How To Get Rid Of Squirrels In Your Attic

Squirrels in the attic? Oh boy, that's a headache nobody wants! These furry critters might seem cute scampering around outside, but once they've set up shop in your attic, they can cause some serious damage and create a real nuisance. We're talking chewed wires (fire hazard!), torn insulation (higher energy bills!), and a whole lot of noise. Plus, they can leave behind droppings and urine, which, let's be honest, is just gross and can pose health risks. So, how do you kick these unwanted tenants out and, more importantly, make sure they don't come back? Don't worry, guys, we've got you covered! This guide will walk you through the steps to effectively remove squirrels from your attic and prevent them from returning, keeping your home safe and sound.

Identifying a Squirrel Infestation

First things first, let's make sure it's actually squirrels you're dealing with. You might be thinking, "Duh, I saw a squirrel!" But sometimes, other critters like mice, rats, or even birds can make their way into your attic. So, a little detective work is in order. Identifying a squirrel infestation early on is key to preventing significant damage to your home. Squirrels, with their sharp teeth and claws, can wreak havoc on your attic insulation, wiring, and even the structural components of your house. The sooner you identify the problem, the easier and less costly it will be to resolve. Here’s what to look (and listen) for:

• Noises: This is usually the first sign. Squirrels are most active during the day (diurnal), so you'll likely hear them scurrying, scratching, and chewing in the morning and evening. The sounds are distinct – heavier and more pronounced than those of mice. You might hear them running across the ceiling, scrambling in the walls, or even gnawing sounds. These noises are often the first indication that you have uninvited guests, and they should prompt you to investigate further.
• Droppings: Squirrel droppings are small, oblong pellets, similar in size to large grains of rice. You'll typically find them in concentrated areas, such as near their entry points, nests, or feeding spots. Identifying droppings is crucial not only for confirming a squirrel infestation but also for distinguishing it from other pests. Squirrel droppings are a clear sign of their presence and can help you pinpoint their activity areas within your attic. This information is invaluable when setting traps or planning exclusion strategies.
• Damage: Look for signs of chewing on wires, wood, and other materials. Squirrels need to gnaw constantly to keep their teeth from growing too long, and your attic provides plenty of tempting chew toys. This chewing habit is one of the most dangerous aspects of a squirrel infestation. Chewed electrical wires pose a significant fire hazard, while damage to wooden beams and supports can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Inspect your attic for gnaw marks on wiring, rafters, and stored items. Also, check for torn insulation, as squirrels often use it to build their nests. This damage not only necessitates costly repairs but also creates an inviting environment for other pests and can lead to increased energy bills due to heat loss.
• Nests: Squirrels build nests (dreys) out of leaves, twigs, and other soft materials like insulation. These nests are typically located in secluded areas of the attic, such as corners, behind boxes, or in wall cavities. Finding a nest is a definitive sign of a long-term squirrel presence. Squirrel nests are not only unsightly but also serve as breeding grounds. Female squirrels often have multiple litters per year, so a single nest can quickly turn into a large infestation. Identifying and removing nests is a critical step in the squirrel removal process. In addition to the physical nests, look for signs of nesting behavior, such as trails of leaves or insulation leading to a particular area. Once you've located a nest, you can better assess the scope of the infestation and plan your removal strategy. Don't forget to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, when handling nesting materials to avoid exposure to potential pathogens.
• Entry Points: Squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small openings – even a hole the size of a golf ball is enough for them to get in. Inspect your roof, vents, eaves, and soffits for any potential entry points. Look for holes, cracks, or gaps in your home’s exterior. Squirrels are adept climbers and can access your attic through various routes, including tree branches overhanging your roof, gaps in siding, and unsecured vents. Identifying and sealing entry points is paramount to preventing future infestations. Once you've removed the squirrels from your attic, you must address these vulnerabilities to ensure they don't return. Use durable materials like metal flashing or hardware cloth to seal openings. Remember to inspect your entire home, not just the attic, for potential entry points, as squirrels may be using multiple routes to access your property. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs of any exterior damage can go a long way in preventing squirrel infestations.

How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Attic

Okay, so you've confirmed you have squirrels. Time for action! But hold on, guys, before you reach for that poison or start setting up lethal traps, let's talk about a more humane approach. Poison can harm other animals (including your pets!), and lethal traps are, well, lethal. We want to get rid of the squirrels, not cause unnecessary suffering. So, let's focus on humane squirrel removal. This involves a combination of exclusion and, if necessary, live trapping. The goal is to remove the squirrels without harming them and prevent them from re-entering your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you evict your furry tenants:

1. Inspection: A thorough inspection is the first and most critical step in the squirrel removal process. Before you can effectively remove the squirrels, you need to understand the scope of the infestation and identify all potential entry points. Start by inspecting your attic thoroughly, looking for signs of squirrel activity such as droppings, nests, and damage to insulation or wiring. Pay close attention to areas where squirrels are likely to nest, such as corners, behind stored items, and in wall cavities. Next, inspect the exterior of your home for potential entry points. Squirrels are excellent climbers and can access your attic through various routes, including tree branches overhanging your roof, gaps in siding, and unsecured vents. Look for holes, cracks, or gaps in your home’s exterior, especially around the roofline, vents, and soffits. Remember, squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small openings – even a hole the size of a golf ball is enough for them to gain entry. Use binoculars to inspect hard-to-reach areas and consider using a ladder for a closer look at your roof. Document all potential entry points, as you'll need this information later when sealing them off. Finally, try to determine the number of squirrels in your attic. This will help you gauge the size of the infestation and plan your removal strategy accordingly. Listen for the sounds of squirrels moving around, and look for patterns in their activity. Are they most active in the morning or evening? Are there signs of multiple squirrels, such as multiple nests or large amounts of droppings? A comprehensive inspection will provide you with the information you need to develop an effective squirrel removal plan.
2. One-Way Exits: This is often the most effective and humane way to get rid of squirrels. A one-way exit allows squirrels to leave your attic but prevents them from getting back in. These devices typically consist of a wire mesh tunnel that is attached to the entry point. The squirrels can push their way out, but the design prevents them from re-entering. Installing one-way exits is a crucial step in humane squirrel removal. These devices are designed to allow squirrels to exit your attic but prevent them from re-entering. This method is preferred over trapping because it avoids direct contact with the animals and reduces the stress of capture. Before installing a one-way exit, you must first identify the primary entry points that the squirrels are using. These are the areas where you've observed the most squirrel activity, such as holes in the roof, gaps in the siding, or unsecured vents. Once you've identified the entry points, you can purchase or construct a one-way exit. These devices are typically made of wire mesh or plastic and feature a door or tunnel that allows the squirrels to push their way out but prevents them from pushing their way back in. There are several types of one-way exits available, including tunnel traps and exclusion funnels. Tunnel traps are small, wire mesh cages with a one-way door that allows squirrels to exit but not re-enter. Exclusion funnels are cone-shaped devices that attach to the entry point and allow squirrels to slip out but prevent them from climbing back in. When installing a one-way exit, it's essential to attach it securely to the entry point. Use screws or nails to ensure that the device is firmly in place and cannot be dislodged by the squirrels. You may also want to use caulk or sealant to seal any gaps around the device and prevent other pests from entering. Before installing the one-way exit, make sure there are no baby squirrels in the attic. If you suspect there are young squirrels, it's best to wait until they have matured and left the nest before installing the device. Otherwise, you risk trapping the mother squirrel outside while the babies are still inside, which can lead to their death. Once the one-way exit is installed, monitor it regularly to ensure that the squirrels have left the attic. You should see a decrease in squirrel activity within a few days. After you're confident that the squirrels have left, you can remove the one-way exit and seal the entry point permanently.
3. Live Trapping (If Necessary): If one-way exits aren't feasible or you have a particularly stubborn squirrel, live trapping might be necessary. Use a humane live trap baited with peanut butter, nuts, or birdseed. Place the trap near the squirrel's entry point or in an area where you've seen a lot of activity. Live trapping squirrels is an option when one-way exits aren't feasible or when you need to remove squirrels more quickly. However, it's crucial to use humane live traps and follow best practices to minimize stress and injury to the animals. Before setting a live trap, familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding wildlife trapping and relocation. Some areas may have restrictions on trapping or require permits. Choose a live trap that is appropriately sized for squirrels, typically around 5x5x18 inches. The trap should be made of sturdy wire mesh and have a solid bottom to prevent the squirrel from escaping. Place the trap in an area where you've observed squirrel activity, such as near their entry point or along their travel routes. Squirrels are naturally wary of new objects, so it may take them a few days to enter the trap. Be patient and check the trap regularly. Bait the trap with squirrel-friendly foods such as peanut butter, nuts, seeds, or pieces of fruit. Place the bait at the back of the trap to encourage the squirrel to enter fully. Once a squirrel is trapped, it's essential to handle it with care to minimize stress and injury. Wear gloves to protect yourself from bites and scratches, and approach the trap calmly and quietly. Cover the trap with a blanket or towel to reduce the squirrel's anxiety. Relocate the squirrel to a suitable habitat at least five miles away from your home. Choose a location with plenty of trees, food, and water, such as a park or forest. Release the squirrel in an area where it is less likely to encounter other squirrels or human activity. After releasing the squirrel, clean and disinfect the trap to remove any odors or diseases. This will help prevent the spread of disease and make the trap more appealing to other squirrels. Live trapping should be used as a last resort and only when necessary. One-way exits are generally a more humane and effective way to remove squirrels from your attic. However, if live trapping is required, it's essential to follow best practices to minimize stress and injury to the animals.
4. Seal Entry Points: This is the most important step in preventing future infestations. Once you're sure all the squirrels are out, seal up any holes or gaps they used to get in. Use sturdy materials like metal flashing, hardware cloth, or caulk. Don't skimp on this step, guys! Squirrels are persistent and will find another way in if you leave an opening. Sealing entry points is the most critical step in preventing future squirrel infestations. Once you've removed the squirrels from your attic, you must seal all potential entry points to ensure they don't return. Squirrels are persistent and resourceful creatures, and they will exploit any weakness in your home's exterior to gain access. Before sealing any entry points, conduct a thorough inspection of your home's exterior to identify all potential vulnerabilities. Look for holes, cracks, or gaps in the roof, siding, vents, soffits, and foundation. Pay close attention to areas where squirrels are likely to enter, such as near tree branches, utility lines, and chimneys. Once you've identified all the entry points, you can begin sealing them. Use durable, weather-resistant materials that squirrels cannot chew through, such as metal flashing, hardware cloth, caulk, or expanding foam. For small holes and cracks, caulk or expanding foam can be used to create a tight seal. Make sure to fill the entire gap and smooth the sealant for a clean finish. For larger holes, such as those in the roof or siding, metal flashing or hardware cloth is a more effective solution. Cut the material to size and secure it over the opening with screws or nails. Overlap the edges of the material to create a tight seal and prevent squirrels from pushing their way through. Vents and chimneys are common entry points for squirrels, so it's essential to screen them off. Install wire mesh screens over vents and chimneys to prevent squirrels from entering while still allowing for proper ventilation. Make sure the screens are securely attached and made of sturdy material that squirrels cannot chew through. Tree branches overhanging your roof can provide squirrels with easy access to your attic. Trim back any branches that are within 10 feet of your roof to eliminate this pathway. Utility lines can also serve as a bridge for squirrels to reach your home. Install tree guards or squirrel guards on utility lines to prevent squirrels from climbing them. After sealing all the entry points, conduct a final inspection to ensure that no openings remain. Be thorough and meticulous, as even a small gap can be enough for a squirrel to squeeze through. Sealing entry points is a time-consuming process, but it's well worth the effort. By preventing squirrels from re-entering your attic, you can avoid future infestations and the associated damage and expenses.

Cleaning and Disinfecting the Attic

Okay, the squirrels are gone, and the entry points are sealed. Great job! But we're not done yet. Squirrels leave behind droppings, urine, and nesting materials, which can be unsanitary and attract other pests. Plus, the scent can attract other squirrels in the future. So, it's time to clean and disinfect the attic. This is a crucial step in preventing future infestations and ensuring a healthy living environment. Neglecting to clean and disinfect your attic after removing squirrels can lead to various health and hygiene issues. Squirrel droppings and urine can harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens, posing a risk to your family's health. The lingering scent of squirrels can also attract other rodents and pests to your home. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Safety First: Before you start cleaning, put on protective gear. This includes gloves, a mask (a respirator is best), and eye protection. You don't want to breathe in dust or come into direct contact with droppings. Safety is paramount when cleaning and disinfecting your attic after a squirrel infestation. Squirrel droppings and urine can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can pose a serious health risk to humans. Additionally, disturbing nesting materials can release dust and allergens into the air, which can cause respiratory problems. To protect yourself from these hazards, it's essential to wear appropriate protective gear before entering the attic. A respirator or N95 mask is crucial for preventing the inhalation of dust, mold spores, and pathogens. These masks filter out airborne particles and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Gloves are necessary to prevent direct contact with squirrel droppings, urine, and nesting materials. Choose disposable gloves made of latex, nitrile, or vinyl, and wear them throughout the cleaning process. Eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses, is essential to shield your eyes from dust, debris, and potential splashes of disinfectant. Long sleeves and pants are also recommended to protect your skin from contact with contaminated materials. Before entering the attic, open windows and doors to ventilate the area. This will help to reduce the concentration of airborne particles and odors. If possible, use a fan to circulate fresh air into the attic. Avoid touching your face or eyes while cleaning, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after removing your protective gear. If you have any cuts or abrasions on your skin, cover them with waterproof bandages to prevent infection. If you have a history of respiratory problems or a weakened immune system, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to handle the attic cleanup. Professionals have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove squirrel droppings and disinfect the attic. By taking these safety precautions, you can minimize your risk of exposure to harmful substances and ensure a safe and healthy cleaning process.
2. Remove Debris: Scoop up droppings, nesting materials, and any other debris you find. Place them in heavy-duty garbage bags and seal them tightly. Removing debris is a crucial step in cleaning and disinfecting your attic after a squirrel infestation. Squirrels leave behind droppings, urine, nesting materials, and food scraps, which can create unsanitary conditions and attract other pests. Removing this debris is essential for eliminating odors, preventing the spread of disease, and restoring a healthy environment in your attic. Start by gathering all the necessary cleaning supplies, including heavy-duty garbage bags, a scoop or shovel, a broom or vacuum cleaner, and a disinfectant solution. Wear protective gear, such as gloves, a mask, and eye protection, to avoid contact with potentially harmful substances. Begin by scooping up droppings and nesting materials with a shovel or scoop. Be careful not to stir up dust or disturb the droppings, as this can release harmful particles into the air. Place the droppings and nesting materials in heavy-duty garbage bags and seal them tightly to prevent odors and the spread of disease. Dispose of the garbage bags properly, following local regulations for waste disposal. Next, use a broom or vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining debris from the attic floor, walls, and ceiling. Pay close attention to corners, crevices, and hard-to-reach areas where droppings and nesting materials may have accumulated. If you're using a vacuum cleaner, make sure it has a HEPA filter to trap small particles and prevent them from being released back into the air. After removing the debris, inspect the attic for any damaged insulation or wiring. Squirrels often chew on insulation and wires, which can create fire hazards and reduce the energy efficiency of your home. Replace any damaged insulation and repair any chewed wires to prevent future problems. Finally, take the garbage bags outside and dispose of them in a sealed trash can. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the garbage bags. By removing all debris from your attic, you'll create a cleaner, healthier environment and reduce the risk of future pest infestations.
3. Disinfect: Use a disinfectant spray or solution to thoroughly clean the affected areas. Pay special attention to areas where you found droppings or nesting materials. A bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) works well, but always test it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't damage any surfaces. Disinfecting your attic after removing squirrels is a critical step in eliminating harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that may be present in squirrel droppings, urine, and nesting materials. These pathogens can pose a significant health risk to humans, so it's essential to thoroughly disinfect the affected areas to ensure a safe and healthy environment. Before disinfecting, make sure you have removed all debris from the attic, including droppings, nesting materials, and food scraps. Wear protective gear, such as gloves, a mask, and eye protection, to avoid contact with potentially harmful substances. Choose a disinfectant solution that is effective against a broad range of pathogens and safe for use in your attic. A bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) is a common and effective disinfectant, but it can damage certain surfaces, so it's essential to test it in an inconspicuous area first. Other disinfectant options include quaternary ammonium compounds and enzymatic cleaners. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution and application. Apply the disinfectant solution to all affected areas of the attic, including the floor, walls, ceiling, and any contaminated surfaces. Use a spray bottle or pump sprayer to apply the solution evenly and thoroughly. Pay special attention to areas where you found droppings, urine, or nesting materials, as these areas are likely to be heavily contaminated. Allow the disinfectant solution to sit on the surfaces for the recommended contact time, typically 10-15 minutes, to ensure that it effectively kills pathogens. After the contact time, wipe down the surfaces with a clean cloth or sponge to remove any residue. If you're using a bleach solution, rinse the surfaces with clean water to prevent damage or discoloration. For hard-to-reach areas, such as crevices and corners, use a brush or scrub brush to scrub the surfaces thoroughly. You may also want to use a disinfectant fogger to sanitize the entire attic space. A fogger releases a fine mist of disinfectant that can penetrate into cracks and crevices that are difficult to reach with traditional cleaning methods. After disinfecting, allow the attic to air out completely before spending extended periods of time in the space. Open windows and doors to ventilate the attic and allow any remaining disinfectant fumes to dissipate. By disinfecting your attic thoroughly, you can eliminate harmful pathogens and create a safer, healthier environment for you and your family.
4. Address Odors: Squirrel urine and droppings can leave behind a strong, unpleasant odor. Use an enzymatic cleaner to neutralize these odors. These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the organic compounds in the urine and droppings, eliminating the source of the odor. Addressing odors is an essential part of the attic cleaning process after a squirrel infestation. Squirrel urine and droppings can leave behind a strong, unpleasant odor that can permeate your home and attract other pests. Eliminating these odors is crucial for restoring a fresh, clean environment in your attic and preventing future infestations. Ordinary household cleaners may mask the odor temporarily, but they don't address the underlying cause. Enzymatic cleaners, on the other hand, contain enzymes that break down the organic compounds in urine and droppings, effectively neutralizing the odor at its source. Before using an enzymatic cleaner, make sure you have removed all debris from the attic, including droppings, nesting materials, and food scraps. Wear protective gear, such as gloves, a mask, and eye protection, to avoid contact with potentially harmful substances. Choose an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet or animal odors. These cleaners are formulated to target the specific enzymes found in animal urine and droppings. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Enzymatic cleaners are typically sprayed or poured onto the affected areas and allowed to air dry. Do not dilute the cleaner or use it in combination with other cleaning products, as this can reduce its effectiveness. Apply the enzymatic cleaner liberally to all areas where you detected squirrel urine or droppings. Pay special attention to porous surfaces, such as wood, drywall, and insulation, as these materials can absorb odors more readily. Allow the cleaner to sit on the surfaces for the recommended contact time, typically several hours or overnight. This will give the enzymes enough time to break down the organic compounds and neutralize the odor. After the contact time, allow the attic to air out completely. Open windows and doors to ventilate the space and allow any remaining odors to dissipate. If the odor persists after the initial application, repeat the process as needed. In some cases, severe odor problems may require multiple applications of enzymatic cleaner. For particularly stubborn odors, you may want to consider using an odor-absorbing product, such as activated charcoal or baking soda. Place containers of these materials in the attic to help absorb any lingering odors. By addressing odors effectively, you can create a more pleasant and hygienic environment in your attic and prevent future pest infestations.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations

You've done the hard work of getting rid of the squirrels and cleaning up the mess. Now, let's make sure they don't come back! Preventing future squirrel infestations is all about making your home less attractive to these furry intruders. This involves a combination of habitat modification and regular maintenance. Think of it as squirrel-proofing your home. Here are some key steps to take:

• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Squirrels are excellent climbers, and tree branches overhanging your roof provide them with easy access to your attic. Trim back any branches that are within 10 feet of your roof. This will make it much harder for squirrels to reach your home. Regularly trimming trees and shrubs is a crucial step in preventing future squirrel infestations. Squirrels are excellent climbers, and tree branches overhanging your roof provide them with easy access to your attic and other parts of your home. By trimming back these branches, you can eliminate a major pathway for squirrels to enter your property. Squirrels can jump surprisingly long distances, so it's essential to trim back branches that are within 8-10 feet of your roof. Use pruning shears or a saw to cut the branches cleanly, making sure not to damage the tree. If you're not comfortable trimming the branches yourself, consider hiring a professional tree service. In addition to tree branches, shrubs and bushes growing near your home can also provide squirrels with a way to access your roof. Trim back any shrubs or bushes that are touching your house or growing too close to it. You may also want to consider relocating shrubs and bushes that are particularly attractive to squirrels, such as those that produce nuts or berries. Regularly trimming trees and shrubs not only prevents squirrels from accessing your home but also improves the overall appearance of your property. Overgrown trees and shrubs can block sunlight, trap moisture, and create a breeding ground for pests. By keeping your trees and shrubs trimmed, you can promote healthy growth and prevent other problems. It's also important to maintain your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can create standing water, which attracts squirrels and other pests. Clean your gutters regularly to ensure that they are draining properly. By trimming trees and shrubs, maintaining your gutters, and taking other preventative measures, you can create a less attractive environment for squirrels and reduce the risk of future infestations.
• Secure Food Sources: Squirrels are attracted to readily available food sources. Store birdseed and pet food in airtight containers, and clean up any spilled food promptly. If you have fruit trees, pick up fallen fruit regularly. Securing food sources is a fundamental step in preventing future squirrel infestations. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders and are attracted to readily available food sources, such as birdseed, pet food, nuts, and fruits. By taking steps to secure these food sources, you can make your property less attractive to squirrels and reduce the risk of them entering your home. Bird feeders are a common source of food for squirrels. If you enjoy feeding birds, consider using squirrel-resistant feeders or placing feeders in locations that are difficult for squirrels to access. You can also use baffles or other barriers to prevent squirrels from climbing to the feeders. Store birdseed in airtight containers to prevent squirrels from accessing it. Pet food is another common attractant for squirrels. Store pet food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food bowls outside for extended periods of time. Clean up any spilled pet food promptly. If you have fruit trees on your property, pick up fallen fruit regularly. Fallen fruit can attract squirrels and other pests. You may also want to consider netting your fruit trees to prevent squirrels from accessing the fruit. Store garbage in sealed containers to prevent squirrels from scavenging for food. Make sure your garbage cans have tight-fitting lids and are stored in a secure location. If you compost, use a compost bin that is designed to keep out pests. Avoid composting food scraps that are likely to attract squirrels, such as meat, dairy, and oily foods. In addition to securing food sources, it's important to eliminate other attractants for squirrels, such as water sources and shelter. Repair any leaky pipes or faucets and clear away any debris or clutter that could provide shelter for squirrels. By securing food sources and eliminating other attractants, you can create a less inviting environment for squirrels and reduce the risk of future infestations.
• Regular Inspections: Make it a habit to inspect your home's exterior regularly for any signs of damage or potential entry points. Seal any cracks or holes as soon as you find them. Regular inspections are an essential component of preventing future squirrel infestations. By regularly inspecting your home's exterior, you can identify potential entry points and signs of squirrel activity early on, allowing you to take prompt action to prevent an infestation from developing. Make it a habit to inspect your home's exterior at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Pay close attention to areas where squirrels are likely to enter, such as the roof, vents, soffits, and foundation. Look for holes, cracks, or gaps in the siding, roofing, or other exterior materials. Squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so even a small crack or hole can provide them with access to your home. Inspect your roof for damaged shingles or flashing. Squirrels often enter homes through damaged roofing materials. Check your vents and soffits for gaps or holes. These are common entry points for squirrels, as they provide easy access to the attic. Inspect your foundation for cracks or gaps. Squirrels can enter homes through foundation cracks, especially if there are tree roots or other vegetation growing nearby. Look for signs of squirrel activity, such as droppings, nests, or gnaw marks. These signs can indicate that squirrels are present and may be attempting to enter your home. If you find any potential entry points or signs of squirrel activity, take action promptly to seal the openings and eliminate the squirrels. Seal small cracks and holes with caulk or expanding foam. For larger openings, use metal flashing or hardware cloth to create a durable barrier. Trim back any tree branches that are overhanging your roof. Squirrels can use these branches to access your roof and attic. Clean your gutters regularly to prevent them from becoming clogged with leaves and debris. Clogged gutters can provide a nesting site for squirrels. By conducting regular inspections and taking prompt action to address any potential problems, you can significantly reduce the risk of future squirrel infestations.

Dealing with squirrels in the attic can be a frustrating experience, but by following these steps, you can get rid of them humanely and prevent them from returning. Remember, guys, patience and persistence are key! Good luck, and may your attic be squirrel-free!

FAQ About Squirrels in the Attic

• What are the signs of squirrels in the attic?
• How do squirrels get into the attic?
• What damage can squirrels cause in the attic?
• When is squirrel removal season?
• How much does squirrel removal cost?