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Squirrel Information

There are two species of squirrels in the UK, the first is the native red squirrel with its fox red fur and tufted ears, it is the cuter of the two species. Red squirrels are protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981, after their dramatic decline after the introduction of the invasive, non-native grey squirrel.

Grey squirrels are larger than the red squirrel, with an overall length of between 47 – 49 cm. Being a larger species, they often weigh between 400 – 600g. Grey squirrels have (as the name suggests) a light grey fur running the length of their back and tail, with a white chest and belly area.

Grey squirrels were deliberately introduced to Britain from North America on numerous occasions between 1876 -1929. Grey squirrels have since spread the length and breadth of the UK, with small pockets in Scotland and Isle of Wight, where special grey squirrel management is employed to in order to protect the final populations of the native red squirrel.

Being an invasive, non-native species, the grey squirrel has had a detrimental effect on many of Britain’s ecosystems, and they are responsible for the decline in red squirrel and native song bird populations. Grey squirrels will often poach from song bird nests, taking and eating eggs whilst often destroying the nests. Being larger than the native red squirrel, the grey squirrel has out competed their red cousins. Grey squirrels possess the ability to eat unripe fruit and acorns, whereas the reds cannot. Grey squirrels are also carriers of squirrel pox, which is often fatal when transmitted to the red squirrel.

Grey squirrels can cause havoc in domestic, commercial and agricultural environments. They can often be found nesting in lofts, where they pose a significant fire hazard. This is because squirrels are part of the rodent family, this means that their incisor teeth are constantly growing and have to be constantly shortened through gnawing. Unfortunately, squirrels often target electrical cabling to gnaw on, which can lead to fires breaking out.

Do you have a squirrel problem?

If you believe you may have a squirrel problem in your domestic, commercial or agricultural premises, please read the following carefully:

  • NEVER corner or attempt to catch a squirrel – Although they appear cute, they can become very aggressive
  • NEVER attempt to treat squirrels with over the counter rodenticides – These are often very weak and could cause significant suffering to the animal. This could also be breaking the law (Protection of Mammals Act 1996)
  • ALWAYS seek professional advice as soon as you notice a squirrel in your property – They pose a serious fire hazard and need to be removed as soon as possible

Urban Jungle has a dedicated team of technicians who are specialists in dealing with squirrel infestations across London, Surrey,Sussex and Kent. Armed with a wealth of experience in the pest control industry (over 10 years!) and the best quality products available to professionals, they will swiftly and effectively control your squirrel problem, leaving you to enjoy your property again. We highly discourage the use of over the counter products to control rodents, this can be come very costly to you and could even make the infestation worse. We are so confident in our technicians, practises and products, that we even offer a 3 month guarantee at the end of the treatment.

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