Squirrels are charming creatures to watch, but when they find their way into your home, they can cause significant damage and pose health risks. At Critter Control of Toledo, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with squirrel infestations, and we’re here to help you identify the signs early and take swift action before the problem gets worse. In this article, we’ll explain how to recognize a squirrel infestation and why it’s crucial to address the issue as soon as possible.
Signs of a Squirrel Infestation
Squirrels are skilled at finding their way into attics, walls, and other sheltered spaces in your home, especially as the weather turns colder. If you suspect that squirrels have made your home their own, here are some common signs to look out for:
Noises in the Attic or Walls
Squirrels are most active during the early morning or late evening hours, making them easy to hear as they scurry about in your attic or walls. You may hear scratching, gnawing, or scampering sounds as they move around or build nests. These noises are often amplified when the squirrels are trying to make their way in and out of the area.
Visible Damage to Roofing or Entry Points
Squirrels can cause significant damage to roofing materials as they chew their way through shingles, vents, and soffits to gain access to your attic or home. If you notice holes or chewed areas around your roofline, fascia, or eaves, it's a strong indication that squirrels are attempting to enter your home.
Gnaw Marks on Wood, Wiring, or Insulation
Squirrels are notorious for gnawing on various materials, and their teeth can cause extensive damage to wooden beams, insulation, wiring, and even plastic pipes. If you notice gnaw marks or exposed wiring in your attic or walls, this is a serious sign of a squirrel infestation that needs immediate attention.
Squirrel Droppings
Finding small, dark droppings in your attic, near entry points, or in corners of rooms is another telltale sign of squirrels. Squirrel droppings can carry harmful bacteria and parasites that pose health risks to your family. If you spot droppings, it’s crucial to act quickly to remove them and sanitize the area.
Nesting Materials
Squirrels often gather leaves, twigs, and other natural materials to build nests in secluded spaces. If you find these materials in your attic, walls, or even your chimney, it’s likely that squirrels have taken up residence inside your home. They prefer areas with easy access to food and warmth, so attics are prime real estate for these furry intruders.
Sightings of Squirrels Near Your Home
Seeing squirrels on your property, particularly near your roof, can also be a sign that they’re attempting to get inside. While squirrels are naturally curious and may scurry across fences or trees, persistent sightings around your home’s entry points could indicate that they are scouting for an entry into your attic or walls.
Why You Need to Act Fast
While squirrels may seem harmless at first, they can cause serious damage to your home and put your health at risk. Here’s why it’s essential to take action quickly if you suspect a squirrel infestation:
Structural Damage
Once inside your home, squirrels can chew through wood, electrical wiring, insulation, and more. This gnawing behavior can weaken the structure of your home and increase the risk of costly repairs. The longer squirrels are allowed to stay, the more damage they can inflict on your property, making early intervention crucial.
Fire Hazards
Squirrels have a habit of chewing on electrical wires, which can lead to short circuits or even fires. Exposed wiring increases the risk of sparks and can quickly lead to a fire, especially in hidden areas like attics, where fires can spread undetected for longer periods. Removing squirrels and inspecting electrical wiring should be a top priority to avoid potential fire hazards.
Health Risks
Squirrels can carry diseases such as Leptospirosis, Salmonella, and Rabies, which can be transmitted through their droppings, urine, or bites. Additionally, squirrel nests can host parasites like fleas, mites, and ticks that can spread to your family and pets. The longer squirrels remain in your home, the greater the health risks become.
Property Value Decline
A squirrel infestation can significantly impact the value of your home. Structural damage, mold growth from moisture buildup, and pest infestations due to holes left by squirrels can lower your property’s appeal to potential buyers. Addressing the problem as soon as possible can help maintain your home’s value and prevent long-term issues.
Increased Breeding Risks
Squirrels typically breed twice a year, which means that a small infestation can quickly turn into a large one. Squirrel babies are born blind and helpless, which means that you could have an entire litter of squirrels nesting in your attic. The longer you wait to address the issue, the larger the infestation will become.
How Critter Control of Toledo Can Help
If you suspect that you have a squirrel infestation, it’s essential to get professional help right away. At Critter Control of Toledo, we specialize in humane, effective wildlife control and can quickly identify and address any squirrel problems in your home.
Here’s how we can assist you:
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Inspection and Assessment: We conduct a thorough inspection of your home to identify any signs of squirrel activity, locate entry points, and assess the extent of the damage.
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Safe and Humane Removal: Our expert team uses safe, humane methods to remove squirrels from your home and relocate them away from your property.
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Exclusion and Prevention: We seal entry points to prevent future infestations, ensuring that squirrels can’t re-enter your home.
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Damage Repair and Cleanup: We handle repairs for any damage caused by squirrels, including sealing holes, replacing insulation, and cleaning up droppings to prevent health risks.
Squirrel infestations may start small, but they can quickly escalate into a serious problem if left unchecked. Recognizing the signs of a squirrel invasion and acting fast is key to preventing costly damage and protecting your home and health. If you suspect that squirrels have taken up residence in your home, don’t wait—contact Critter Control of Toledo today. Our team is ready to provide professional, humane solutions to keep your home safe from wildlife.