As inhabitants of our local neighborhood, squirrels are fascinating creatures to observe with their acrobatic stunts and quick movements. However, these nimble neighbors might not always be welcome in our homes or yards. If you are experiencing problems with squirrels with their nesting or damaging your property, seeking the assistance of local wildlife removal experts could be the best course of action.

In this article, our Skedaddle experts will explore the habits of these furry creatures and provide insights into understanding their behavior. Did you know that the average lifespan of a squirrel is only 2-3 years? Do you know what a squirrel nest looks like? By learning more about these creatures and their behaviors, you can better protect your property and coexist with them in a safe and respectful manner. 

Identifying Signs of Squirrels in Your Attic

When squirrels make an attic their home, they inevitably leave signs of their presence. These signs largely fall into four primary categories: noise, visual cues, odor, and damage. 

The most common first indication is noise, which often takes the form of distinctive scurrying sounds on your ceilings or walls, particularly during dawn and dusk. This is due to squirrels being most active during these periods. You might also hear scratching sounds as these animals often gnaw objects in your attic to keep their teeth from growing excessively long. 

Visual cues often involve seeing physical evidence of their activities. This includes tracks or droppings around your property. Squirrel footprints are notably small, and their droppings are usually about half an inch long, cylindrical with rounded or pointed ends, and may turn reddish-brown over time. 

Odors are another significant indication of squirrel presence. An unpleasant odor usually emanates from squirrel urine and droppings, which can soak into materials within your attic. The scent might also originate from food debris if they have been storing food in the area. 

Lastly, look out for any signs of damage. From chewed wires and scratched wood surfaces to torn insulation and gnawed hole openings, squirrels can inadvertently cause significant distress to your property. These damages can raise safety concerns and lead to costly repairs if not addressed timely. 

Identifying these signs is a crucial first step in tackling a squirrel infestation. Should you notice any such indications, consider reaching out to a professional squirrel removal service like Skedaddle for immediate assistance.

Safeguarding Your Home: Preventing Squirrel Infestations

Important to achieving this objective is understanding the habits and tendencies of squirrels. These agile and intelligent creatures are natural seekers, instinctively drawn towards secure, warm safe havens that are well-stocked with food. Unfortunately, this makes your attic a perfect locale for them. 

One of the crucial steps towards achieving a squirrel-free home is to carry out regular home inspections. Pay close attention to any holes or gaps in the roof, walls or foundations. Squirrels squeeze through small spaces to gain access into your home, so if you spot possible entry points, take action immediately. 

At Skedaddle, we advocate for sealing such cracks and crevices using robust materials that are not easy for squirrels to chew through. Squirrels’ teeth never stop growing thus, they constantly gnaw to keep their teeth in check. Therefore, it’s essential to consider a material like heavy-duty steel mesh, which is resilient enough to withstand their sharp, persistent teeth. 

Additionally, maintaining your outdoor space can limit a squirrel’s attraction to your property. Regularly trim the branches of trees adjacent to your house. Squirrels are amazing climbers and can leap from branches onto your roof, helping them gain access to your attic. 

Cleaning up your yard discourages squirrels from making a home there. Open trash cans are like a buffet set for squirrels. Ensure your trash cans are properly closed, limiting their access to food sources. 

Damage Caused by Squirrels: Why Removal is Essential

When you find squirrels have made themselves at home in your attic, professional removal becomes critical. These agile rodents, while may appear harmless, can cause substantial and costly harm to your property, and pose potential health risks to you and your family. 

Squirrels have strong incisors that continually grow, prompting their incessant need to chew to keep their teeth at a manageable length. Wood is their preferred material to gnaw on, leading them to often damage the structural integrity of your attic. Walls, ceilings, and even electrical wires are not safe from their persistent chewing. Ignoring the problem and allowing them to continue can lead to significant repair expenses and, in worse scenarios, cause electrical short-circuits which can lead to house fires. 

Additionally, squirrels are known to carry various diseases, such as leptospirosis and salmonellosis. Their urine and feces can contaminate the insulation in your attic, creating a suitable environment for these diseases. Exposure to these pathogens poses a direct health risk to your family, especially if you have young children, seniors, or those with suppressed immune systems living in your house. 

The removal of squirrels needs to be both effective and humane. As wild creatures, it’s crucial that they be relocated properly, to minimize ecological disruption and to ensure their survival. Therefore, the task of squirrel removal should not be attempted as a DIY project. The chance of personal injury and potential mishandling of the squirrel makes it a risky endeavor. 

Choose Skedaddle for Professional and Humane Local Wildlife Removal in Madison

When it comes to removing squirrels from your property, Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control is the best choice for an expert, professional and humane approach. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve developed effective and animal-friendly methods that delve beyond surface level treatments. 

Several reasons set Skedaddle apart in the field of squirrel removal services: 

• Humane Methods: We prioritize the well-being of the animals we remove, minimizing stress and ensuring they are safely re-homed.
• Experienced Technicians: Our team comprises skilled wildlife technicians trained in humane capture and removal procedures.
• In-depth Knowledge: We fully understand the behavior, nesting habits, and mating cycles of several wildlife species, including squirrels.
• Environmentally Responsible: Skedaddle utilizes eco-friendly and sustainable practices throughout our removal and prevention process.
• Comprehensive Service: Beyond mere removal, Skedaddle offers a holistic service. We rehabilitate squirrels, restore your property to its original state, and also put measures in place to prevent future infestations. This all-in-one approach is designed to provide you with peace of mind.
• Community Partnerships: Skedaddle frequently partners with local communities and homeowner associations to educate about wildlife and advocate for its respectful treatment. Our aim is to foster greater understanding and compassion towards these fascinating creatures.
• Clients’ Satisfaction: Owing to our effective, humane, and comprehensive service, we have accrued recognition and trust from our customers. They appreciate our dedication and professional approach towards the preservation of their home’s integrity and the welfare of wildlife.

Through an approach that marries both expertise and compassion, Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control provides a service you can trust. Our commitment to ethical wildlife removal extends to ensuring that, following removal, steps are taken to prevent future unwanted squirrel invasions. 

Secure the safety and tranquility of your home now with Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. We guarantee a precise, successful, and humane resolution to your squirrel issues. Allow our professionals to lead the way for a squirrel-free environment.