Squirrel Behaviour

Squirrel Behaviour: The Key to Effective Grey Squirrel Pest Control in the UK

 

Grey squirrels are commonly seen throughout UK woodlands, public parks, and residential gardens. Although they often seem harmless, understanding how they behave is vital for carrying out humane, lawful, and effective pest control.

This detailed guide examines grey squirrel species, their habits, preferred habitats, and the behavioural traits that influence compliant pest management practices across the UK.

Know Your Squirrel: Species and Habitats

Types of Squirrels in the UK

• Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): An invasive, non-native species that has spread across much of the UK, largely displacing the native red squirrel through competition.
• Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris): A native species that is now endangered, primarily because of competition with grey squirrels and diseases they transmit.
• Other Species: Flying squirrels, prairie dogs, and similar rodents are not found in the UK.

 

Where Do Squirrels Live?

Grey squirrels flourish in environments that provide reliable food sources and safe shelter, including:

• Deciduous woodland and mixed forest habitats
• Urban parks, gardens, rooftops, and lofts
• Tree canopies, chimneys, and loft areas where they construct nests known as dreys

Did you know?

Grey squirrels create both permanent and temporary dreys, commonly placing them in high tree forks or within roof voids.

Behavioural Patterns That Matter

Daily Routine

Grey squirrels are diurnal—active during daylight. Their typical day includes:

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

Feeding and Caching

Grey squirrels are opportunistic foragers, eating:

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

They store food by burying it in the soil or concealing it inside tree cavities to recover during the winter months.

Communication and Signals

Squirrels communicate using:

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

“Squirrel alarm calls are more complex than previously thought. They can communicate urgency, type of threat, and even direction.” — Wildlife Online

 

Social and Mating 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 Grey Squirrels Are a Pest in the UK

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 Considerations for Squirrel Control

Grey squirrels are classified under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2019. Within the UK:

• It is illegal to release a trapped grey squirrel. Any captured grey squirrel must be humanely dispatched.
• Professional assistance is strongly recommended to ensure legal compliance and humane treatment.

Source: BPCA: Grey Squirrel Control

Physical Traits and Urban Adaptations

Grey squirrels possess several features that allow them to thrive in both countryside and urban locations:

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

Urban settings offer abundant food and nesting opportunities, making lofts and bird feeders especially attractive.

Smart, Behaviour-Based Squirrel Control

Why Behaviour Matters

Successful squirrel control depends on 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

Understanding these behaviours allows for well-planned, humane, and legally compliant control measures.

 

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

 

Squirrel Facts: Commonly 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

Understanding the behaviour of grey squirrels is essential for carrying out pest control that is effective, lawful, and humane in the UK. Recognising their daily routines, social behaviour, and ability to adapt helps you make informed decisions to safeguard your property, garden, and native wildlife.

For professional, legally compliant assistance, contact Apex Pest Control in South Yorkshire to arrange support from a BPCA-certified and NPTA-registered pest control specialist.