Category Archives: Squirrels

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Tips for Humane Removal of Squirrels from Your Attic

Tips for Humane Removal of Squirrels from Your Attic
Tips for Humane Removal of Squirrels from Your Attic

Maybe you’re hearing the pitter-patter of little feet running across the ceiling or there’s scratching sounds emanating from the attic. If so, this could only mean one thing: squirrels.

Getting Rid of Squirrels in the Attic

There have always been bats in the belfry and right along with them are squirrels in the attic. Whether they’ve moved in for warmth during the cold season or to have their babies in a safe environment, the fuzzy-tailed critters can cause damage to your home.

Tips for NJ Squirrel Removal

Consider these do-it-yourself tips to help alleviate the problem.

– Place wire mesh over exterior ventilation vents leading to the attic.

– For homes with a chimney, cover the chimney cap with wire mesh or a chimney cap.

– If there are holes leading into your home large enough for a squirrel to squeeze through, repair them.

– Secure any openings that may exist between the attic and any and all rooms in the home.

– If squirrels are present in the attic, they need a way in and out. When sealing potential entry spots, leave a hole open to lure the squirrels out; then seal it to prevent reentry.

When unwanted critters invade your home, you need the services of a professional NJ squirrel removal service. That’s where Stern Environmental can help. With humane removal techniques, we’ll take care of getting your home squirrel-free. Call us today for a home inspection.

 

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The Eastern Gray Squirrel – What to Know About Their Breeding and Habits

What to Know About Squirrels
What to Know About Squirrels

The gray squirrel has a large home base as it enjoys the many forests in the eastern portion of North America and those located in southern Canada. They prefer old-growth hardwoods where they build their nests, which are usually constructed with a combination of twigs, bark, twigs, and leaves. They also make their nests inside tree cavities.

Breeding Habits

The breeding habits of the gray squirrel are in many ways the same as those of a red squirrel. This means you’ll see close to a dozen male squirrels engaging in what is referred to as the “mating chase.”

The mating season takes place twice a year, once in the latter part of the winter season and again during the mid-summer season. Females ages two years or older are likely to have more than one litter. Younger females usually have just one litter.

Females average 2-3 babies per litter where they remain in the nest or den for around 49 days before attempting to leave the nest, and around 70 days before they’re weaned.

Squirrel Removal

Squirrels may get in the attic where they can do damage to electrical wiring due to their propensity for chewing. A NJ pest control expert will need to be called to remove the squirrel(s) safely. This could include her babies.

If squirrels are wreaking havoc in your attic, Stern Environmental is your go-to NJ pest control specialist. Call us today.

Animal Control, Squirrels

Summer is Nesting Time for Squirrels – What to Know

Be Careful: Squirrels Will Eat Just About Anything!
Be Careful: Squirrels Will Eat Just About Anything!

Squirrels are one of the more entertaining creatures to watch as they make their way through the treetops leaping, jumping, and climbing their way along the branches. Their acrobatic techniques, fast-flying feet, agile paws, and inquisitive eyes just add to their personality and appeal.

Squirrel Nests

If you have tall trees in your yard, chances are, they have been the home of a squirrel’s nest. Squirrels have an affinity for choosing sturdy trees that provide plenty of coverage and security for their young.

One place you’ll find a squirrel nest is in a tree cavity den. These are usually created by woodpeckers for their young, or it may be a naturally hollowed out cavity. These enclosures provide optimum protection from the elements.

The second nesting place is found nestled in the fork of sturdy tree branches, which provide stability against the wind. These nests are constructed of leaves, moss, twigs, tree bark, grass and other materials the squirrels deem appropriate and are located high in the branches away from roving predators.

The squirrel weaves together the material creating a base then a framework or outer shell, which is then filled and lined with additional material.

Additional nests may be in nearby trees and are used as resting places, food storage hideaways, or hiding spots.

Stern Environmental provides efficient squirrel removal services when needed. Call today and a squirrel removal specialist will be on their way.

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Be Careful: Squirrels Will Eat Just About Anything!

Be Careful: Squirrels Will Eat Just About Anything!
Be Careful: Squirrels Will Eat Just About Anything!

A New Jersey household recently discovered the ostentatious appetites of an area, tree-faring rodent. The Maplewood family never suspected the area squirrel of burglary, but the furry felon was caught on tape red-handed, wreaking havoc on neighborhood cheer.

Smooth Criminal
When expensive gourmet chocolates and lip balm, intended as holiday treats for area delivery drivers, started disappearing, the family went to work, worried an area Grinch had plans to steal their Christmas gifts. Setting out a surveillance camera, they were shocked at the culprit. It seemed they didn’t need law enforcement after all, but local NJ squirrel removal services!

Picky Pest
The portly rodent was so overweight, he appeared to be packing the pounds away for a decade of winters, and was caught-in-the-act pocketing choice chocolates and lip balms. The Maplewoods said discovering the bold-faced bandit brought them a mountain of joy. They tried to redirect the stout squirrel to nuts, seeds, and popcorn, repackaging the chocolate into a jar that required opposable thumbs, but the cheeky culprit could not be swayed, tossing the seeds in lieu of other flavors.

Serious Shenanigans
The Maplewoods were not alone. Officials in nearby Sea Girt discovered the area’s annual Christmas lighting thwarted by tattered wiring. Rushing to rectify the situation, police quickly uncovered another rascally rodent.

NJ squirrel removal needs? No matter the reason or the season, the humane services of Stern Environmental have you covered.

Animal Control, Pest Animal Removal, Residential Services, Squirrel Control, Squirrels, Wildlife Control

Don’t Poison Squirrels – Use Catch and Remove Instead

While squirrels may be fun to watch as they scurry from tree to tree or maybe you enjoy feeding them peanuts or sunflower seeds, they can become a nuisance and do damage to your home.

This is especially true during the winter when they prefer the attic in someone’s home where it is relatively warm versus facing the cold elements of the outdoors. They also look for cozy places to build nests and raise their young until they’re old enough to move outside.

Removing Squirrels

NJ squirrel removal is best left to the professionals who know how to find entry points and then trap the squirrels to be moved to another location. It’s best to remember that squirrels are wild and very agile. If cornered, they have the ability to jump, which may be on you, as well as bite and scratch.

Do not attempt to remove squirrels yourself as it could be dangerous and you should never use a poisonous substance as it isn’t effectual or humane. With a catch and remove approach, squirrels can be safely trapped in specially designed cages and removed by experts.

When NJ squirrel removal is necessary for the protection of your home, contact the professionals at Stern Environmental Group. Our services provide fast and efficient humane squirrel trapping and removal. Call us today about squirrels in the attic and let us take care of making your home squirrel-free.