Getting rid of squirrels in your trailer requires a multi-pronged approach focused on humane removal, prevention, and thorough sealing of entry points. Ignoring the problem will only lead to more damage and a potential health hazard.
Understanding the Squirrel Invasion
Squirrels seeking shelter, food, or nesting locations often find trailers appealing because of their accessibility and insulation. The damage they can inflict ranges from shredded wiring and gnawed wood to contaminated insulation and compromised structural integrity. It’s critical to act quickly and effectively to evict these unwanted guests and prevent their return.
Step-by-Step Guide to Squirrel Removal
1. Identify the Entry Points
The first step is a comprehensive inspection of your trailer’s exterior and interior. Look for:
- Holes and Cracks: Pay close attention to the roof, vents, undercarriage, and areas where pipes or wires enter the trailer. Even small openings (as little as 1.5 inches) can allow squirrels access.
- Droppings and Nests: Squirrel droppings are typically small, cylindrical, and dark brown or black. Nests are usually constructed from leaves, twigs, paper, and other readily available materials, often found in attics, walls, or under furniture.
- Gnawing Marks: Squirrels constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp. Look for gnawed wood, wiring, or plastic.
- Sounds: Listen for scratching, scampering, or chewing noises, especially during dawn and dusk, when squirrels are most active.
2. Humane Removal Techniques
- One-Way Exits: Install one-way exit doors or cones over known entry points. These devices allow squirrels to leave but prevent them from re-entering. Leave these in place for several days to ensure all squirrels have vacated the premises. Never seal entry points with squirrels still inside.
- Live Traps: Use humane live traps baited with peanut butter, nuts, or birdseed. Place the traps near known entry points or in areas where squirrel activity is high. Check the traps frequently, at least twice a day, to release any captured animals promptly.
- Professional Wildlife Removal: If you’re uncomfortable handling squirrels yourself or if the infestation is severe, contact a qualified wildlife removal specialist. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and humanely remove squirrels from your trailer.
3. Sealing Entry Points
Once you’re confident that all squirrels have left, it’s crucial to seal all entry points to prevent future infestations.
- Steel Mesh: Use heavy-duty steel mesh or hardware cloth to cover larger openings and vents. Secure the mesh with screws or staples.
- Caulk and Sealant: Seal smaller cracks and crevices with waterproof caulk or sealant.
- Metal Flashing: Install metal flashing around pipes and other protrusions to prevent squirrels from gnawing their way in.
- Inspect Regularly: Routinely inspect your trailer for new entry points and seal them promptly.
4. Deterrents and Preventative Measures
- Remove Food Sources: Keep your trailer and surrounding area free of food scraps, bird feeders, and pet food.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim branches that overhang your trailer to prevent squirrels from jumping onto the roof.
- Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Place motion-activated sprinklers around your trailer to deter squirrels from approaching.
- Repellents: Consider using squirrel repellents, such as those containing capsaicin (the active ingredient in chili peppers), near known entry points. Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully.
5. Cleaning and Disinfection
After removing the squirrels and sealing entry points, it’s essential to clean and disinfect the affected areas.
- Remove Nests and Droppings: Wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from potential diseases. Carefully remove all nests and droppings and dispose of them in a sealed bag.
- Disinfect Surfaces: Disinfect all surfaces that may have come into contact with squirrels, using a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercial disinfectant.
- Ventilate the Area: Ensure the area is well-ventilated to allow the disinfectant to dry thoroughly and to dissipate any lingering odors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3: 1. What attracts squirrels to trailers in the first place?
Squirrels are attracted to trailers for several reasons: shelter from the elements, readily available food sources (even small crumbs), and safe nesting locations. Trailers often have cracks and crevices that provide easy access, and the insulation can offer warmth during colder months.
H3: 2. How do I know if squirrels are nesting in my trailer?
Signs of nesting squirrels include finding nests made of leaves, twigs, and shredded paper in attics, walls, or under furniture. You might also hear rustling or scratching noises, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.
H3: 3. Can squirrels damage the electrical wiring in my trailer?
Yes, squirrels are notorious for gnawing on electrical wiring, which can create a serious fire hazard. Their teeth never stop growing, so they constantly need to chew to keep them filed down. Wiring is a convenient and often accessible target.
H3: 4. Is it safe to handle squirrels myself?
While it’s possible to handle squirrel removal yourself, it’s generally not recommended due to the risk of bites, scratches, and disease transmission. Squirrels can carry diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and tularemia. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact a wildlife removal professional.
H3: 5. What are some humane ways to trap squirrels?
Humane live traps are the best option for trapping squirrels. Choose a trap that is appropriately sized for squirrels (typically 5x5x18 inches) and bait it with peanut butter, nuts, or birdseed. Place the trap near known entry points or in areas where you’ve observed squirrel activity. Check the trap frequently and release any captured animals far away from your property.
H3: 6. What should I do if I catch a squirrel in a live trap?
If you catch a squirrel in a live trap, wear gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from bites and scratches. Approach the trap calmly and avoid making sudden movements that might startle the animal. Release the squirrel in a wooded area at least five miles away from your property to prevent it from returning.
H3: 7. How can I prevent squirrels from getting back into my trailer after I’ve removed them?
The key to preventing future infestations is to seal all entry points thoroughly. Use steel mesh to cover larger openings and vents, and caulk or sealant to seal smaller cracks and crevices. Regularly inspect your trailer for new entry points and address them promptly.
H3: 8. Are there any natural repellents that will keep squirrels away?
Yes, several natural repellents can help deter squirrels. Capsaicin (the active ingredient in chili peppers), peppermint oil, and mothballs are all known to be effective. However, it’s essential to use repellents responsibly and follow the product instructions carefully.
H3: 9. How often should I inspect my trailer for squirrel activity?
Regular inspections are crucial for preventing squirrel infestations. Aim to inspect your trailer at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, when squirrels are most active.
H3: 10. What if I find baby squirrels in my trailer?
If you find baby squirrels, avoid disturbing them if possible. The mother squirrel will likely return to care for them. If you must remove the squirrels, contact a wildlife rehabilitation center for guidance. It’s illegal in many areas to relocate or care for wildlife without proper permits.
H3: 11. Will my insurance cover the cost of squirrel damage?
Whether your insurance covers the cost of squirrel damage depends on your specific policy. Contact your insurance company to inquire about coverage for wildlife damage. Some policies may cover the cost of repairs if the damage is deemed accidental.
H3: 12. When is the best time of year to address a squirrel problem in my trailer?
The best time to address a squirrel problem is during the late winter or early spring, before the breeding season begins. This will minimize the risk of disturbing nesting females and their young.