Have you been hearing unusual noises in your home lately? Maybe it’s scratching behind the walls, scurrying overhead, or even the occasional loud thud. Strange sounds like these could be more than just your house settling—they could be signs of an uninvited guest. For many homeowners, these disturbances point to squirrels entering attics, walls, or crawl spaces, causing chaos you can’t ignore.

We’re going to help you identify five noises that often mean squirrels are taking over your space. Recognizing these squirrel infestation signs early can save you from serious damage and costly repairs. With some guidance from Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Madison, you’ll learn what to listen for and what steps to take next to protect your home.

5 Signs Squirrels Are Invading Your Home

What are those noises? From scratching and chewing to chirping and thumping, every one of these sounds tells a story about what may be happening inside your walls. We’re here to explain these noises and give you the insight you need to assess the problem and solve it safely and effectively.

Here are the five telltale signs that squirrels may be moving into your home.

Scratching or Scraping Sounds

One of the most common signs of squirrels indoors is the sound of scratching or scraping. These noises usually come from your attic, walls, or ceiling as squirrels try to:

• Dig, scratch, and tear through materials to create entry points or nests.
• Claw through insulation to make it more comfortable for nesting.

At first, the sounds may seem faint and occasional, but they often grow louder and more persistent over time. If ignored, this activity can lead to:

• Significant material damage to wood, insulation, or other structures.
• Higher repair costs down the line.

Look for additional signs like scratches on exposed wood or loose insulation near entry points to confirm the issue. Addressing it early can save you both time and money. 

Scurrying or Running Above You

If you hear quick, light movements in your ceiling that sound like tiny footsteps, you’re probably dealing with squirrels. These active animals dart around your attic, gathering food, building nests, or exploring.

What’s key is the timing. Unlike nocturnal animals, squirrels are most active during the day, especially early mornings after sunrise and late afternoons. If you notice a lot of noise at these times, squirrels are likely the cause.

You might have one squirrel or a group, as they often travel in pairs or groups. Attics provide them with a safe space to move around, but their activity can quickly disrupt your peace and quiet.

Chewing or Gnawing on Surfaces

Squirrels are known for their constant chewing because their teeth never stop growing. To keep them trimmed, they gnaw on hard materials, which becomes a big problem if it happens in your home. If you hear grinding or crunching sounds, it’s likely a squirrel at work.

They often target wooden beams, insulation, furniture, and even electrical wires. This chewing doesn’t just cause damage—if they get to electrical wiring, it can create a serious fire hazard.

Look for clues like sawdust or small wood splinters near walls or baseboards, which indicate recent chewing. Ignoring the problem can lead to more damage as squirrels turn your home into their feeding ground.

Chattering or Chirping Sounds

Squirrels use various sounds like chattering, chirping, or squeaking to communicate, especially if they’ve built a nest in your attic or vents. These noises often increase during breeding season, and if baby squirrels are present, you’ll hear constant chirping as they interact with their parents.

While these sounds may not seem as concerning as scratching or gnawing, they signal a bigger issue. The squirrels feel safe enough to build a family in your home, and they’re unlikely to leave on their own. As the young squirrels grow, the noise will increase, and ignoring it can lead to a long-term infestation that may require professional removal.

Thumping or Banging from Above

Loud thuds or impacts from your ceiling or walls could mean squirrels have moved in. These quick and agile animals often create surprising noises as they go about their activities.

The sounds are usually tied to jumping and climbing. A squirrel leaping between rafters or chasing another animal can cause sudden bangs. They may also drop heavier nesting materials, leading to loud thuds different from typical scratching or scurrying noises.

Pay close attention to these sudden, sporadic sounds. They could indicate squirrels establishing territory in your home. Loud impacts in specific areas might even help you locate where they’ve settled, making it easier to address the problem.

Additional Clues Beyond Noises

While strange sounds are the easiest way to notice squirrel activity in your living space, they’re not the only signs you should watch for. Keep an eye out for visual or sensory indicators, such as:

• Droppings: Squirrel droppings are often found in attics or around known entry points.
• Entry Damage: Small gaps, holes, or cracks along rooflines, vents, and soffits could signal entry points.
• Chewed Objects: Wood, interior walls, electrical wiring, and insulation may show signs of gnawing.
• Unpleasant Odors: Squirrel nests often come with smells from leftover materials or droppings.
• Increased Outdoor Squirrel Activity: More squirrels climbing on your roof or walls could mean they’ve found a way inside.

By staying alert to these red flags, you’re better equipped to confirm the problem and take appropriate action.

Why Professional Help Matters

If you’ve noticed any of these sounds in your home, don’t brush them off. Squirrels can cause serious damage to your property, from chewed wires to destroyed insulation. Acting fast is key to preventing further problems. The best way to handle a squirrel invasion is with professional help from experts you can trust.

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Madison, we specialize in safe, humane, and effective solutions. Our team will identify squirrel infestation signs, ensure proper home noise identification, and protect your space from future invasions. 

Contact us today to request a quote or to learn more about how we can help keep your home and family safe!