When implementing an exclusion to get rid of squirrels, you’ll eventually need some kind of one-way squirrel door or one-way squirrel funnel.
If you have squirrels in your attic or shed, remove them. Many folks don’t realize it, but squirrels in attics will sometimes chew on electrical cabling, starting fires. Additionally, if a squirrel family lives in your attic, they’ll leave behind a significant amount of squirrel droppings. To remove squirrels from your attic, you or a wildlife removal expert will need to install a one-way door for squirrels (this method is also used for other animals like bats or raccoons in attics).
One-way squirrel doors let squirrels out while preventing them from re-entering your attic or home. Although should only be used as part of a broader plan, a one-way door is a must-have. One-way squirrel doors are a humane and effective way to ensure your home is completely emptied of squirrels before you seal up their entryways.
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Purchasing one-way squirrel doors
There are a variety of one-way squirrel doors sold commercially. You may have to order one from an online supplier. Keep in mind that there are many one-way animal traps on the market, but squirrel one-way doors are slightly different.
Squirrel doors are open on both ends and designed so the end opposite the door can be attached to the squirrels’ primary exit point from your house (often a hole slightly larger than a quarter).
When fastened properly to the side of your house, squirrels can scurry down the trap and out the one-way door. The one-way door closes behind the squirrel and leaves them unable to get back in.
Most commercial doors resemble wire traps but some are even simpler. Many homeowners have success with simple wooden boxes that screw onto the side of the house, and a small hinged door covers the box. Squirrels hop down and can’t lift the lid to get back in.
Squirrels are adept at squeezing into small spaces, which is why you have this problem in the first place, so make sure whatever trap you use is vetted and approved by other consumers before you take the time to install it.
DIY one-way squirrel doors and squirrel funnels
The internet is full of different types of instructions on how to make your own squirrel doors. Most suggest using either a wire mesh or plastic netting, similar to the kind used in construction fencing. The wire mesh can be fixed up into a trap similar to those sold in stores. The problem with this is you may not be able to construct an effective door; squirrels could become caught in the mechanism or break back in if it isn’t made properly.
A netted “door” might be the best way to make your own squirrel exclusion device. The net is simply secured into a funnel shape that is big enough at the end for the squirrels to exit but small enough that the material closes back on itself after a squirrel passes through. The end are then attached securely around the squirrels’ exit/entrance opening. This is a great option if you find the squirrel colony is trespassing through an awkward part of your house’s architecture, like at the corner of your eaves. If you are having trouble figuring out how to attach a large wire cage to the opening, a netted door might be your best choice.
One Part of the Exclusion Process
Alabama A&M and Auburn’s extension recommends a commercially available one-way squirrel door or a homemade one-way squirrel funnel as one method in a more comprehensive plan of action for expelling squirrels.
It will often take more than just a one-way squirrel door to take care of your squirrel infestation. By reading about squirrel control you can learn how to properly seal your home to prevent squirrels from returning and learn more about other things that frequently attract squirrels to homes.
You now know how to implement a squirrel exclusion door. Whether you make your own door, purchase a door, or use the equipment recommended by your pest control expert, best of luck to you in removing squirrels from your home.
