Professional Squirrel Control Services in the UK

Grey squirrels are common across much of the UK, but when they move into lofts, roof spaces, and outbuildings they can become a serious pest. At Shire Pest Solutions, we provide professional squirrel control and proofing to stop damage, reduce fire risk, and prevent repeat entry.

Why Grey Squirrels Are Considered Pests

Grey squirrels cause significant damage to properties and native wildlife. Indoors, they chew through timber, insulation, and electrical wiring. Outdoors, they strip bark from trees, damage gardens, and outcompete native red squirrels for food and habitat.

Signs of Squirrels in a Loft or Roof Space

Squirrels are diurnal (active during daylight hours), so loft activity often sounds louder in the morning and afternoon than rats or mice. Common signs include:

• Scratching, scurrying, or thumping noises in ceilings or loft voids
• Chewed insulation, woodwork, or stored items
• Droppings and urine staining
• Nests made from shredded paper, cardboard, or loft insulation
• Damaged soffits, vents, roof felt, or loose tiles

How Squirrels Get Into Buildings

Squirrels are agile climbers and can reach roof lines via fences, walls, drainpipes, trees, and utility lines. They often enter through broken vents, gaps under eaves, damaged soffits, loose tiles, or weak points around roof junctions. Trimming back overhanging branches and sealing access points is key to prevention.

Are Squirrels Dangerous?

Squirrels aren’t typically aggressive, but they may bite if cornered. The bigger issue is the risk of property damage and parasites such as fleas and ticks. These parasites can affect pets and may carry diseases (for example, ticks linked to Lyme disease).

What Diseases Can Squirrels Carry?

Grey squirrels can carry squirrel pox (fatal to red squirrels but typically harmless to greys) and may host ticks that can transmit Lyme disease. Research has also detected bacteria linked to leprosy (Mycobacterium lepromatosis) in some squirrel populations, though transmission to humans is extremely rare.

Professional Squirrel Removal and Proofing

The most effective approach is professional removal followed by thorough proofing. We focus on:

• Inspection: Identifying entry points, nesting areas, and damage risks (including wiring).
• Removal: Using approved trapping and control methods carried out responsibly.
• Proofing: Sealing gaps and fitting mesh guards to vents and vulnerable areas.
• Prevention advice: Reducing attractants such as bird feeders and unsecured waste.

Why Professional Squirrel Control Is Essential

DIY trapping or poisoning is not recommended and can be ineffective, unsafe, or unlawful if carried out incorrectly. Professionals have the training, equipment, and knowledge of best practice to remove squirrels, protect your property, and stop them returning.

Professional Squirrel Control with Shire Pest Solutions

If you suspect squirrels in your loft or roof space, contact Shire Pest Solutions for expert support. We’ll assess the situation, remove the problem safely, and implement proofing that helps prevent repeat infestations.