All About Squirrels: Fascinating Creatures and How to Handle Them

Squirrels are among the most common wildlife we encounter in our daily lives. These small, nimble creatures are known for their energetic behavior, bushy tails, and their tendency to make a home in the most unexpected places. While they can be fun to watch as they dart from tree to tree, squirrels can quickly turn into a nuisance when they make their way into your home or business. Here’s everything you need to know about squirrels, from their behavior to how you can prevent them from causing damage.

Squirrel Behavior and Habitats

Squirrels are incredibly resourceful animals. There are different species of squirrels, but the two most common types you’ll encounter are tree squirrels and ground squirrels. Tree squirrels, as the name suggests, live in trees and build their nests, known as dreys, in branches. Ground squirrels burrow into the ground and live in complex tunnel systems.

These little creatures are known for their relentless scurrying and ability to climb nearly any surface. Their sharp teeth and nimble claws make it easy for them to squeeze into small openings and create a safe haven for themselves—often inside your attic, walls, or even under your porch. Once inside, squirrels will look for food and shelter, potentially causing damage to insulation, wires, and wood as they chew through them.

Why Squirrels Can Be Problematic

While squirrels may seem harmless, they can pose several risks to your property and safety.

1. Property Damage

Squirrels are notorious for chewing on things, and their teeth grow continuously. They will gnaw on anything they can find—wires, insulation, wooden beams, and more—leading to significant damage. Electrical wiring, in particular, is a major concern. Squirrel-chewed wires can spark fires, putting your home or business in serious danger.

2. Health Risks

Squirrels can carry diseases that may pose health risks to humans and pets. They are known to carry ticks, fleas, and other parasites that can spread diseases like Lyme disease and leptospirosis. Squirrel droppings can also carry diseases such as salmonella and Hantavirus, which can be dangerous if exposed to humans or pets.

3. Noise and Disturbance

The constant scratching and scurrying noises squirrels make in your attic or walls can be more than just a nuisance. If a squirrel builds its nest in a quiet, secluded area of your home, you may hear them late at night or early in the morning. This can disrupt your daily life and cause sleepless nights.

How to Handle a Squirrel Problem

If you’ve discovered squirrels in your attic or around your property, it’s essential to take action quickly. Here are a few steps to handle the situation:

1. Identify Entry Points

Squirrels are known for squeezing through surprisingly small gaps. Look for openings in your roof, vents, and around windows where squirrels could gain access. Be thorough and inspect your attic, crawl spaces, and garage for any possible entry points.

2. Use Professional Wildlife Control Services

If you suspect squirrels have made themselves at home in your attic or walls, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife removal service. A wildlife control expert will be able to safely and humanely remove the squirrels, patch up any entry points, and provide recommendations for preventing future intrusions.

3. Prevent Future Infestations

Once the squirrels are removed, it’s important to take preventive measures to keep them from coming back. This can include installing squirrel-proofing measures like mesh screens, securing vents and rooflines, and trimming back any tree branches that provide easy access to your home.

Conclusion

While squirrels are an integral part of nature’s ecosystem, they can become unwelcome guests when they invade our homes. Their ability to cause property damage, introduce health risks, and create disturbances makes them a serious concern. Taking the proper steps to remove and prevent squirrels from entering your home will keep your property safe and sound.

If you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation, don’t hesitate to contact a wildlife removal expert. With the right help, you can restore your home’s safety and peace of mind while respecting the creatures in the wild.