Seeing a dead squirrel in yard can be unsettling, but handling the situation carefully is essential. The best approach is to safely remove the dead squirrel to prevent the spread of disease and avoid attracting other wildlife. You should use gloves and dispose of the animal according to local regulations.

Dead squirrels can pose health risks due to parasites or illnesses they might carry. Leaving a dead squirrel in your yard could attract scavengers or insects that could become a nuisance. Taking prompt action protects your household and maintains a clean outdoor space.

Identifying and Removing Dead Squirrels in Your Yard

It is essential to know how to detect a dead squirrel in yard and handle it safely. You must recognize signs quickly to reduce health risks and follow proper removal and disposal methods to protect yourself and the environment.

How to Spot a Dead Squirrel in Yard

A dead squirrel in your yard may lie motionless on its side or back, often in an unusual location such as the middle of a path or lawn. You might notice a foul odor if the body has been there for a while.

Look for signs like fur matted with blood or visible injuries. Dead squirrels often attract flies or other scavengers. If you see a squirrel not moving after observing for a few minutes, it is likely deceased.

Steps to Safely Remove a Dead Squirrel

Before handling a dead squirrel in your yard, wear disposable gloves to avoid direct contact with bodily fluids and possible parasites.

Cover your hand with a plastic bag. Carefully pick up the squirrel and place it inside a double plastic bag. Avoid touching your face during the process.

After disposal, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, even if you wore gloves. Disinfect tools or surfaces the squirrel contacted with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).

Proper Disposal Methods

Check local wildlife or health regulations before disposal, as rules vary. Typically, you can bury the dead squirrel in your yard at least 2 feet deep, away from vegetable gardens or water sources.

Alternatively, place the double-bagged carcass in outdoor trash bins on collection days to prevent animals from accessing it. Never leave dead squirrels exposed, as they can spread disease.

If permitted, contacting animal control or a wildlife removal service can ensure safe and legal disposal.

Prevention and Safety Tips Regarding Dead Squirrels

When you find a dead squirrel in your yard, handling it carefully and taking proper safety measures is crucial. This involves understanding health risks, cleaning procedures, and ways to minimize future occurrences.

Health Risks from Dead Squirrels

Dead squirrels can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and tularemia, as well as parasites like fleas or ticks. These pose risks through direct contact or exposure to fluids. You should avoid touching the animal with your bare hands.

If you must handle the squirrel, always wear disposable gloves and limit skin contact. Keep pets and children away from the area until it is cleaned. If you experience any unusual symptoms after exposure, seek medical attention promptly.

Cleaning and Sanitizing Affected Areas

First, put on gloves and use a plastic bag to pick up the dead squirrel. Seal the bag tightly. Avoid using a vacuum or broom to prevent spreading pathogens in the air.

Disinfect the spot with a bleach solution—mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Apply it to the area and allow it to dry thoroughly. Clean any tools used with the bleach solution as well. Dispose of gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Preventing Future Incidents in Your Yard

Remove food sources like birdseed or unsecured trash to reduce the number of dead squirrels in your yard. Keep trash bins tightly closed, and clear fallen fruit or nuts regularly.

You can also trim trees and branches near your home to reduce easy access. Installing fencing or deterrents can help keep squirrels away from sensitive areas. Regular yard maintenance reduces risks and limits the chances of squirrels dying near your property.

Getting Rid of Squirrels in Your Yard

Squirrels can damage your yard and sometimes cause dead squirrels to be found in your yard. To minimize their presence, remove food sources like bird feeders, fallen nuts, and accessible trash.

You can also protect your garden by using barriers such as mesh fencing or netting around plants. Squirrel repellents, available as sprays or granules, may help, but usually require frequent reapplication.

Trapping is an option, but it should be done humanely. Live traps can capture squirrels and allow you to relocate them far from your property.

When you encounter a dead squirrel in your yard, removing it promptly using gloves to avoid health risks is essential. Then, dispose of it in a sealed bag according to local regulations.

Professional assistance is advisable if you find multiple dead squirrels or suspect an infestation. Critter Stop specializes in humane and effective wildlife removal.

Critter Stop has built a strong reputation with excellent customer feedback due to its thorough inspections, quality service, and respectful treatment of wildlife. Call Critter Stop at (214) 234-2616 for a free inspection and help solving your wildlife or pest removal problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dealing with a dead squirrel in your yard requires timely action to avoid health risks and unwanted pests. Knowing who to contact and understanding why dead squirrels appear after storms helps you manage the situation appropriately.

What should I do if I find a dead squirrel in my yard early in the morning?

If you need to remove the dead squirrel in your yard, avoid direct contact and wear gloves. Place it in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it according to local regulations. Clean the area with disinfectant to prevent disease spread.

Can dead squirrels attract other wildlife or pests to my property?

Yes, dead squirrels in the yard can attract scavengers such as raccoons, foxes, or vultures. Insects like flies and maggots are also drawn to the carcass. Prompt removal helps reduce the risk of attracting unwanted animals.

Who should I call to remove a dead squirrel in my yard safely and legally?

Contact your local animal control or wildlife removal service to handle dead squirrels in your yard. They follow safety and legal guidelines for disposal. Professional removal minimizes health risks and environmental impact.

Why do dead squirrels in the yard sometimes appear after heavy storms or wind?

Storms and strong winds can displace squirrels, causing injuries or death. Fallen branches or debris may injure squirrels, leading to dead squirrels in the yard. Storms also expose hidden carcasses that were previously out of sight.

Are there health risks associated with handling dead squirrels without protection?

Yes, dead squirrels can carry diseases such as leptospirosis and parasites. Handling a dead squirrel in your yard without gloves increases your risk of infection. Always use protective gear and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.