Squirrel Control &
Removal
Grey squirrels in your loft, roof, or garden cause serious structural damage and fire risk. Country Pest Solutions provides fast, effective squirrel removal across the North West — 7 days a week.
Why Grey Squirrels Are a Serious Pest
The grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) is a non-native invasive species in the UK, introduced from North America in the 19th century. Unlike the native red squirrel, grey squirrels are classified as a pest species and are not protected under UK wildlife law. In fact, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019, it is illegal to release a grey squirrel back into the wild once it has been trapped — meaning live-catch trapping must always be followed by humane dispatch.
Grey squirrels cause significant damage when they enter buildings. In loft spaces and roof voids, they gnaw through roof timbers, insulation, and — most dangerously — electrical wiring. Gnawed electrical cables are a leading cause of house fires attributed to pest activity. Squirrels also contaminate loft insulation with urine and droppings, damage stored items, and can be heard moving around in ceilings and walls, causing considerable disturbance to occupants.
In gardens, squirrels strip bark from trees, raid bird feeders, dig up bulbs, and damage vegetable plots. On farms and in orchards, they can cause significant economic damage to fruit crops and young trees.
Signs You Have Squirrels
Scratching or scurrying sounds in the loft or ceiling, particularly in the morning and late afternoon
Droppings in the loft — similar in size to a large rat dropping but more rounded at the ends
Gnawed roof timbers, insulation, or electrical cables in the loft space
A visible entry point in the roof — damaged fascia boards, gaps around roof tiles, or chewed soffit vents
Squirrels seen regularly on the roof or entering the eaves of the building
Stripped bark on garden trees, particularly around the base or on upper branches
The Legal Position on Grey Squirrel Control
Grey squirrels are listed under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as an invasive non-native species. It is a criminal offence to release a grey squirrel back into the wild once it has been trapped alive. This means that live-catch cage trapping — the method most commonly sold in DIY stores — legally requires the trapped squirrel to be humanely killed before release. Country Pest Solutions handles all legal requirements correctly and in full compliance with UK wildlife legislation.
Why DIY Squirrel Control Often Fails
Many homeowners attempt to deal with squirrels using live-catch cage traps purchased from DIY stores. While cage trapping can be effective in the right hands, DIY attempts frequently fail for several reasons. Traps placed in the wrong location, baited incorrectly, or left unchecked for too long are rarely successful. More importantly, most DIY users are unaware that releasing a trapped grey squirrel is illegal — and humanely dispatching a trapped animal requires both the knowledge and the means to do so correctly.
Proofing the entry point without first confirming all squirrels have been removed is another common mistake. Squirrels sealed inside a building will cause significantly more damage as they attempt to gnaw their way out, and a squirrel that dies inside a wall cavity will cause persistent odour problems for months.
Our Squirrel Control Process
Survey & Assessment
We inspect the property to confirm squirrel activity, identify entry points, assess the extent of any damage, and determine the most appropriate treatment method.
Trapping Programme
We place professional cage traps in the correct locations — inside the loft, along run routes, or at entry points — and bait them appropriately. Traps are checked regularly in accordance with animal welfare requirements.
Humane Dispatch
All trapped squirrels are humanely dispatched in full compliance with UK wildlife legislation. We handle this professionally so you do not have to.
Proofing & Exclusion
Once we are satisfied that all squirrels have been removed, we seal the entry points using professional-grade materials to prevent re-entry. We can also advise on tree management to reduce roof access.
Damage Assessment & Follow-Up
We advise on any damage to electrical wiring, insulation, or structural timbers that requires attention, and offer a follow-up visit to confirm the problem has been fully resolved.
Not Sure What Pest You Have?
Squirrel activity in a loft can sometimes be confused with rats or mice. Our pest identification guide covers the key differences in sounds, droppings, and damage patterns.
Read: How to Identify Your Pest ProblemSquirrel Control Across the North West
Squirrels in Your Loft?
Don't delay — squirrels gnaw electrical cables and cause fire risk. Call us now for fast, professional removal across the North West.
01744 382 482 07935 550 169Quick Answers
Is it legal to trap grey squirrels?
Yes — grey squirrels can be legally trapped and humanely killed. It is illegal to release a trapped grey squirrel back into the wild under UK law.
Can squirrels cause a house fire?
Yes. Squirrels gnaw electrical cables in loft spaces, which is a recognised cause of house fires. Any suspected cable damage should be inspected by an electrician.
How do squirrels get into the loft?
Squirrels typically enter through gaps around fascia boards, damaged soffit vents, or gaps where roof tiles meet the eaves. They are agile climbers and can access roofs via overhanging trees.
Will squirrels go away on their own?
No. Once squirrels have established a nesting site in a loft, they will continue to use it and the problem will worsen without intervention.
Do you proof the entry point after removal?
Yes — proofing is included in our squirrel control service. We seal entry points after confirming all squirrels have been removed.
Related Services
Squirrels in Your Property?
Don't wait — squirrel damage to electrical wiring is a serious fire risk. Call Country Pest Solutions today for fast, professional squirrel removal across the North West.