As a nature lover with years of experience observing squirrels, I often get asked how to identify signs of these clever rodents taking up residence in attics. But, what are the signs of squirrels in the attic?

Squirrels in the attic can cause extensive damage. Look for noises, odors, nests, droppings, acorns, water stains, and chewing damage. Trapping and exclusion are regarded as the most effective methods for their removal. Seal entry points and use deterrents to keep them out.

In this blog post, I’ll share the top signs of a squirrel infestation and tactics to evict your furry invaders humanely. I’ll also provide tips to squirrel-proof your home. Let’s get started!

When Do Squirrels Invade Attics?

Squirrels enter attics during certain seasons and times of day:

Early spring and late summer/early fall when females seek safe spots to bear young
Winter when they seek shelter from the cold
Morning and evening when the most active

6 Key Signs of Squirrels in the Attic

1. Noises

Listen for these noises coming from your attic:

Scampering, scratching, or pattering noises, especially early morning and evening
Loud thumps as squirrels leap around
Chewing or gnawing sounds

2. Unusual Odors

Squirrel droppings and urine cause foul, musty smells. A dead squirrel leads to an even worse odor.

3. Nesting Evidence

Look for:

Tufts of torn-up insulation
Nests made from shredded insulation, boxes, leaves, etc.

4. Droppings

Squirrel poop resembles brown, cylinder-shaped pellets around 1/8 inch long.

5. Stains or Water Damage

Leaky roofs aren’t always to blame. Check for stained or damp ceilings that may indicate squirrel urine.

6. Chewing Damage

Watch for gnaw marks on:

Wood beams
Electrical wiring
Pipes

Dangers of Squirrels in Attics

Why are squirrels such destructive invaders? It comes down to two key facts about their behavior:

Squirrels are rodents, so they gnaw constantly to wear down ever-growing teeth.
They are highly protective of their territory, especially females with young.

This chewing and territorial behavior leads to dangers including:

Structural damage from chewing on beams and joists
Electrical fires from damaged wiring
Plumbing leaks or floods
Threats to safety from defensive mother squirrels

How to Remove Attic Squirrels

Here are the steps to solve your problem about having squirrels in your attic:

1. Inspect and Locate Entry Points

Walk around the exterior looking for possible entry points. Also check inside the attic for signs of activity.

2. Install Exclusion Devices

Seal all entry points except 1-2 main holes. Install 1-way exclusion doors or repeating traps over those holes.

3. Monitor and Remove Squirrels

Check devices frequently to remove and relocate trapped squirrels at least 5 miles away.

4. Seal the Remaining Holes

Once you no longer hear squirrel noises, remove devices and seal remaining holes with heavy-duty materials like steel.

5. Clean Up

Decontaminate attic spaces and make repairs as needed.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations

After removing squirrels, take these steps to keep them from returning:

Trim overhanging tree branches near your home
Replace bird feed with squirrel-proof feeders
Use taste or scent repellents around your home
Install motion-activated sprinkler deterrents
Seal gaps wider than 1/4 inch
Cover vents with steel mesh

When to Call a Professional

Removing squirrels and their nests yourself risks attacks or incomplete removal. Contact a qualified wildlife control expert if you:

Can’t locate or seal every possible entry point
Hear ongoing noises after attempting removal
Notice signs of property damage
Suspect squirrels got trapped inside

A reputable wildlife removal pro will humanely trap squirrels and seal entry points correctly. They can also provide custom plans to keep these acrobatic rodents from returning to your attic.

FAQ

How did squirrels get in my attic?

Squirrels are excellent climbers and can jump up to 8 feet or more horizontally. They typically enter attics through holes in soffits, vents, and gaps around chimneys, or by chewing through shingles or wood.

How can I get rid of squirrels in my attic?

The most effective way is to trap them alive using humane traps baited with food. Release the trapped squirrels at least 5 miles away. Then seal up all possible entry holes into the attic with materials like steel wool or copper mesh.

However, before taking any action, make sure to check your local laws and regulation regarding wildlife relocation.

What are signs of a squirrel nest in an attic?

Look for piles of leaves, twigs, insulation, or other shredded materials. Also, look for chewed-up boxes or other items used as nesting materials.

What smells indicate squirrels in the attic?

Musky, urine-like odors coming from your attic or vents are signs of squirrels. A worse rotting smell could mean a dead squirrel is decaying.

What damage can attic squirrels cause?

Chewing on electrical wires can cause fires. Gnawing on wood beams could compromise structural integrity. They also contaminate attics with feces and urine.

What are humane squirrel removal methods?

Using live traps baited with food, sealing entry points, and installing one-way exclusion doors allows for squirrel removal without harming them. Avoid toxic chemicals or glue traps.

How do I keep squirrels out of my attic permanently?

Seal all possible entry holes with heavy duty materials. Install chimney caps and steel mesh over vents. Trim overhanging trees. Use squirrel repellents.

When should I call professional wildlife control?

If you can’t locate or reach all entry points, continue hearing noises, or see signs of property damage, contact a licensed wildlife removal company for help.

Conclusion

I hope this guide gave you a thorough understanding of the top signs of squirrels in the attic. While seeing them climb and play outside is fun, having them inside your home is no joke due to the risks of damage. Following the removal tips and prevention strategies outlined will help you successfully evict squirrels and keep them out for good!

As a nature lover who wants the best for both people and wildlife, I’m happy to share my knowledge and experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional questions about signs of squirrels in attic or humane removal methods.