How to Get a Squirrel From a String Light 
If you have a squirrel problem, the best solution is to get rid of the affected string and replace it with a new one. The following methods may help you with your problem. The video below shows how to get rid of a larger squirrel from string lights. You can also try a trick known as predator urine. If you don’t want to use predator urine, live trapping is an effective way to solve your problem.
Predator urine is a tried and true way to get squirrels out of your yard
Unlike most repellents, predator urine is a real animal, not a diluted mixture of household chemicals. It works by making the squirrel think it is being attacked by a predator. The scent of predator urine is strong and lasts longer than most natural irritant sprays. If you’re worried about the smell, you can combine a few drops of peppermint oil with natural laundry detergent to create a DIY spray.
The scent of predator urine can deter squirrels, including gray squirrels. These animals know predator urine smells and stay away from yards with it. However, commercial repellents can also deter squirrels because they contain the same odor. Unlike predator urine, squirrels can’t distinguish between the fake smell of a commercial repellent and the real thing, so if the smell is similar, they won’t come near the area.
Changing the taste of the lights
When a squirrel decides to gnaw on your string lights, the first thing to do is to remove the affected ones and replace them with a fresh set. This will get rid of the squirrel problem once and for all. You may also want to remove the affected bulbs. However, you should avoid feeding the squirrel as it might cause problems with the other bulbs. Changing the taste of string lights can be tricky, so it is important to understand the basics of it.
If you’re not sure how to get rid of squirrels, consider changing the flavor of your string lights. Many squirrels mistake string lights for acorns. Because they look so similar to acorns, they may mistake them for nuts. Because Christmas lights fall in the fall, squirrels are not particularly hungry when the season arrives. Therefore, they may bury their treasures without testing them for edible properties.
Live trapping squirrels
You can make your trap more effective by chumming the area around the string lights. When the squirrels smell the chumming, they are more likely to approach the trap. If you see the same behavior with a different string light, try a different location. After all, it may take several attempts to catch one squirrel. And don’t forget to check the trap periodically to make sure that it’s still working.
In Virginia, live trapping is illegal. Live trapping does more harm than good to the wild animal. Relocated mammals may not find food, water, or shelter, and they may die before acclimating. Furthermore, they can be poisonous to raptors and domestic pets. Therefore, live trapping is not a good solution. However, if you feel that live trapping is necessary, you can set the lights at least 30 feet away from the area.
Changing the location of the lights
To get squirrels away from your string lights, you must first know what attracts them. In general, they tend to be attracted to oblong Christmas lights (also known as C7 and C9), which resemble acorns. Once you have identified the culprits, you can try to change the location of the lights to deter them. If the squirrels still keep coming back to your string lights, consider changing the position of the lights.
Squirrels are known for their chewing behavior. They will chew anything that catches their eye, which includes Christmas lights. They have never-ending teeth, and they need to constantly wear down their enamel. If they can get ahold of your lights, it is likely they’ll continue to gnaw on them. Therefore, you can try changing the location of your lights to keep the squirrel from accessing the lights.
What is the best way to get a squirrel off of your string lights?
The best way to get a squirrel off of your string lights is to use a ladder to reach the squirrel and gently remove it from the lights.
What should you do if you find a squirrel in your home?
You should contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control to safely remove the squirrel from your home.
How can you prevent squirrels from getting on your string lights in the first place?
You can prevent squirrels from getting on your string lights by hanging the lights in an area that is not easily accessible to squirrels such as high up on a fence or in the middle of a tree.
Do squirrels like string lights?
Some squirrels may be attracted to the light and heat emitted from string lights while others may not be interested in them at all.
Why do squirrels chew on string lights?
Squirrels may chew on string lights because they are looking for food or they may simply be curious and want to explore the object.
What kind of damage can squirrels do to string lights?
Squirrels can damage string lights by chewing on the cords which can lead to a short circuit and a possible fire hazard.
Is it safe to use string lights if there are squirrels in the area?
If you are using string lights that are not damaged and the squirrels are not chewing on the cords then it is safe to use them.
What should you do with string lights that have been damaged by squirrels?
You should replace any damaged string lights as soon as possible to prevent a fire hazard.
Can squirrels electrocute themselves by chewing on string lights?
Yes squirrels can electrocute themselves by chewing on string lights.
How often should you check your string lights for damage?
You should check your string lights for damage every few days or as often as possible to prevent a fire hazard.
What happens if a squirrel chews through a string of lights and they are left on?
If a squirrel chews through a string of lights and they are left on the current will flow through the squirrel’s body and electrocute it.
Is it illegal to kill a squirrel?
It is generally illegal to kill a squirrel as they are protected under state and federal law.
What is the best way to deter squirrels from chewing on string lights?
The best way to deter squirrels from chewing on string lights is to use a squirrel-proof variety of string lights.
What is the best way to remove a squirrel that has died after chewing on string lights?
The best way to remove a squirrel that has died after chewing on string lights is to use gloves to avoid contact with the animal and dispose of it in a plastic bag.
I think a squirrel is chewing on my string lights but I’m not sure.
What should I do?
If you think a squirrel is chewing on your string lights but you’re not sure you should contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control for assistance.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
