Should I Remove a Squirrel Nest From a Tree?

Trees are squirrels’ natural habitat. As long as these trees are located far away from your property, squirrels shouldn’t pose a problem. However, if they nest near or on your property, they can break into your home or building as well as destroy your landscape.

Squirrels also harbor diseases like leptospirosis and typhus, and parasites, such as ticks and fleas. As such, they pose a risk to both humans and domesticated animals, which can include pets or cattle.

A squirrel nest on your property is a sure sign that they’ve settled in. These nests are found either within tree cavities or high up on the branches of a tree. If you’re worried about pests, diseases and property damage, you might wonder, “should I remove a squirrel nest from a tree?” You might also consider how to remove a squirrel nest from a tree.

Taking matters into your own hands without thoroughly researching squirrel nests and the correct method for getting rid of squirrel nests in trees can cause harm to both you and the squirrels. Before you proceed, read on for more information on squirrel nests and the best way to handle them.

Identifying Squirrel Nests

Before you worry about getting rid of squirrel nests in trees, it’s best first to confirm that they are indeed squirrel nests and not those of another animal.

Squirrel nests, also referred to as “dreys,” are made of various materials, such as twigs, feathers, leaves and grass, all clumped together. They are typically about a foot in diameter.

Squirrels construct their nests in tree cavities to protect their young from the elements. They may also build 20 feet up a tree, usually in a fork, to keep themselves and their baby squirrels away from predators. Sometimes squirrels will take over an abandoned bird’s nest and build their drey there.

Some homeowners have reported finding several nests on their property. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a severe squirrel infestation. Squirrels like to move around between food and water sources, so it’s common for them to build two or more extra nests near their primary one.

It may be hard to tell if a nest belongs to a squirrel or a bird, as they look similar. Before you ask, “should I remove a squirrel nest from a tree,” you should determine that it’s actually squirrels you’re dealing with. One way to tell is if the nest contains leaves—birds generally don’t use leaves in nest construction.

You can also check underneath the nest for squirrel pawprints and chewed pine cones. Or, if you have time, you can sit quietly outside and wait for these furry critters to show themselves.  

“Should I Remove a Squirrel Nest From a Tree?”

If squirrels are giving you a headache due to their propensity for property damage and eating crops, or if you’re concerned about the diseases they carry, you might be wondering, “should I remove a squirrel’s nest from a tree?”

It’s not generally recommended that you remove squirrel nests yourself. When threatened or frightened, squirrels may bite or scratch. As mentioned previously, squirrels may carry diseases, so trying to remove squirrel nests can put you at risk.

What’s more, squirrels nest very high up in trees. Climbing to the nests means you risk falling and getting injured.

Instead, you should reach out to wildlife removal experts for assistance. These professionals know how to remove a squirrel nest from a tree without causing harm to the squirrels. In Florida, it is illegal to use lethal methods of pest control. A wildlife removal company will use live traps and other humane and legal techniques to address squirrel infestations.

How to Prevent Squirrels From Coming Back

Here are some ways to keep squirrels from returning to your property and building new nests:

Use Physical Barriers

You can try protecting your garden with a wire fence buried at least six inches below the surface. This way, squirrels can’t easily dig under the fence to get to your garden.

Eliminate Food Sources

If you have a bird feeder, consider using safflower seeds and white proso millet instead of other types of bird seed. Squirrels are detracted from the taste.

Install Motion-Activated Sprinklers

These can help scare away squirrels as well as other pests. However, remember that these methods can result in higher water bills.

“Squirrel-Proof” Your Home or Building

Squirrel-proofing involves having a wildlife control specialist evaluate your property for possible entry points for squirrels and other pests. After inspecting your home or building, they will recommend patching up and sealing any holes, gaps or vents squirrels could squeeze through. This helps ensure that squirrels and other nuisance animals will not be able to enter.

Get Expert Help With Squirrel Removal

Squirrels don’t always have to be removed from a property. But when they do, your best option is to contact a trusted wildlife removal company for help.

Quick Catch is a company that specializes in the humane capture and relocation of nuisance wildlife in residential and commercial properties. Our team also offers animal instruction prevention to keep pests from returning to your home or place of business.

Get a quick estimate today by contacting us at (904) 859-6585.

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