What they do:
Many homeowners perceive these animals as nuisances. Rabbits eat gardens, squirrels nest in attics and chimneys and raid bird feeders, and rats and mice get through impossibly small holes to take up residence.

What you can do:

• To keep rabbits out, fence in garden areas with “chicken wire” (one-inch mesh). Bury 4-6 inches below ground and extend it 3 feet above ground 
• Protect trees from rabbits with commercial tree tape, or surround the base with wire mesh. 
• If you can stand it, hang garlic in mesh bags or puree it, add water and use as a natural spray to deter rabbits in gardens. Commercial deterrents are also available in garden stores or nurseries. 
• Make sure no nests are inside, and then cap your chimney, block attic entrances and repair loose siding to keep squirrels out. 
• Use a squirrel proof bird feeder and “bafflers” available at garden stores and specialty bird shops. (Don’t use hot sauce or squirrel repellents on bird feeders—those can harm the birds.) 
• Block holes and fill cracks in the house to exclude rats and mice. Remove food sources by cleaning up spilled food and storing food in glass, meal or plastic containers. 
• Plant vegetation that critters don’t like—lavender and sage tend to keep squirrels away.  
• Use live traps to catch rats and mice—then release them far from home. 
• Remove brush piles, weed patches, and other debris that provide cover for rabbits and other wildlife from severe weather and predators. 
• In winter when green vegetation is scarce, alternative food (alfalfa hay, rabbit food) can be provided to distract rabbits from trees and valuable plants. 
• Use frightening devices such as flags and beach balls. You will need to change them frequently because rabbits adapt quickly to these aversive. 
• Repellants such as hot sauce for taste, and moth balls for smell, are temporary. Reapply them frequently.