Squirrel Behaviour: The Secret to Successful Grey Squirrel Pest Control in the UK

In UK parks, urban gardens, and woodlands, grey squirrels are a common sight. Despite their endearing appearance, humane, legal, and efficient pest treatment requires an understanding of their conduct.

The species, habitats, behaviours, and behavioural patterns of grey squirrels that influence legal pest control methods in the UK are all covered in this extensive book.

Understand the Species and Habitats of Squirrels

Squirrel Types in the United Kingdom

• Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): Non-native and invasive, the grey squirrel has become dominant across much of the UK, outcompeting the native red squirrel.
• Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris): Native but now endangered, mainly due to competition and disease spread by grey squirrels.
• Other Species: Flying squirrels, prairie dogs, and similar rodents are not found in the UK.

Where Do Squirrels Live?

Areas that provide food and shelter are ideal for grey squirrels, including:

• Deciduous woodlands and mixed forests
• Urban parks, rooftops, lofts, and gardens
• Tree canopies, loft spaces, and chimneys (for nesting, known as “dreys”)

Did you know?

Both temporary and permanent dreys are constructed by grey squirrels, frequently in attic spaces or on high tree forks.

Important Patterns of Behaviour

Everyday Activities

Grey squirrels are active during the day since they are diurnal. Typical days for them consist of:

• Early morning foraging
• Midday resting
• Late afternoon food storage and return to nests

Caching and Feeding

As opportunistic foragers, grey squirrels consume:

• Nuts (acorns, hazelnuts)
• Seeds, bark, fruit, fungi
• Occasionally bird eggs and insects

For winter recovery, they store food in tree hollows or bury it in the ground.

Signals and Communication

Squirrels communicate using:

• High-pitched alarm calls to warn of predators
• Tail flicking to signal aggression, fear, or alertness

“The complexity of squirrel alarm cries is more than previously believed. They are able to convey direction, danger kind, and urgency. - Online Wildlife”

Mating and Social Behaviour

• Largely solitary except during mating season
• Dominance hierarchies influence territory and food access
• Females raise young (called “kits” or “pups”) alone, usually in spring and summer

Why the UK Is Affected by Grey Squirrels?

Impact Area

Description

Ecological

• Outcompete native red squirrels for food and habitat
• Transmit squirrelpox virus, deadly to red squirrels
• Reduce woodland biodiversity and disrupt regeneration by stripping bark from
  trees, leading to tree death and loss of habitat for other species

Economic

• Estimated annual cost of £37 million in England and Wales due to lost timber
  value, reduced carbon sequestration, and control measures
• Damage to commercial forestry, orchards, and crops

Structural Damage

• Chew through loft insulation, electrical wiring, timber, and property structures
• Access attics, roof spaces, and damage soffits and fascias

Garden & Agricultural Damage

• Dig up bulbs and corms
• Steal bird food and strip bark from ornamental and fruit trees
• Damage fruit and maize crops

Wildlife Impact

• Prey on birds’ eggs and nestlings, impacting some woodland bird species
• Compete with other small mammals (e.g., hazel dormouse) for food resources

Noise & Nuisance

• Create daytime noise in attics and roof spaces
• Leave droppings and nest

Legal Aspects of Squirrel Management

The 2019 Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order includes grey squirrels on its list. In the United Kingdom:

• Releasing a grey squirrel that has been trapped is against the law. Grey squirrels must be humanely released if they are caught.
• It is highly advised to seek professional help to guarantee both compassionate treatment and legal compliance.

Source: BPCA: Grey Squirrel Control

Physical Characteristics and Urban Adjustments

Both urban and rural settings are suitable for grey squirrels:

• Strong hind legs for jumping
• Sharp claws for climbing
• Constantly growing incisors for gnawing
• Long, bushy tail for balance and warmth

Lofts and bird feeders are particularly appealing in urban areas since there is an abundance of food and nesting chances.

Intelligent, Behavior-Based Squirrel Management

Why Behaviour Matters

Effective squirrel control requires understanding:

• When they are active: Daylight hours
• Where they nest: High, quiet areas like lofts and trees
• What they eat and hoard: Nuts, seeds, suet

This knowledge helps you plan strategic, humane, and legally compliant interventions.

Prevention Tips

• Seal roof gaps and soffits larger than 25mm
• Install metal mesh and exclusion devices
• Prune overhanging tree limbs
• Use squirrel-proof bird feeders
• Keep gardens tidy to reduce attractants

DIY vs Professional Control

Method

Pros

Cons

DIY Deterrents

• Lower cost
• Non-lethal and low-risk for householders
• Easy to implement (e.g., exclusion, deterrent sprays, squirrel-proof
  feeders)
• Often ineffective for established infestations
• May not address root causes (entry points, food sources)
• Does not resolve legal obligations for humane control
• Cannot legally trap and release grey squirrels (illegal under UK law)

Professional Pest Control

• Ensures compliance with UK laws and humane dispatch requirements
• BPCA or RSPH qualified technicians
• Effective long-term solutions and prevention advice
• Risk assessment and safe use of approved methods
• Higher upfront cost
• Requires scheduling and property access

“Without addressing entry points and behaviour, squirrel control is a losing battle.” — BPCA Certified Technician

Facts About Squirrels: Frequently Asked Questions

How long do grey squirrels live?

Most wild grey squirrels live 2–4 years, though they can reach 10–12 years in ideal conditions.

Can squirrels swim?

Yes, grey squirrels can swim, using their tails for steering, though they generally avoid water.

What are baby squirrels called?

They are known as “kits” or “pups.”

Are squirrels nocturnal?

No, grey squirrels are diurnal and active during the day.

What is a group of squirrels called?

A group is called a “scurry” or “dray.”

How do I know if I have squirrels in my loft?

Look for gnawed timbers, rodent droppings, and daytime scratching noises.

Can I remove a squirrel myself in the UK?

You must comply with UK law: it is illegal to release a captured grey squirrel. Humane dispatch is required, and professional help is strongly advised.

What’s the best deterrent for garden squirrels?

Use capsaicin-based sprays, ultrasonic repellents, and squirrel-proof feeders.

Summary and Final Thoughts

Comprehending the behaviour of grey squirrels is essential for ethical, efficient, and lawful pest control in the UK. Understanding their social patterns, routines, and adaptability will help you take proactive measures to save native species, your garden, and your house.

For skilled, legally compliant assistance, get in touch with Apex Pest Control in South Yorkshire, a BPCA-certified and NPTA-registered pest control company.