It’s easy to underestimate how much of a nuisance a squirrel infestation can be. These small animals can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed promptly. Understanding what attracts squirrels is crucial in preventing an infestation. 

Often, they’re drawn to food sources like bird feeders, pet food, and even improperly sealed trash cans. They might also find a cozy refuge in attics, basements, and walls, which answers the question of where do squirrels hide. If you suspect you have an infestation, it’s important to act quickly. 

Skedaddle’s professional services can provide safe and effective solutions to get rid of a squirrel infestation. By addressing the issue early, you can protect your home and ensure these animals are handled humanely.

What Attracts Squirrels to Your Home

Several factors can attract squirrels to your home, making it crucial to address these issues to prevent infestations. One primary attractant is the availability of food sources. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders and will readily exploit bird feeders, pet food left outside, and improperly sealed garbage cans. Ensuring these food sources are inaccessible can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation.

Shelter is another appealing factor for squirrels. Attics, basements, and wall cavities provide the warm, safe environments that squirrels seek for nesting and raising their young. Regularly inspecting your home for potential entry points and sealing them appropriately can help keep squirrels from making your house their home.

Vegetation around your home can also serve as an inadvertent invitation. Overhanging tree branches and dense foliage can provide easy access to your roof and attic. Trimming trees and maintaining a clear area around your home can deter squirrels from venturing too close.

Lastly, water sources like bird baths, leaking gutters, or pet water dishes can attract squirrels. Ensuring that water is not easily accessible can further dissuade them from frequenting your property. By addressing these attractants, homeowners can proactively prevent infestations, preserving the integrity of their property and maintaining a safe and sanitary environment.

5 Signs You May Have a Squirrel Problem in Your Home

Squirrels may be cute when spotted in your yard, but they can cause significant issues if they make their way into your home. Identifying a squirrel problem early on is crucial to preventing extensive damage and ensuring the safety of your property. 

Here are five telltale signs that you may have a squirrel problem in your home.

1. Strange Noises in Your Home

One of the first signs homeowners notice is unusual sounds coming from the attic or walls. These noises are often most noticeable early in the morning or late in the evening when squirrels are most active. They might sound like scratching, scurrying, or even chewing.

These sounds can be quite disturbing, especially at night. It’s crucial not to ignore them, as they indicate that squirrels are already inside your home and could be causing damage. If you hear these noises, it’s time to investigate further and consider contacting a professional.

Squirrels can chew through wooden beams, insulation, and even electrical wiring, which poses a fire hazard. Addressing the issue promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line.

2. Visible Damage to Your Home

Another clear sign of an infestation is visible damage to your home’s structure. Squirrels chew on various materials to keep their teeth sharp, and they’re not picky about what they gnaw on. Look for chewed-up wood, insulation, and even plastic or metal materials around your attic and roof.

Inspect your attic for signs of nesting. Squirrels build nests using materials like twigs, leaves, and insulation. If you find these materials clustered together, it’s a strong indicator that they have moved in.

Additionally, check for entry points. Squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small holes and gaps. Look for any holes or cracks around your roofline, vents, and eaves. If you find any, seal them up to prevent further entry.

3. Droppings and Urine Stains

Droppings are another telltale sign of an infestation. These droppings are similar in size and shape to rice grains but are often darker in color. You might find them scattered in your attic, along with urine stains.

The smell of urine can also be quite strong and unpleasant. If you notice a foul odor in your attic or other parts of your home, it could be a sign that squirrels are present. These waste products can lead to unsanitary conditions and potential health risks for your family.

Cleaning up droppings and urine safely is essential, as they can harbor diseases. It’s best to leave this task to professionals who have the proper equipment and knowledge to handle it safely.

4. Nests and Debris

Squirrels build nests, also known as dreys, in attics and walls. These nests are typically made from twigs, leaves, and other materials they find around your home. You might come across these nests if you inspect your attic or crawl spaces.

In addition to nests, squirrels often bring in debris from outside, such as leaves, twigs, and even food. If you notice these materials in unusual places, it’s a sign that squirrels are making themselves at home. Finding a nest is a clear indication that they are not just passing through but have settled in. It’s important to address this issue promptly to avoid further damage and potential health hazards.

5. Increased Squirrel Activity Around Your Home

Keep an eye on the exterior of your home for increased squirrel activity. If you notice more squirrels than usual around your yard, roof, or eaves, it could be a sign they’re trying to access your home.

Pay attention to any gnaw marks on your roofline, vents, and eaves. Squirrels often chew through these areas to create entry points. If you see them frequently entering and exiting your attic, it’s a strong indicator that they’ve found a way in.

Additionally, check for any damage to your bird feeders, as squirrels are notorious for raiding them for food. If you notice increased squirrel activity, it’s essential to take action to prevent them from causing more damage.

Experience the Skedaddle Advantage!

When it comes to wildlife removal, Skedaddle stands out as the best choice for homeowners. Our team of experts is trained to handle infestations humanely and efficiently. We use proven methods to remove squirrels from your home and prevent them from returning.

At Skedaddle, we prioritize the safety and well-being of both our clients and the animals. Our humane removal techniques ensure that squirrels are removed safely, without harm. One-way doors are attached to the squirrel entry points, allowing them to leave safely without getting back inside the property.

We also provide thorough clean-up services to remove any droppings, urine stains, and nests, reducing the risk of disease and further damage.Our comprehensive approach includes identifying and sealing entry points to prevent future infestations. We use durable materials to ensure that your home remains squirrel-free for the long haul.

Our Humane Approach

At Skedaddle, we believe in humane wildlife removal. We understand that squirrels are just trying to find a safe place to live, but that doesn’t mean they should be in your home. Our methods prioritize the well-being of the animals while effectively removing them from your property.

Our team uses gentle techniques to encourage squirrels to leave on their own. This approach ensures that the squirrels are not harmed and reduces the risk of them trying to return to your home.

We also educate homeowners on how to make their properties less attractive to squirrels. By addressing the factors that attract squirrels, we help to prevent future infestations.

Taking the Next Step

If you suspect that you have a squirrel infestation, don’t wait to take action. Ignoring the problem can lead to more significant damage and potential health risks for your family. Contact Skedaddle today to schedule an inspection and get started on the path to a squirrel-free home.

Our team of experts is ready to help you with all your wildlife removal needs. We offer comprehensive services that include humane removal, thorough clean-up, and prevention measures to keep your home safe and secure.

Choose Skedaddle for Squirrel Removal in Atlanta

Squirrel infestations can be a significant nuisance for homeowners, leading to property damage and health risks. By recognizing the signs early and taking prompt action, you can protect your home and family. Attempting to handle the problem on your own can be risky and ineffective. Instead, rely on the expertise of Skedaddle for humane and efficient squirrel removal.

Don’t wait until the problem gets out of hand. Contact Skedaddle today and take the first step toward a squirrel-free home. Our team is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that your home remains safe, secure, and squirrel-free.