Squirrels are commonly seen scurrying around Traverse City’s parks, backyards, and trees, but when they start invading your home, they can quickly become a nuisance. Whether they’re causing damage to your attic, chewing through wires, or leaving droppings throughout your home, a squirrel invasion can lead to serious problems. If you’re facing this issue, it’s essential to understand why squirrels are drawn to your home and what you can do to keep them out.
Why Squirrels Invade Homes
Squirrels typically seek shelter in homes during the colder months, looking for warmth and safety. Attics, chimneys, and wall cavities are prime locations for squirrels to nest. They’re also attracted to food sources, including pet food or birdseed left outside, and they might even chew on your home's exterior to gain entry. These clever animals can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, which makes them excellent at finding their way inside.
Signs of a Squirrel Infestation
Early detection is key to preventing further damage. Look for the following signs that squirrels may have entered your home:
- Noises in the Attic or Walls: Scratching, scurrying, or thumping noises, especially at night, are a strong indication that squirrels have moved in.
- Chewed Materials: Squirrels may chew on wood, insulation, and wires as they create nests or search for food.
- Droppings and Urine: Squirrel droppings and urine, which may be found in attics or other secluded areas, can cause unpleasant odors and contribute to health risks.
- Visible Damage: Holes in the walls, roof, or attic vents are signs that squirrels are attempting to enter or have already made their way inside.
How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Home
Preventing a squirrel infestation starts with addressing areas where they might enter and eliminating potential attractants. Here are some effective strategies to keep squirrels away:
Seal Entry Points: Thoroughly inspect your home’s exterior for any holes or gaps that squirrels could use to gain access. Pay special attention to areas around rooflines, vents, and eaves. Use steel mesh or hardware cloth to seal these openings, as squirrels can chew through softer materials like wood or plastic.
Trim Tree Branches: Squirrels can leap from nearby tree branches onto your roof. Trim back any overhanging branches that are within 10 feet of your home to prevent easy access.
Remove Food Sources: Squirrels are often drawn to homes that offer easy food sources. Keep pet food and birdseed indoors, or use squirrel-proof feeders. Also, clean up any fallen fruit, nuts, or seeds from trees in your yard.
Install Chimney Caps: If squirrels are using your chimney as an entry point, install a chimney cap to prevent them from gaining access. Make sure it’s tightly secured and made of durable material.
Use Squirrel Deterrents: Natural deterrents, such as predator urine or strong-smelling substances like peppermint oil or cayenne pepper, can discourage squirrels from nesting in your attic. Additionally, consider installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers to startle them.
Repair Roof and Foundation Gaps: Check for loose shingles or any cracks in your roof and foundation. Even small gaps can allow squirrels to squeeze inside. Ensure your roof is in good condition and repair any holes in the walls or foundation immediately.
Hire a Professional: If you suspect you have a squirrel infestation, it’s best to contact a professional wildlife control expert. At Critter Control of Traverse City, we specialize in humane squirrel removal and exclusion services, ensuring that the problem is addressed thoroughly and safely.
Dealing with an Existing Squirrel Infestation
If squirrels have already made their way into your home, it’s important to address the infestation as quickly as possible. Trying to handle the situation on your own can be difficult and dangerous. Squirrels can cause significant damage to insulation, electrical wiring, and structural components of your home. Moreover, they may carry diseases, such as leptospirosis or hantavirus, which can be transmitted through their droppings or urine.
Professional wildlife control experts can identify the source of the infestation, remove the squirrels safely, and implement exclusion measures to prevent them from returning. In some cases, they may also offer attic clean-up and repair services to restore any damage caused by the squirrels.
Squirrel invasions are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage to your home and pose health risks to your family. By taking proactive steps to seal entry points, remove attractants, and deter squirrels from entering, you can protect your home from these clever creatures.