How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Trees

Squirrels scurrying up trees and leaping from branch to branch may look cute and harmless, but they can cause serious property damage. As agile climbers, squirrels often take up residence in trees, where they can chew through wooden fixtures, destroy gardens, and cause power outages by gnawing through wires. Getting rid of squirrels in trees requires patience and persistence, but there are several methods you can try to make your yard less hospitable to these cheeky rodents

Why Squirrels Nest in Trees

Squirrels are highly adaptable creatures that thrive in urban and suburban neighborhoods. Mature trees provide ideal shelter for squirrels, offering cavities and sturdy branches for nest building. Backyards also provide access to abundant food sources, including bird feeders, vegetable gardens, and fruit trees. Once squirrels take up residence in a tree, they are notoriously difficult to evict completely. Their nests, called dreys, are usually built high up in the canopy or inside cavities, keeping them safe from predators. A female squirrel may give birth to several litters throughout the year, so if you notice one squirrel, there are likely more nearby.

Prevent Squirrels from Climbing Trees

The best solution is to make it harder for squirrels to access trees in the first place Here are some tactics to try

Install Squirrel Baffles

Baffles are cone-shaped barriers that you install around tree trunks or poles. They prevent squirrels from climbing up by creating a slippery angled surface that the squirrels cannot grip. Baffles come in plastic and metal and are available at most hardware stores. For larger trees, wrap a 2-foot section of sheet metal around the trunk about 6 feet off the ground. Make sure the baffle or metal barrier extends at least 2 feet out from the trunk in all directions.

Apply Repellents

Squirrel repellents create unpleasant textures or scents that deter squirrels from climbing onto surfaces. Try using a sticky paste like polybutene, which makes tree bark too tacky for squirrels to grip. You can also sprinkle or spray pungent repellents like capsaicin, the chemical found in chili peppers. Reapply repellents frequently, especially after rainstorms.

Install Fences

A fence with a curved top that extends at least 3 feet out from trees can prevent squirrels from jumping onto branches. Bury the bottom portion at least 6 inches underground to stop squirrels from digging underneath. For chain link fencing, add a tension wire along the top. Electric fences also work to shock and startle squirrels that try to climb over them.

Trim Back Branches

If squirrels have access to trees on your property from telephone lines or neighboring trees, trim back any branches within 6 to 8 feet. Without any connections, squirrels cannot jump over to gain access. Discuss trimming plans with your local utility company before cutting back branches near power lines.

Scare Them with Predator Sounds

Try frightening squirrels away from trees by playing broadcasts of predator noises, like hawks, owls, or bobcats. You can find collections of these threatening sounds online to download or play through outdoor speakers. Just be aware the noises may also scare away other backyard wildlife.

Remove Food Sources That Attract Squirrels

Even if you successfully block squirrels from climbing up trees, they will continue trying to get in if your yard offers irresistible food sources. Eliminate anything that provides food to reduce temptation.

• Take down bird feeders or choose squirrel-resistant styles. Also clean up any fallen seed beneath feeders.

• Install non-chewable metal guards around the trunks of fruit and nut trees.

• Remove fallen fruits, nuts, and cones from around trees.

• Keep trash cans securely closed and avoid compost piles, which can attract insects squirrels eat.

• Protect vegetable gardens with fences and only plant squirrel-resistant flowers like daffodils.

• Avoid feeding pets outside, which can leave food scraps behind.

Remove Existing Squirrel Nests

If squirrels have already set up dens inside tree cavities or branches, work on evicting current residents and dismantling nests to prevent future occupancy.

• Seal entry holes with steel mesh once you are certain squirrels are gone. For cavities, insert a one-way door first, then seal it shut once squirrels exit.

• Pull down dreys you can reach using a long pole. Wear thick gloves to protect from bites.

• Consider trimming back small branches and limbs with nests built on them.

• Consult a professional tree service if nests are very high up or located in tricky areas to reach.

Use Traps as a Last Resort

Trapping should not be your first solution, since removing food sources and restricting access are more effective in the long run. If squirrels persist, humane live cages and release traps allow you to catch and relocate squirrels away from your property. Set traps on branches and near entry holes early in the morning or at dusk when squirrels are most active. Bait traps with walnuts, pecans, peanut butter, or fresh fruit. Once trapped, release the squirrel at least 5 miles from your home in a rural wooded area.

Some key considerations when trapping tree squirrels:

• Inspect traps frequently so you can release non-target animals like birds.

• Be aware trapping and relocating squirrels may be illegal in some states. Check your local regulations.

• Releasing squirrels too close to homes risks them finding their way back or becoming a problem elsewhere.

• Relocated squirrels have lower survival rates due to competition for resources in unfamiliar habitats.

Call In Professional Help

For severe squirrel infestations or nests in tall trees that are challenging to service, calling a professional may be your best bet for permanent removal. Wildlife control companies have the expertise and equipment to:

• Identify entry points and seal up holes.

• Safely dismantle dreys and nests.

• Install commercial-grade exclusion solutions.

• Trap squirrels without harming them.

• Clean up droppings, nesting materials, and damage.

• Offer preventative maintenance to inhibit re-entry.

Look for licensed companies with training in humane squirrel exclusion. Getting rid of every squirrel is nearly impossible, but following these tips can help limit the population in your yard and minimize unwanted damage. With diligence, you can reclaim your trees and keep the squirrels where they belong—out in the forest.