws.

Professional Squirrel Control with Shire Pest Solutions

If you suspect squirrels are causing damage or disturbance in your home, contact Shire Pest Solutions for expert assistance. Our experienced team will assess the situation, provide safe and humane control options, and implement proofing measures to prevent re-entry. With our help, you can protect your property, preserve native wildlife, and restore peace of mind.