When it comes to rodents or pests, look no further than the squirrel. These creatures show little care for their adventurous self. Dodging traffic and jumping from tree limb to tree limb is their forte. Not to mention, racing across a fence with very little room to navigate. You would think that a squirrel’s adventurous side greatly enhances its chances of death. Unfortunately, not all squirrels escape danger without harm. How long do squirrels live? Depending on the species of the squirrel will determine how long a squirrel lives. Life expectancy varies.
Let’s take a look below at some more details regarding squirrels.
What Are The Different Types Of Squirrels?
Believe it or not, there are over 200 species of squirrels. They are categorized into three main groups: tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and flying squirrels. Depending on what part of the country you live in will determine which type of squirrel you might come across. Keep in mind that squirrels are meant to be wild animals. However, some people purchase them at exotic pet stores to keep at their homes. We will look at the life expectancy of 4 main squirrel types.
How Long Do Squirrels Live?
It is said that roughly half of the squirrels in a population will die every year. They are prey just like most rodents or pests and often become yummy meals for a variety of predators. Hawks, coyotes, bobcats, snakes, owls, disease, parasites, falling, and miscalculations with a motor vehicle are the many causes of death. Let’s take a look below at some specifics regarding each squirrel species’ life span and expectancy.
- Eastern Gray Squirrel – This creature has a life expectancy of 2 years. However, if they are lucky to evade danger, they have been known to live up to 12 years in the wild. Also, it is documented that these squirrels in captivity have lived between 18 years and 20 years.
- Red Squirrel – This type of squirrel is known to have a life expectancy of 5 years in the wild. In some cases, they have been known to live up to 9 years.
- Fox Squirrel – This squirrel is known to have a life expectancy of 6 to 7 years. However, their average lifespan is between 3 to 4 years.
- Ground Squirrel – Native to California, the ground squirrel has a life expectancy of 3 to 4 years. However, it has been seen living as long as 6 years. Also, in captivity, it has been documented to live 10 years.
How Much Does It Cost?
Getting rid of squirrels from your yard and keeping them away can be rather expensive. They are so elusive and look to devour any food in or around your yard. The national average spent to keep squirrels from your yard is between $250 and $500. Depending on the required removal service, you could end up paying upwards of $1,500 before the task is accomplished.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you are aware of the life expectancy of various types of squirrels you can look into what attracts squirrels to your yard. Being able to limit the amount of attraction will keep the squirrels away.
Next, while you have your local pest control inspection team out checking the home for squirrel prevention, you could also have them conduct a termite inspection. Read up on what a termite inspection is before they arrive. This allows you to ask the proper questions and get a better understanding of what they are looking for.
Lastly, read up on how often pest control should be done. This information will be a helpful reminder to you in case you are missing a few months of service. Keep in mind that a lapse in service could cause bigger issues down the road.
When Do I Call A Professional?
Dealing with squirrels is not something a homeowner should do on their own. Additionally, trying to keep track of how old the squirrels in your yard are is not necessarily a good use of time. Reach out to your local pest control company to assist you with getting the squirrels out of your yard and keeping them out. They can recommend the best ways to keep squirrels off your property and away from your home.
Conclusion
If you are noticing an increase in squirrel traffic around your home, it is likely due to food and shelter. Living near a wooded area will always attract squirrels. Putting out a bird feeder with seed will also attract squirrels. Also, putting out a bird bath with water will attract squirrels. Keep all plants and trees around your home maintained. You wouldn’t want squirrels jumping onto your roof and finding a way into your attic space or home. Reach out to All South Pest Control can determine your pest service needs in McDonough, GA, and the surrounding areas.
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