How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Garden

How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Garden

Squirrels are lively and entertaining visitors to many UK gardens, but they can sometimes become unwelcome guests. Whether they’re raiding bird feeders, digging up bulbs or nibbling on young plants, managing squirrels effectively can help protect your garden while respecting wildlife.

Understanding Squirrel Behaviour

Grey squirrels, the most common species in the UK, are agile and curious. They are attracted to gardens by easy access to food, shelter and nesting sites. They often raid bird feeders for seeds and nuts, dig up bulbs thinking they are food and strip bark from trees, which can damage plants.

Knowing when squirrels are most active, typically early morning and late afternoon, helps with timing deterrents.

Physical Barriers and Deterrents

Protecting plants and bird feeders is key. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders designed with cages or weight-activated mechanisms that close off access to larger animals. Placing feeders on poles with baffles can prevent squirrels from climbing up.

Cover young bulbs with wire mesh or plant them in dense clumps to make digging more difficult. Tree guards and wraps protect bark from chewing damage.

Creating barriers with netting or fencing can protect vegetable patches or fruit bushes, but ensure gaps are small enough to exclude squirrels.

Repellents and Natural Deterrents

Some gardeners use natural repellents such as sprays made from garlic, chilli or vinegar around vulnerable plants. These strong smells may discourage squirrels but need regular reapplication and may not work for persistent animals.

Motion-activated sprinklers or noise devices can startle squirrels and deter visits, though animals may get used to these over time.

Encouraging Predators

Encouraging natural predators like owls and hawks by installing nest boxes can help control squirrel populations naturally. These methods work best in larger gardens or rural areas.

Feeding Alternatives

Sometimes providing squirrels with their own food away from prized plants can reduce damage. Setting up a squirrel feeding station stocked with nuts may distract them from your garden.

Ethical Considerations

Squirrels are protected wildlife, and lethal methods are not permitted. Always use humane deterrents and seek advice if the problem is severe.

Final Thoughts

Managing squirrels in the garden requires patience and a combination of strategies. By protecting feeders, using barriers, trying natural repellents and encouraging predators, you can reduce unwanted visits while enjoying these charming creatures responsibly.