How To Get Rid Of A Squirrel In The Gutter

Though they may be cute from a distance, squirrels can be quite bothersome when they reside in your gutters. Oftentimes, squirrels will use tree branches as bridges to get to your home's roof. They'll then make nests in the gutters. If you have squirrels in your gutters, you'll likely hear scratching noises regularly. Squirrels can seriously damage your gutters and roofs over time. Thankfully, you can get rid of a squirrel in your gutter quite easily.

Step 1

Trim all tree branches that surround your home. Since squirrels often use branches to get to your home, you'll eliminate their means of getting to the gutters by trimming those branches. Keep all branches at least 15 feet away from your home.

Step 2

Clean your gutters. Use a hose to spray down the gutters, flushing leaves, twigs and nests from them. You may have to remove some chunks of leaves manually.

Step 3

Install gutter toppers. These wire contraptions line the top of your gutters, preventing leaves and other debris from accumulating in the gutters. Only water will then seep down to the actual gutter. Gutter toppers also prevent squirrels from making nests and resting in your gutters. You can find gutter toppers at most hardware stores.

Step 4

Place moth balls in your gutters. Squirrels do not like the smell of moth balls and will generally stay away from them. Keep moth balls away from children and pets as they are poisonous.

Step 5

Put a squirrel trap on your roof. You can find squirrel traps at most hardware stores. Place a spoonful of peanut butter in the trap to attract the squirrel. Most traps do not harm the squirrel, but merely trap him inside. Call animal control to come pick up the squirrel once you have trapped it.

Step 6

Contact a pest control specialist if you are unable to get rid of the squirrel on your own. A professional can set up custom traps to catch the squirrel.