Why You Shouldn't Touch A Squirrel?

Few rodents have a more charming and innocent appearance than squirrels. Their soft coats, gleaming eyes, and fluffy tails make them almost irresistible, especially when it comes to feeding and attempting to tame them. However, while some squirrels in the Milwaukee area may have little fear of humans, trying to pet or handle them can lead to some serious consequences. We at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control are here to offer you information about this rodent's behavior and why you may want to avoid touching them, as well as squirrel removal services  for your home or property. 

1. They Usually Carry Parasites

While you might be tempted to interact with squirrels that visit your backyard bird feeders or nest in your trees, it is a wise choice to keep your distance because of the parasites squirrels can carry. They may be host to several different types of biting or bloodsucking parasites, including: 

• Ticks 
• Fleas 
• Bot flies 

A squirrel may also transfer these parasites to your dog or cat, and treatments can be costly. Fleas and ticks are also difficult to eradicate once they get indoors and into your pet's bedding. 

2. They May Bite or Scratch

Watching a squirrel's comical behavior may lead you to believe it will be as friendly to you as you want to be to it, but in reality, most will bite or scratch if you insist on an interaction. Like most rodents, squirrels have incredibly sharp teeth, which can cause a serious bite. Scratches and bites can also become infected, as these mammals carry bacteria on their coats, teeth, and claws.  If you want to interact with a squirrel at a park or in your yard, leave the food where they can reach it but avoid touching any animal directly. You can also hang a squirrel feeder near a window and observe them from your favorite chair. This can help keep you safe while you enjoy viewing these wild animals and their fascinating behavior. 

3. They May Nest In Your Home 

Squirrels are quite intelligent and learn your routines and intentions quickly. Once you feed one squirrel, it may return with others and then eventually find its way into your attic. Overhanging tree branches make excellent tools for squirrels who want to access your roof and then get into your attic. They are accomplished gnawers and can cause a great deal of damage to your roof by prying up tiles and flashing before chewing their way inside. Insulation, cardboard, and stuffing from stored furniture all make fine nesting material for these rodents as they settle behind your walls. 

4. They Can Cause Foraging Damage 

Once squirrels lose their fear of humans, they may become bolder and begin foraging on your property. They can knock over bird feeders, get into your pet's food and dig up your garden once they realize you planted edible items there. They might also shed fleas and ticks near your pet's outdoor area or in places where your kids play, which increases the chances of a parasite infestation.  If you notice an overpopulation of squirrels on your property, then consider calling us for wildlife control in Milwaukee. Our experienced technicians will remove any living specimens from your home and yard and then inspect both for entrance points. They can also seal up any entrance ways made by these rodents and offer you tips for discouraging their return, such as storing pet food in metal containers with screw-on lids and trimming back overhanging tree branches so squirrels cannot access your roof.  Squirrels are fluffy, animated animals that seem friendly, but like any wild animal, they can pose a hazard to your home and family. Contact us via our website or call our toll-free number today to keep squirrels out in the wild where they belong.