Wildlife Removal Company

Squirrels in the Attic: Understanding the Problem and How to Solve It

While squirrels can be charming when seen in parks or darting across trees, they become a serious issue when they invade your home. Once inside, squirrels can cause extensive damage, create health risks, and disrupt your living space with constant noise. Understanding why squirrels enter attics, the dangers they bring, and how to safely remove them is essential for keeping your home safe and comfortable.

Why Squirrels Enter Attics

Squirrels, like other wildlife, seek secure, sheltered areas to nest, especially during colder months or when raising their young. Attics provide the perfect environment: warm, dry, and generally free from predators. The insulation found in attics is ideal nesting material, while the space offers squirrels a safe spot to store food and observe their surroundings.

Signs of a Squirrel Infestation

Catching an infestation early can help prevent costly damage. Look for these signs that squirrels have moved into your attic:

• Noises: Scratching, scampering, or chewing sounds, especially during the day, indicate squirrels, as they are diurnal (active during daylight hours).
• Droppings: Small, dark droppings, often found near entry points or along paths used by squirrels.
• Chewed Wires and Wood: Squirrels continuously chew to manage their growing teeth, often damaging wires, wood, insulation, and other parts of your home.
• Nests: Made of insulation, leaves, and other materials, nests are usually found in corners or near entry points.
• Entry Points: Small gaps, holes, or damaged areas on your roof, eaves, or soffits can indicate where squirrels are getting in.

The Dangers of Squirrels in the Attic

Although squirrels may seem harmless, they can create serious problems once inside:

• Fire Hazards: Squirrels often chew through electrical wires, increasing the risk of electrical fires—one of the most serious dangers of an infestation.
• Structural Damage: They can chew through wood, insulation, and other materials, causing damage that may weaken the structure of your home.
• Health Risks: Squirrels can carry diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella, which spread through contact with their droppings or urine. Their nests can also attract fleas, ticks, and mites.
• Noise: Constant scratching, gnawing, and running can disturb your peace, especially early in the morning when squirrels are most active.
• Secondary Infestations: Squirrel activity can attract other pests like rats, mice, and insects, complicating the problem further.

How to Safely Remove Squirrels from Your Attic

If you suspect squirrels have moved into your attic, quick action is essential. Here’s how to safely and humanely remove them:

1. Identify Entry Points: Inspect your roof, vents, and eaves for gaps or holes that squirrels could use to enter.
2. Use Humane Traps: Live traps can safely capture squirrels for relocation to a suitable habitat away from your home.
3. Install One-Way Exclusion Devices: These devices allow squirrels to leave but prevent them from returning—a humane way to encourage them to vacate.
4. Seal Entry Points: After removal, seal all entry points using materials like steel mesh, metal flashing, or heavy-duty caulk to prevent future infestations.
5. Clean and Disinfect: Thoroughly clean the attic to remove droppings, urine, and nesting materials, reducing the risk of disease and eliminating odors.
6. Repair Damages: Replace any damaged wires, insulation, or structural elements caused by the squirrels.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations

To stop squirrels from returning, take these preventative measures:

• Trim Trees and Branches: Cut back branches that are close to your roof to reduce squirrels’ access.
• Install Chimney Caps and Vent Covers: Chimneys and vents are common entry points, so secure them with caps and covers.
• Secure Food Sources: Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and avoid leaving pet food outside, as these attract squirrels.
• Regular Home Inspections: Inspect your roof, eaves, and attic regularly for signs of damage or entry points, especially before the colder months when squirrels are more likely to seek shelter.

Conclusion

Squirrels in the attic can cause significant problems, from property damage to health hazards. However, with the right approach, you can remove them safely and humanely. If you’re unsure about handling the situation yourself, consider contacting a professional wildlife removal service. Experts have the tools, experience, and knowledge to resolve the issue effectively, ensuring your home remains safe and squirrel-free.