3 Signs of a Squirrel Infestation

Many people think of squirrels as the cute, furry critters portrayed in storybooks. However, they can wreak havoc if they end up inside your house. If you suspect there's a squirrel nesting in your walls, you'll need squirrel removal in Coquitlam. Why do squirrels venture indoors? They do so for the same reasons humans do: It's warmer, safe from predators and stocked with food. During the spring, expectant mothers search for a nesting place with all of the above, making it prime time for squirrel invasion. Because of their size and penchant for climbing, squirrels can find their way indoors through small gaps in siding or holes in your roof. Once inside, they'll start settling in, which can cause all sorts of problems for homeowners. Fortunately, these animals leave signs of their presence. If you live in an area with a large squirrel population, look for the following indications that some have found their way into your home.

1. Damage to Your Home's Interior Structure

Like other rodents, squirrels' teeth constantly grow. This feature is useful in the wild since their teeth are an essential survival tool. However, it also poses a problem since overgrown teeth can be painful and interfere with eating. To keep their teeth at a manageable length, squirrels naturally chew on wood to wear them down. Unfortunately, this behaviour can destroy your home's interior. Squirrels in the walls will chew on anything:

• Support beams
• Electrical wiring
• Insulation

They also use insulation for nests, leaving your home with pockets of uninsulated walls. Since insulation is essential for maintaining your home's temperature, you may have higher energy bills or notice cold spots that weren't there before.

2. Foul Odours

As wild animals, squirrels don't have the plumbing to dispose of waste. Instead, urine and feces accumulate inside your walls or attic, creating a disgusting smell. In the worst-case scenario, squirrels may even die in your walls, leading to the terrible stench of decomposition. If you smell a strong odour coming from your walls, don't plug any known holes or gaps, as you may inadvertently trap squirrels inside. Without access to food and water, these unwelcome visitors will starve to death, worsening the problem. The best option is to reach out to professional wildlife removal services. These experts know how to clear your home of pests with minimal risk to your family.

3. Strange Noises

Those strange noises may not be the house settling. If you hear scratching, scurrying or chewing, you may have furry roommates. It's especially important to pay attention to weird sounds during the spring. If a squirrel mother makes a nest in your home, you'll probably have a bigger problem before too long. As the kits grow, they'll make more noise and start establishing their own nests, causing more destruction to your home. If you suspect a mother squirrel is in your walls, you should call removal experts right away. If you're not sure if the sounds you hear are squirrels, try listening in the evenings and mornings. Squirrels typically leave their nests in the morning and return in the evening, so they're most likely to make a racket during those times. Do you have a squirrel infestation? Don't panic — Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control is here to help. We can remove squirrel nests as well as seal your home to prevent further problems. We're dedicated to helping homeowners keep their families and property safe, so you can expect top-notch customer service every time. Getting in touch is easy. You can learn about our services on our website and even reach out if you have any questions. You can also give us a call at 1-888-592-0387 for further information or to schedule an appointment.