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Squirrel

Gray and red squirrels are common tree-dwelling rodents found throughout residential, suburban, and wooded areas. While they are often seen as harmless backyard wildlife, squirrels frequently become a serious problem when they enter homes in search of warmth, shelter, or nesting space. In wildlife control, squirrels are among the most common attic invaders and are known for causing extensive property damage. Their chewing behavior, nesting activity, and ability to access small openings make them a high-risk nuisance species when they move into structures.

When to Call a Professional

If you hear daytime activity in your attic or notice chewing damage on your home, squirrels may already be inside. Early professional intervention helps prevent fire hazards, structural damage, and repeat infestations while ensuring wildlife is handled responsibly and legally.

Identification
Tips

Squirrels are medium-sized rodents with:

  • Slender bodies and bushy tails

  • Fur ranging from gray to reddish-brown

  • Sharp incisors used for constant gnawing

  • Daytime activity (most active during daylight hours)

Red squirrels tend to be smaller and more aggressive, while gray squirrels are larger and more commonly involved in attic infestations. Both species are excellent climbers and jumpers.

Biology and Life Cycle

  • Average lifespan: 5–10 years

  • Breeding seasons: Late winter and midsummer

  • Gestation period: Approximately 44 days

  • Young per litter: 2–5

  • Squirrels build nests in trees, known as dreys, but frequently choose attics because they offer warmth, protection from predators, and stable conditions for raising young.

Behavior and Habits

Squirrels are:

  • Diurnal (active during the day)

  • Highly territorial once established

  • Constant chewers due to continuously growing teeth

  • Capable of entering openings as small as a few inches

Once inside a structure, squirrels will chew through wood, shingles, soffits, vents, and insulation to maintain access and create nesting space.

Signs of Squirrel Activity

Common signs that squirrels may be present in or around your home include:

  • Scratching, running, or scurrying sounds in attics or walls during daylight hours

  • Chewed holes near rooflines, eaves, or vents

  • Torn or compacted attic insulation

  • Droppings in attics or near entry points

  • Visible squirrels traveling along rooflines, trees, or power lines

Risks and Health Concerns

Squirrels can cause serious problems, including:

  • Chewed electrical wiring, increasing fire risk

  • Structural damage to roofs, siding, and attic spaces

  • Reduced insulation effectiveness and higher energy costs

  • Parasites such as fleas and ticks

  • Aggressive behavior if cornered or protecting young

Squirrels rarely leave on their own once they establish a nesting site inside a structure.

Removal and Control Techniques

Professional squirrel control focuses on safe, humane, and effective solutions, including:

  • Live trapping or one-way exclusion devices

  • Identifying and sealing all active and potential entry points

  • Attic inspections to ensure no dependent young are present

  • Repairing structural damage after removal

  • Installing vent covers, chimney caps, and wildlife-proof barriers

Improper removal often leads to repeated infestations or increased damage.

Prevention Tips

Homeowners can reduce squirrel problems by:

  • Trimming tree branches away from roofs

  • Securing vents and chimney openings

  • Sealing gaps along rooflines and siding

  • Avoiding feeding wildlife near structures

  • Regularly inspecting roofs and attic access points

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