As a homeowner, dealing with
unwanted visitors such as squirrels and mice is not an easy
task. Here are some tips for keeping your home and garden
rodent-free:
Keeping squirrels out of the garden
 Squirrels can destroy tree trunks. To prevent such
damage, wrap 24-inch wide aluminum flashing around the base
of the trunk. To attach the metal, use copper or stainless
steel nails or screws. Note that this solution only protects
stand-alone trees.
 Because squirrels get around by running across
tree canopies, trimming trees above fence lines and roofs
may deter them from traveling to your backyard.
 When planting flowers, put loose plastic mesh over
the flowerbeds. Your plants will still grow through the
mesh, but squirrels won't be able to dig through the soil.
 Install motion detector sprinklers so that every
time a squirrel runs across your yard, a burst of water will
surprise them and scare them away.
 In addition to plastic mesh coverings, create a
garden bed constructed of bricks, stones, or lumber. In the
spring, you'll be able to remove the mesh if need be.
 To discourage digging in your garden, sprinkle
ground chili peppers in your flower pots and garden beds.
Squirrels won't want to dig in the soil.
 A squirrel trap is another option to consider if
you really can't rid your garden of your uninvited guests -
squirrel repellant can also be effective in certain
situations.
Of Mice and Men
Here's how to keep mice out of your
home:
Mow your lawn regularly. Short grass deters mice,
as they do not like to travel through it.
Keep the perimeter of your house clutter-free.
Discard wood piles, trash, and other garbage. To properly
store wood piles, elevate them 18 inches above ground level.
As you clean away debris, be sure to wear clothing that
provides good coverage, such as long-sleeved shirts, long
pants, gloves, and boots.
Inspect vents and repair any screening that has
been damaged. Patch up holes with 16-20 gauge ¼ inch
hardware cloth and make sure everything is tightly fitted.
Where pipes enter the house, you will have to create a seal.
In wooden homes, sheet-metal collars should do the trick.
For stucco, stone, or brick, use cement fill.
Get rid of cracks around the foundation and eaves
by sealing with caulk or foam. You can also use steel wool.
Keep all food tightly sealed and stored away. Any
food out in the open will attract mice.
Don't vacuum or sweep the droppings. Instead,
spray droppings with chlorine bleach and wipe them up with
paper towels. Rodent urine and droppings can contain
viruses'.
Place mice traps near holes and in areas where you
have found mice.
 Remove trapped mice wearing thick gloves and place
in a plastic bag; dispose in an outside garbage can. |
