The pitter-patter of tiny feet above your head might sound endearing at first, but when those footsteps persist and the noises become a regular occurrence, chances are you might have some unexpected furry tenants in your attic—squirrels.
Squirrels are charismatic and agile creatures known for their acrobatics in trees, but when they decide to make themselves at home in your attic, it can lead to a range of issues. While it might seem harmless or even cute to have these critters around, their presence can pose various challenges and concerns for homeowners.
Understanding the Intruders
Squirrels are naturally drawn to attics for various reasons. Attics offer a sheltered and secure environment that mimics the trees they’re accustomed to, providing warmth, protection from predators, and a potential nesting site. They often find their way in through small openings or gaps in the roof or siding, seeking a safe haven to build their nests and raise their young.
Signs of Squirrel Squatters
Identifying the presence of squirrels in your attic is crucial for timely intervention. Some common signs include:
- Scratching Noises: Squirrels are active creatures, especially during dawn and dusk. You might hear scratching, scampering, or thumping sounds in your attic as they move around.
- Damaged Entry Points: Squirrels can chew and gnaw on wood, plastic, and other materials to gain entry. Check for chewed wires, damaged insulation, or holes in the roof or soffits.
- Nesting Materials: If you notice materials like leaves, twigs, or shredded insulation in your attic, it could indicate squirrel nesting activity.
- Foul Odor: Accumulation of squirrel droppings and urine can lead to a strong, unpleasant odor in your attic.
The Impact on Your Home
Having squirrels in your attic can lead to several problems:
- Structural Damage: Squirrels can chew through electrical wires, wooden beams, and insulation, leading to potential fire hazards and compromising the structural integrity of your home.
- Health Concerns: Their droppings and urine can carry diseases and parasites, posing health risks to you and your family.
- Noise Pollution: The constant noises from their activities can disrupt your peace and affect your sleep.
Eviction and Prevention
Removing squirrels from your attic should be handled carefully and humanely. Professional wildlife removal services can safely and effectively relocate these critters.
To prevent future intrusions, seal off any entry points, trim tree branches near your roof, and consider installing mesh or wire coverings over vulnerable areas to discourage squirrels from re-entering.
Conclusion
While squirrels might appear cute and harmless, having them take up residence in your attic can lead to various issues that affect your home’s safety and your family’s well-being. Timely detection and intervention are crucial to effectively deal with these unexpected roommates.
Remember, addressing squirrel infestations should be approached cautiously. Seeking assistance from wildlife professionals ensures the humane removal of these creatures while implementing preventive measures to safeguard your attic against future intrusions.
Stay vigilant, keep an eye (and ear) out for signs of squirrel activity, and take proactive steps to secure your attic to avoid these bushy-tailed visitors making themselves too comfortable in your home.
Call LydyBug Pest Control right away if you suspect some funny business going on in your attic. Our team of professionals can assess what’s going on and get you set up with a rodent exclusion to keep unwanted guests out of your home, in a humane and thoughtful way.
