How far should branches be kept from the building to reduce squirrel access?

How far should branches be kept from the building to reduce squirrel access?

• A. 5 feet
• B. 10 feet
• C. 15 feet
• D. 20 feet

Answer: (B)

Squirrels use nearby branches as ladders to reach roofs, eaves, and attic openings. They can jump several feet from a branch to the structure, so when branches extend within about 10 feet of the building, they have an accessible path to gain entry. Keeping branches at least 10 feet away reduces the jump distance needed and removes a direct route onto the roof, making entry by squirrels much less likely. This distance is a practical minimum that balances effective exclusion with reasonable landscape maintenance. Closer branches (closer than 10 feet) keep the building within jump reach, while much farther distances (like 15 or 20 feet) aren’t usually necessary for basic prevention and can be overly demanding to maintain.

Squirrels use nearby branches as ladders to reach roofs, eaves, and attic openings. They can jump several feet from a branch to the structure, so when branches extend within about 10 feet of the building, they have an accessible path to gain entry. Keeping branches at least 10 feet away reduces the jump distance needed and removes a direct route onto the roof, making entry by squirrels much less likely. This distance is a practical minimum that balances effective exclusion with reasonable landscape maintenance. Closer branches (closer than 10 feet) keep the building within jump reach, while much farther distances (like 15 or 20 feet) aren’t usually necessary for basic prevention and can be overly demanding to maintain.