Calgary Pest Control & Exterminator Services - Squirrel Removal in Calgary

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Squirrel removal, particularly when they are nesting in attics or walls, is a very common issue in Alberta homes. While they appear harmless, squirrels can cause significant damage by chewing on electrical wiring (a fire hazard) and damaging insulation.

The recommended approach is to use humane, non-lethal exclusion methods, which are also often preferred by professional wildlife control companies in Alberta.

Here is an outline of the effective and humane approach to squirrel removal and prevention:

🐿️ Humane Squirrel Removal and Exclusion

Phase 1: Inspection and Identification

Locate Entry Points: Inspect the exterior of your home, especially the roofline, soffits, eaves, dormers, and vents. Squirrels often use gaps near gutters, torn roof vents, or chewed openings in wood.
Confirm the Species: In Alberta, you are most likely dealing with Red Squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) or Eastern Grey Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in urban areas.
Check for Nesting & Young: Squirrels give birth twice a year (early spring and late summer). Do not seal the entry point if young are present! Sealing the mother out traps the young inside, leading to odor, distress, and further damage. Professionals will often use deterrents to get the mother to move the young herself, or they may hand-remove the juveniles and place them near the exit so the mother can retrieve them.

Phase 2: Humane Eviction (Exclusion)

The most recommended and effective method for removing squirrels from an attic or wall is the One-Way Door Exclusion:

Seal Secondary Points: Identify and seal all potential entry points and weak spots except the primary access hole. Use durable, chew-proof materials like heavy-gauge steel mesh (hardware cloth) or metal flashing.
Install the One-Way Door: A special exit device (a one-way door) is fitted over the primary entry point.
Function: This device allows the squirrel to push its way out when it leaves to forage, but prevents it from pushing back in to re-enter the nest.
Monitoring: Monitor the door for several days to ensure all squirrels (including any potential young) have exited before permanently sealing the final hole.

Phase 3: Prevention (Long-Term Solution)

Once the squirrels are confirmed gone, permanent exclusion is key to preventing future infestations.

Prevention Strategy

Action Steps

Trim Access Routes

Trim tree branches back at least 6 to 10 feet from the roofline, chimney, and gutters. Squirrels are excellent jumpers.

Install Barriers

Install durable metal chimney caps and cover all roof, attic, and dryer vents with chew-proof wire mesh.

Secure Food Sources

Store pet food and trash in secure, tight-lidded containers. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders or remove them entirely, as spilled seed is a major attractant.

Seal Exterior Gaps

Permanently seal all holes, gaps, and cracks larger than 1/4 inch using metal mesh or concrete/caulk to prevent entry by squirrels and other rodents.

⚠️ Legal and Safety Considerations in Alberta

Trapping & Relocation: While some companies may offer live trapping, translocating (relocating far away) squirrels is generally discouraged and often illegal without a proper license, as translocated animals have poor survival rates.
Poisons: Never use poisons to remove squirrels in a home. The squirrel will likely die inside the walls or attic, creating a terrible smell and biohazard, and poisons risk secondary poisoning to other wildlife or pets.
Professional Help: Due to the risk of structural damage, potential biohazards (droppings), and the danger of working on a roof, hiring a licensed wildlife control specialist is highly recommended.