During the colder months, many people wonder about the behavior of local wildlife. Do squirrels hibernate like some animals, or do they have different strategies for surviving winter? 

The truth is, squirrels do not hibernate. Instead, they stay active throughout the season, relying on the food they’ve stored during the warmer months. For those living in urban areas like Saint Paul, it’s crucial to understand squirrel behavior to manage any potential issues effectively. 

When it comes to wildlife control in Saint Paul, knowing how to deter squirrels from making their home in your attic or walls can prevent damage and maintain peace of mind. By being aware of these furry visitors’ habits and ensuring your home is secured, you can enjoy a squirrel-free environment all winter long. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking out for your property, understanding squirrel activity is essential.

The Winter Survival Plan of Squirrels

Squirrels are fascinating creatures that have adapted well to survive the winter months. Unlike some animals that hibernate, squirrels remain active throughout the season. But this doesn’t mean they are unaffected by the cold. They have developed several strategies to endure the harsh conditions.

Squirrels spend the fall storing food in various locations. This behavior, known as “scatter hoarding,” allows them to have multiple caches of food to rely on when resources become scarce. By using their incredible memory and keen sense of smell, squirrels can locate these hidden stashes even under a blanket of snow. This ability to find food is crucial for their survival, as it ensures they have enough energy to sustain themselves when food sources are limited.

Another key aspect of their winter survival plan is the thickening of their fur. Squirrels grow a denser coat to provide insulation against the cold. This thicker fur helps them retain body heat and stay warm even in freezing temperatures. Additionally, squirrels tend to reduce their activity levels during the winter, conserving energy by spending more time resting in their nests.

Nesting Habits and Habitat Choices

Squirrels rely heavily on their nests, or “dreys,” to stay warm and protected from the elements. These nests are typically constructed in tree cavities or high up in the branches. Made from twigs, leaves, and other natural materials, dreys are well-insulated structures that provide a safe haven for squirrels during the winter.

Tree cavities are preferred nesting sites as they offer better protection from predators and harsh weather. When suitable tree cavities are not available, squirrels build their nests in the branches, often close to the trunk for added stability. The nests are carefully constructed, with multiple layers of leaves and twigs to create a cozy and secure environment.

In urban areas or regions with limited natural nesting sites, squirrels may seek shelter in buildings, attics, and sheds. This can lead to conflicts with homeowners, as squirrels can cause damage by chewing through insulation, wiring, and structural materials. If you discover squirrels in your attic or other parts of your home, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.

Squirrels and Winter Foraging

Foraging is a year-round activity for squirrels, but it becomes particularly crucial during the winter months. With fewer food sources available, squirrels rely on their hidden caches and any remaining natural food. Their diet primarily consists of nuts, seeds, fruits, and fungi, but they are also known to eat bark and buds when other options are scarce.

Squirrels have an incredible ability to remember the locations of their food caches, even several months after burying them. This remarkable memory is complemented by their acute sense of smell, which helps them locate buried food under layers of snow. By constantly foraging and retrieving their stored food, squirrels can maintain their energy levels and survive the winter.

However, the presence of bird feeders, garbage bins, and pet food can attract squirrels to residential areas. While it may be entertaining to watch them scurry around your yard, it’s important to remember that feeding squirrels can lead to increased reliance on human-provided food sources. This dependency can result in overpopulation and other issues, such as property damage and the spread of diseases.

How to Deter Squirrels from Your Property

Preventing squirrels from invading your home and causing damage requires a proactive approach. Here are some effective strategies to keep squirrels at bay:

1. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any openings that squirrels could use to gain access. Pay close attention to gaps in the roof, eaves, vents, and chimneys. By sealing these entry points with durable materials like steel mesh or hardware cloth, you can prevent squirrels from entering your home.
2. Trim Tree Branches: Squirrels are excellent climbers and can use overhanging branches to access your roof. Trim tree branches that are close to your house to eliminate potential pathways for squirrels. Keeping a safe distance between trees and your home will make it more difficult for squirrels to reach your roof.
3. Remove Food Sources: Store food securely to prevent attracting squirrels. Bird feeders should be placed away from your home, and any spilled seeds should be cleaned up regularly. Garbage bins should have tightly sealed lids, and pet food should be stored indoors or in squirrel-proof containers.

Why Choose Skedaddle for Wildlife Control in Saint Paul

At Skedaddle, we understand the importance of humane wildlife control. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing effective and compassionate solutions to keep your home free from unwanted animal guests. We specialize in removing squirrels and other wildlife without causing harm, ensuring a safe and humane approach.

Our process begins with a thorough inspection of your property to identify potential entry points and assess the extent of the infestation. Once we have a clear understanding of the situation, we develop a customized plan to remove the animals and seal off access points to prevent future invasions.

One of the key advantages of choosing Skedaddle is our commitment to humane practices. We do not trap or relocate wildlife, as these methods can cause unnecessary stress and harm to the animals. Instead, we use exclusion techniques to safely remove the animals and encourage them to find alternative habitats.

Our team is highly trained and experienced in handling wildlife control situations. We use specialized equipment and techniques to ensure the job is done efficiently and effectively. Additionally, we provide detailed recommendations to help you prevent future infestations and maintain a squirrel-free home.

Effective and Humane Solutions

Understanding where squirrels go during winter and how they adapt to the cold can help homeowners take proactive measures to protect their properties. By implementing effective deterrents and securing your home against squirrel entry, you can minimize the risk of damage and create a safer environment for both you and the squirrels.

If you’re dealing with a squirrel infestation or want to ensure your home is protected, Skedaddle is here to help. Our expert team provides humane wildlife control services that prioritize the well-being of both animals and homeowners. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in keeping your home squirrel-free.