Squirrels have a reputation for being adorable park-dwellers collecting nuts and acorns in anticipation for the winter. These bushy-tailed creatures are common attic and ceiling dwellers, and not one you want in your home. Early detection of squirrels in your home can be done with the proper information and knowledge. However, dealing with the animals is best left to the professionals. 

squirrel eating nut on porchPaying attention to the time of year is one of the best indicators of squirrels inhabiting your space. September and March are when they have their litters, and they like to find warm places to stay in the winter. With some basic knowledge and these nine signs you have a squirrel in the house, you can confirm your suspicions and do something about the situation before it gets out of control. As it goes with interacting with any wild animal in your home, identification is important, but it’s also important to stay safe and leave the dealings to the pros.

It may seem prudent o first attempt to resolve the issue yourself. But more often than not what ends up happening is further damage occurs to our property and the animal is placed in unnecessary jeopardy when dealt with by an inexperienced person.

 

Scurrying or Scratching Noises

Like noticing other animals in the house, hearing strange noises are the first giveaway that you have unwelcome houseguests. For squirrels, a scurrying sound along your ceiling or attic is one of the most common noises they make. You might also hear persistent scratching if a squirrel has become stuck in a wall cavity or down the chimney.

The good news is once squirrels have gained access, they are fairly easy to detect. They are fairly large and very active animals. Also, they keep similar hours to us, therefore increasing the likelihood we will notice their presence. 

 

Nests in Hollowed Tree Openings

If you notice squirrel nests in hollowed trees around your home, then the habitat around your home is host to squirrels and there’s a higher likelihood that the squirrels can make their way from tree to house.

 

Squirrels Around Your Roof

squirrel entering attic This my seem obvious but if you see activity in and around your roof, there is an increased chance of these critters getting into your attic or walls. Hanging around your roof might be innocent, but it might be a clue that there’s an entry point that the squirrels are exploiting. Better safe than sorry—pay attention to their behavior and pay close attention to their habits.

If you notice them sniffing around as opposed to playing and running, pay special attention to the situation. Squirrels that are actively playing on your rooftop, in your trees or on hydro poles are regular occurrences. Animals sniffing around and lingering in certain areas is a sure sign you may have intruders.

 

 

Squirrel Droppings

If you’re looking in your attic and find squirrel droppings among the rafters, then it’s a good sign that squirrels are living in your home. Squirrel droppings are small and cylindrical with round edges and are approximately 3/8 inch long and 1/8 inch in diameter. Its color lightens with age, though it’s typically brownish red in color.

Squirrel dropping are not particularly toxic therefore no need to take special precautions in cleaning up. However, we do recommend sanitizing the area as to ensure other animals do not pick up on the hormonal scent and investigate the area.

 

Holes in Your Siding

As part of the problem areas that squirrels may take advantage of to gain access to your home, finding holes in your siding is a big clue that there’s something that’s making its way inside.

 

Chewed Wires

Chewed wires in wall cavities or in the attic is a common sign of any rodent in the house, and the squirrel is no exception to this rule. For obvious reasons, you do not want to have animals chewing on live wires. Apart from potential fire risk, it is also expensive to hire an electrician troubleshoot and repair any damage. Best to be safe and protect your home if you suspect you may have unwanted guests.

 

Fighting Noises

Squirrels tend to fight when there’s an issue with territory ownership or over food resources. If you hear or see squirrels fighting, then it might be more than an old squirrel feud—it could mean that your home is a hot spot for squirrel activity.

 

Squirrels Entering Your Chimney

squirrel on a roofSquirrels are smart creatures that can turn anything into an opportunity to enter the home. The chimney is a golden opportunity for these animals, so seeing them going in or out is a big clue that you’ve got a squirrel in the house.

There are only a few actual man-made openings in the average home. The chimney is one of these areas and a definitive vulnerability.

If you see regular activity around your chimney, contact a wildlife company and look into having your chimney capped. It’s a simple and effective steps to help protect your home.

 

 

Damage to Shingles

Damage to your roof shingles can indicate that squirrels are trying their best to exploit weak points in the roof in order to access your attic. They’re smart animals that can make the most of any opportunity: don’t let a squirrel in the house cause you any time or money. Squirrel removal should only be performed by trained professionals. 

Do you need wildlife removal services? Request a quote today!

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