Squirrels have two busy mating seasons each year, during which these energetic creatures become even more active—and sometimes, they may find their way into your home. For homeowners, recognizing squirrel mating calls can be vital in preventing these furry intruders from nesting in attics or other parts of the property.
In this blog, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about squirrel mating season—when it happens, how to identify it, and tips to keep your home squirrel-free. We’ll also explore the fascinating world of squirrel communication, including their unique mating calls and the sounds they make during this time.
Fortunately, Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Niagara is here to guide you through this curious yet complicated season. From understanding squirrel behaviour to protecting your home, we’ve got you covered.
When Is Squirrel Mating Season?
When is squirrel mating season? Squirrels have two main mating seasons each year: early spring (January to March) and late summer (July to September). These times are ideal for their young to be born because warmer weather provides plenty of food and safe shelter, giving baby squirrels the best chance to thrive.
During these mating seasons, you might notice squirrels becoming more active and noisy. Males chase females in energetic displays, running through treetops and across yards, often accompanied by their distinctive chatter. This behaviour is part of their competition to find mates. While it’s an interesting part of nature, it can cause problems for homeowners. Your attic might become a prime spot for squirrels looking to build a safe nest for their babies.
Squirrel Mating Behaviour: What to Expect
If you’re wondering what squirrels sound like when they’re “in the mood,” you might notice high-pitched vocalizations, which include a mix of barks, twitches, and chirpy squeaks. These sounds are part of their communication as males attract potential mates and compete for attention.
Once a female selects a mate, she’s quick to get to the task of finding a safe, warm place to create her nest. Here’s where things get concerning for homeowners—your attic, roof vents, or chimney could be on her list of perfect nesting spots.
Female squirrels are resourceful when creating homes for their litter. They’ll collect materials like leaves, insulation, and even paper to build cozy nests. Each litter typically consists of two to four babies, and they’ll remain in the nest for several weeks before venturing out.
These newborns might be cute, but the noise and activity caused by a nesting family can quickly make homeowners regret having them as house guests.
Why Squirrels Target Homes
Squirrels are great at finding cozy spots to nest, and your attic or roofline might be just what they’re looking for. But why do they choose our homes over the outdoors? Let’s find out.
Attics and rooflines provide warmth and protection from predators, something squirrels can’t always get from trees or outdoor spaces. Small openings, like damaged roof vents, loose shingles, or gaps in siding, make it easy for squirrels to slip inside and turn your home into their safe haven.
While it might not seem like a big deal at first, having squirrels in your home can lead to problems. They can cause damage by chewing on electrical wires, insulation, and wood, which can result in expensive repairs. Plus, their scratching and scurrying can create constant noise, disrupting your home’s peace and quiet.
If you think squirrels have moved in or hear unusual sounds in your attic or roof, it’s important to take care of the problem right away.
The Risks of Ignoring Squirrel Nesting
When squirrels decide to nest in your home, it can cause a lot of problems. Here are some of the issues you might face if they’re not removed quickly:
- Property Damage: Squirrels love to chew. They can gnaw on insulation, wood, and even electrical wires. This can lead to costly repairs and might even cause electrical fires.
- Noise Problems: The sound of squirrels running around and making noise can disturb your home, making it hard to relax or focus.
- Health Risks: Squirrel droppings and urine can attract bacteria and parasites, which may harm your family’s health.
- Contamination: Squirrels bring in nesting materials, food, and debris, which can make your home messy and unhygienic.
- Structural Damage: Squirrels can dig and create multiple entry points, weakening your home’s structure over time.
- More Pests: A squirrel infestation can attract other pests like insects or bigger animals looking for food or shelter.
- Extra Noise During Mating Season: During mating season, squirrels can become even louder as males compete for females, making the problem worse.
If you hear strange noises or see signs of squirrels in your home, call a professional wildlife removal service right away. Acting quickly can help protect your home and your family’s health.
How Professional Squirrel Removal Works
If squirrels have taken over your home, it’s important to call in professionals like Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. Our team uses safe and humane methods to remove squirrels, ensuring the safety of both homeowners and the animals. Here’s how we handle squirrel infestations:
- Inspection: We start by thoroughly inspecting your home to find out where squirrels are getting in and where they’re nesting. This helps us create a complete plan for removal.
- One-Way Doors: To safely remove adult squirrels, we use one-way doors at their entry points. These doors let the squirrels leave but prevent them from getting back in, protecting your home while keeping the squirrels safe.
- Baby Squirrel Care: If there are baby squirrels, our team carefully removes them and reunites them with their mothers outside your home. This ensures the family stays together while keeping your home squirrel-free.
- Sealing Entry Points: Once the squirrels are out, we seal all entry points using strong materials. This prevents future infestations and helps protect your home long-term.
Unlike live trapping, our approach is designed to be safe for the squirrels and effective for homeowners. By leaving the process to professionals, you can be confident that the problem will be resolved in a humane and lasting way.
Protect Your Home Today
Wondering when is squirrel mating season? Understanding the behaviour and habits of squirrels during mating season is the first step to keeping your home safe. Whether you’re hearing a squirrel mating call or have already spotted signs of nesting, don’t wait until the damage adds up.
At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Niagara, we’re here to help with humane, effective solutions that work for both you and the animals. Our experienced team uses proven techniques to remove squirrels safely and prevent future invasions, ensuring your home stays free from unwelcome visitors.
If you suspect squirrels have moved into your home, contact us today to request a quote and take the first step toward a wildlife-free home.