The average lifespan of a grey squirrel in the wild is between 1 and 4 years although there are rare cases of free-roaming squirrels living up to 13 years. The longest recorded lifespan of a squirrel in captivity is 20 years. The animal’s life expectancy depends on a number of variables.

One variable is wintertime conditions. Grey squirrels do not hibernate and spend extended hours in their nests during harsh weather. Prolonged or severe winter can minimize the squirrel’s ability to find food while heavy snow cover can limit its ability to recover buried nuts. Desperate squirrels are known to exhibit cannibalistic behaviour, eating members of their species.

The presence of predators also has a big impact on squirrel populations and life expectancy. Common examples of predators include humans, outdoor pets, weasels, red foxes, bobcats, hawks, owls, grey wolves, coyotes and raccoons. The critters rely on their nimble and quick bodies to escape predators. It is not uncommon for the animal to occasionally stand on its hind legs to canvas the area for possible predators.

Availability of food may also affect how long a grey squirrel lives although this is rarely a concern in normal conditions given the animal’s varied diet. The squirrels feed on acorns, bird seeds, nuts, grapes, small birds, bird eggs, grasses, bugs and amphibians.

Lastly, parasitic infections can increase the grey squirrel’s mortality rate. Some infections kill the animal outright while others cause it to lose its fur and therefore unable to withstand harsh weather. Fibromatosis is large tumours caused by a viral infection that can cause the squirrel to lose its eyesight or swell around the mouth or throat and die of starvation. There are a host of worms, lice, tics and larvae that can infect and kill the animal.

Grey squirrels have great adaptive qualities that help them to survive even in urban environments. They have dexterous paws and sharp claws that help them to build nests and find food. Their nimble nature helps them to move on top of trees and scale walls to get away from predators. Their varied diet is an added advantage that allows the critter to survive in most environments.

Hire an Expert to Remove Squirrels from Your Home

There is no denying that squirrels are a nuisance in the yard or in the house. Still, it is paramount that you remove the animals safely and humanely. You may get charged under the SPCA Act for animal cruelty by injuring or killing a squirrel even by accident.

Most squirrel removal professional prefers humane eviction. This requires installing a one-way door that lets the animals out of the den but locks them out from the outside-in. The professional service also includes repairing squirrel damage, cleaning squirrel feces and urine and wildlife-proofing the house with galvanized steel mesh or metal flashing to prevent a future invasion. Hire a wildlife removal service in Toronto with a warranty of at least two years for the eviction.