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The North American Grey Squirrel
The grey squirrel was introduced into Britain between 1876 and 1929 and has now largely replaced the native red squirrel in most areas of the UK.
What do Grey Squirrels look like?
Size: The adult is approximately 250 mm long, with a tail 230 mm. It weighs about 500 grams.
Colour: As the name suggests they are grey in colour.
Habitat
Squirrels can survive in copses, shrubs or hedgerows which provide cover (this includes suburban parks and gardens). They have long been recognised as a pest in woodland areas but they are also a problem in domestic situations.
Breeding
There are two breeding seasons each year.
Each litter averages 3 to 4 young. Dreys are usually constructed in the fork of a tree between 2 and 15 metres above ground level. The drey is lined with moss, grass or animal fur.
What they Eat
Squirrels are mainly vegetarian and eat the seeds of most types of trees, fruits and berries, buds and young shoots, but on occasion they will eat grain, fungi, birds eggs and young nestlings.
Signs that squirrels are present include:
What problems do they cause?
How can I control them?
If squirrels are infesting a roof space, they can be denied access by sealing up access routes using chicken wire securely fixed in place, however, make sure there are no young or adult squirrels in the roof space before carrying out proofing works. Carrying out proofing in November or December will avoid the breeding season.
If this can't be achieved then it is best to contact a pest control company.
Pest Control
Elmbridge Borough Council does not offer a service for dealing with infestations of squirrels, but we can provide information on|alternative Pest Control Companies who may undertake this work for you.
For more information: