Squirrels in your attic? It's a common problem, and one that can quickly escalate from a minor nuisance to a major headache. This comprehensive guide will walk you through identifying the problem, safely removing the squirrels, repairing the damage, and preventing future infestations. We'll cover everything from the telltale signs of a squirrel invasion to long-term prevention strategies.
Identifying a Squirrel Infestation
The first step is confirming you actually have squirrels in your attic. Don't jump to conclusions – other animals can cause similar noises and damage. Look for these common signs:
- Noises: Squirrels are active creatures. You'll likely hear scratching, scurrying, and chattering, especially at dawn and dusk. These sounds are often amplified in the quiet of your attic.
- Droppings: Squirrel droppings are small, dark, and cylindrical. Finding them in your attic is a strong indicator of an infestation.
- Damage: Squirrels gnaw on wood and insulation to create nests and access food. Look for chewed wires, damaged wood, and holes in your roof or siding.
- Sightings: If you've actually seen a squirrel near your house or in your attic, that's definitive proof.
Understanding Squirrel Behavior
Squirrels are intelligent and resourceful. They're driven by the need for food, shelter, and nesting materials. Understanding their behavior is crucial for effective removal.
- Nesting: Squirrels create nests, often using shredded insulation and other materials. These nests can be substantial, potentially causing significant damage.
- Food Sources: They're omnivores, attracted to nuts, seeds, berries, and even insects. They might be drawn to food sources near your house.
- Seasonal Activity: Activity levels peak during breeding season (spring and summer) and when food is scarce (fall and winter).
Safely Removing Squirrels from Your Attic
Never attempt to handle a squirrel yourself. They can bite and scratch, potentially transmitting diseases. Instead, follow these steps:
- Contact a Wildlife Removal Specialist: Professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely and humanely remove squirrels. They understand local regulations and best practices.
- Exclusion: Once the squirrels are removed, the professional will seal up all entry points to prevent re-entry. This is crucial for long-term prevention.
- Cleanup and Repair: After removal, you'll need to clean up the mess left behind by the squirrels. This involves removing droppings, nests, and repairing any damage to your attic. Consider professional cleaning if the contamination is extensive.
Case Study: The Miller Family
The Miller family experienced a significant squirrel infestation. After months of struggling with noise and damage, they contacted a professional wildlife removal company. The company safely removed the squirrels, repaired the attic damage, and installed squirrel-proof vents. The Millers were pleased with the results and haven't had a problem since.
Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations
Prevention is key to avoiding future attic invasions. Here are several strategies:
- Seal Entry Points: Regularly inspect your roof, siding, and foundation for any gaps or holes. Use caulk, mesh, or other suitable materials to seal them up.
- Trim Trees and Branches: Keep trees and branches trimmed back from your house to prevent squirrels from easily accessing your roof.
- Secure Garbage Cans: Store garbage in tightly sealed cans to eliminate food sources.
- Remove Food Sources: Don't leave pet food outdoors, and clean up any spilled birdseed.
- Install Baffles: These devices prevent squirrels from climbing onto your roof via downspouts or other vertical surfaces.
Squirrel-Proofing Your Home: A Checklist
| Task | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Seal entry points | Caulk gaps, install mesh screens | High |
| Trim overhanging branches | Reduce access points to your roof | High |
| Secure garbage cans | Prevent access to food sources | Medium |
| Install baffles | Stop squirrels from climbing downspouts | Medium |
| Remove food sources | Don't leave pet food or birdseed outdoors | Medium |
| Regular inspection | Regularly check for new entry points | High |
The Importance of Professional Help
While many DIY solutions exist, dealing with a squirrel infestation often requires professional expertise. Professionals can identify the scope of the problem, safely remove the animals, and implement effective preventative measures. Ignoring the problem can lead to significant damage and health risks. Remember, prevention is far less costly and stressful than dealing with a full-blown infestation.