Winter in Toronto means more than just snow and chilly temperatures. It often brings unwanted guests into your home, and not the kind you can simply ask to leave. Squirrel infestations are a common issue during the colder months, as these persistent animals seek warmth and shelter. Recognizing the signs of squirrel infestation early can save you from potential damage and costly repairs. 

Squirrels are known for their chewing habits, which can lead to damaged wires, insulation, and even structural parts of your house. You might hear scurrying noises in the attic or notice droppings in less frequented areas. Chewed-up entry points and nests made of torn fabric or paper are also clear indicators. 

Understanding the significance of squirrel in house situations is crucial for maintaining your property and peace of mind. Professional help is often necessary to effectively and humanely resolve these issues. Learning how to keep squirrels away involves understanding their behaviour and habits, so you can better protect your home. Being proactive and vigilant during the winter months will help you keep your home safe and squirrel-free.

Signs of Squirrel Infestation

Squirrels are active throughout the year, but they tend to seek shelter indoors more frequently during the winter months. This is because they are looking for a warm place to nest and store food. If squirrels find an entry point into your home, they can cause damage by chewing on wires, insulation, and wood. They can also create unsanitary conditions with their droppings. Early detection is crucial because it allows you to address the problem before it becomes more severe.

One of the first signs of a squirrel infestation is the sound of scratching or scampering in your walls or attic. Squirrels are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. If you hear noises during the daytime, it’s a strong indicator that squirrels may be present. Additionally, you may notice droppings around your home, particularly in the attic or around entry points. Squirrel droppings are small, dark, and typically have rounded ends.

Another common sign is chewed or damaged materials. Squirrels have strong teeth and will chew on various materials to gain access to your home or create nests. Look for gnaw marks on wood, wires, and insulation. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage.

What Squirrels Are Doing In The Colder Months

To effectively address a squirrel problem, it’s important to understand their behaviour in the colder months. Squirrels are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments. They are excellent climbers and can easily access your home through overhanging branches, utility lines, and even small openings in your roof or walls. During the winter, squirrels are particularly drawn to warm, sheltered spaces where they can build nests and store food.

Squirrels are also known for their tendency to hoard food. They will gather nuts, seeds, and other items and store them in their nests or hidden caches around your home. This behaviour can lead to increased activity and noise as they move items in and out of their nesting areas. Additionally, squirrels are territorial animals and will defend their nesting sites from other squirrels, which can result in increased aggression and noise.

By understanding these behaviours, you can better identify the signs of a squirrel infestation and take appropriate action. For example, if you notice an increase in daytime activity and noise, it could indicate that squirrels are moving food into your home or defending their territory.

Steps to Prevent Squirrels from Entering Your Home

Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with squirrels. Taking proactive measures can help keep squirrels out of your home and reduce the risk of infestation. One of the most effective ways to prevent squirrels from entering your home is to seal any potential entry points. This includes gaps in your roof, walls, and foundation. Use materials such as steel wool, metal flashing, or heavy-duty mesh to block these openings.

Another important step is to trim overhanging branches and remove any potential climbing aids near your home. Squirrels use trees and utility lines to access rooftops, so keeping branches trimmed and away from your home can reduce their ability to enter. Additionally, consider installing squirrel-proof barriers or guards on utility lines and around vents.

It’s also important to manage food sources around your home. Squirrels are attracted to bird feeders, pet food, and unsecured garbage. Ensure that bird feeders are placed away from your home and use squirrel-proof designs. Store pet food in sealed containers and secure garbage bins with tight-fitting lids.

The Role of Professional Wildlife Control

While there are steps you can take to prevent squirrels from entering your home, sometimes professional intervention is necessary. Wildlife control experts have the knowledge and tools to safely and humanely remove squirrels from your home. At Skedaddle, we specialize in wildlife control services that prioritize the well-being of both the animals and our clients.

Our team of professionals uses humane exclusion techniques to remove squirrels and prevent them from returning. This involves identifying and sealing entry points, as well as providing advice on how to make your home less attractive to squirrels. We do not trap or relocate wildlife, as this can cause stress and harm to the animals. Instead, we focus on exclusion and prevention to ensure a long-term solution.

Choosing Skedaddle means choosing a company with decades of experience in wildlife control. Our commitment to humane practices and customer satisfaction sets us apart. We understand the importance of addressing wildlife issues promptly and effectively, and we are dedicated to providing the highest level of service to our clients.

Why Skedaddle is the Best Choice for Wildlife Control in Toronto

When it comes to dealing with a squirrel infestation, choosing the right wildlife control service is crucial. Skedaddle stands out as the best choice for several reasons. First and foremost, our approach is humane. We prioritize the well-being of the animals while ensuring that your home is protected. This means we do not use traps or relocation methods that can cause unnecessary stress or harm to the squirrels.

In addition to our humane practices, we have a team of highly trained professionals with extensive experience in wildlife control. Our experts are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively address squirrel infestations and prevent them from recurring. We understand the importance of timely intervention and work diligently to provide prompt and reliable service.

Furthermore, we place a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. Our goal is to provide a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients. From the initial inspection to the final exclusion, we keep you informed and involved in the process. We also offer valuable advice on how to make your home less attractive to squirrels, helping you maintain a squirrel-free environment long after our job is done.

Humane and Effective Solutions

Recognizing the signs of a squirrel infestation in winter is essential for protecting your home and maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment. By understanding squirrel behaviour, taking preventive measures, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can effectively address this common issue.

At Skedaddle, we are committed to providing humane and effective wildlife control services. Our team of experts is ready to help you identify and resolve squirrel infestations, ensuring that your home remains safe and squirrel-free. If you suspect a squirrel infestation or want to learn more about our services, contact us today. Take the first step towards a squirrel-free home and experience the peace of mind that comes with professional wildlife control.

Recognize the signs, take action, and protect your home this winter. Skedaddle is here to help every step of the way.