Many homeowners mistakenly attribute scratching noises in the loft or attic to mice and rats, but squirrels can also be the culprit. Squirrels in your home pose several dangers that you should not ignore. Read on to learn how to identify a squirrel infestation, find out why squirrels are harmful to your property, and learn the most effective strategies for squirrel removal.
About Squirrels
Squirrels are omnivorous animals belonging to the Sciuridae family, which consists of medium-size and small rodents. While their preferred diet consists of seeds, fruits, and nuts, squirrels also consume insects, bird eggs, and occasionally nestlings or carrion. Their powerful jaws and sharp, chisel-like incisors allow them to chew through tough materials.
There are over 270 species of squirrels worldwide, with around 200 found in the United States. These species include ground squirrels, tree squirrels, marmots, chipmunks, flying squirrels, and prairie dogs, among others.
What Attracts Squirrels to Homes
Squirrels enter homes for the same reasons as other rodents: food, shelter, and nesting sites. Bird feeders, vegetable gardens, and overhanging tree branches that provide easy access to your roof often attract them. Once they find an opening, such as a chimney or attic vent, squirrels can easily take up residence in your loft or attic.
Why Squirrels Are Harmful for Your Home
Many people do not mind having squirrels on their property because they are unaware of the damage and risks these animals pose. Squirrels have strong jaws that allow them to chew through nearly anything, including electrical wires, plumbing, wood, and roofing materials. Their nesting behavior can also damage HVAC systems, as they use insulation to build their homes.
In addition to property damage, squirrels carry parasites and their droppings can harbor harmful bacteria like leptospirosis and salmonella, posing a health risk to both humans and pets. Furthermore, squirrels are adept at hiding, and if one dies inside your home, locating it can be difficult, while eliminating the odor is even harder.
Signs of Squirrels in Your Home
Though some homeowners mistake squirrels for smaller rodents, there are clear signs that indicate a squirrel infestation:
- Nests made with insulation material.
- Chewed wiring, wood, ductwork, and damaged roofing materials such as panels, shingles, soffits, and eaves.
- Acorn or nut piles in your loft or attic.
- Sounds of chewing, scratching, or scurrying in the chimney, attic, loft, or walls.
- Foul-smelling droppings with rounded edges (unlike mouse droppings, which have pointed ends).
How to Get Rid of Squirrels
To remove squirrels from your home, start by eliminating their food sources. Secure trash bins, make bird feeders inaccessible, and remove any nuts, seeds, fruits, or vegetables from your garden.
You can also try scaring them out of your attic or chimney using loud noises. Bang pots and pans, leave a radio on continuously, yell, or rap on the ceiling. Additionally, placing rags soaked in vinegar near their nests can deter them, as they dislike the smell.
Why Call the Experts
The most effective solution, however, is to call a professional squirrel removal service. Professionals are familiar with regulations governing the humane handling and removal of squirrels. They have the expertise to remove the infestation safely, clean up after the squirrels, restore your home, and seal entry points to prevent their return.
Contact our experts at Rid-A-Critter today for professional squirrel removal services and enjoy a long-term solution to your squirrel problem.