Squirrels

Squirrel

Squirrels generally have slender bodies with bushy tails. Their fur is usually soft and silky and ranges in colour from white to black, although shades of grey or brown are most common. Squirrels will eat seeds and nuts, but some will also eat bugs or bird eggs. They generally have good vision and tey also have versatile and sturdy claws for grasping and climbing.

The gestation period varies with species of squirrels however for smaller squirrels its about 33 days and larger squirrels its about 60 days. Squirrels breed in late winter and early spring and give birth to usually about 4 young. There can sometimes be a second litter born in mid-summer if food levels are good.

Squirrel young

Young squirrels are born naked, toothless and blind. Generally only the female squirrel will care for the young which are weaned at around 6-10 week of age and they become sexually mature at the end of their first year.

Ground and tree squirrels are typically diurnal while flying squirrels are generally nocturnal.

Squirrels cannot digest cellulose, so they have to rely on foods that are rich in protein, carbohydrates and fats. In temperate regions, early spring is the hardest time since buried nuts are just starting to sprout and are not available to the squirrels. It is during this time that squirrels rely on the buds on trees for food.

Chewed electrical wire

Squirrels can be cute but they are pests. They can cause serious damage to your home and garden and in urban areas the most serious damage occurs when squirrels enter homes, usually by climbing the walls or jumping from trees. Once a squirrel has entered your home they will more than likely chew woodwork, ceilings and more seriously, insulation and electrical wiring which can lead to a fire. In gardens, squirrels are pests because they will eat your plants, raid bird feeders and they can cause damage to trees by stripping the bark.

Using IPM Cottage Country Pest Control can help prevent squirrels from entering your home and causing damage. Call us at 705-534-7863 or email us to book an appointment or if you have any questions.