Can Squirrels Live in Attics

Can Squirrels Live in Attics?

Squirrels can absolutely live in attics. Attics are quiet, sheltered areas above ground – perfect for a little squirrel to build a nest. Attic invasions are common in suburbs and forested areas. Though they probably won’t attack you, squirrels should be removed quickly because they will cause a lot of damage. Squirrels are known to chew on electrical wire and ruin attic insulation, costing hundreds or thousands in repairs. Give us a call if you have been hearing noises in the attic or if you are interested in having an inspection. We will find the squirrels and remove them safely.

Squirrels are omnivorous rodents that can be found all over the world. The most common species in Ontario are the red squirrel and the Eastern grey. Both squirrels live in trees and feed on seeds, nuts, buds, insects, and berries. As rodents, their teeth are constantly growing. This allows them to gnaw on tougher foods and manipulate their environments, building nests out of carefully woven branches and leaves. Squirrels build these nests to wait out the winter’s cold and raise their young. If there’s a squirrel in your attic, it might have babies. The mating season occurs in early spring and midsummer.

Like trees, attics present squirrels with an opportunity to nest above ground. Squirrels recognize that they are safe, warm, and in close proximity to food. To get inside, they will chew their way through roof vents, soffits, or gaps along the roof’s edge. Squirrels have incredibly strong teeth that let them chew through practically anything. Wood, plastic, and thin metals are no match for a squirrel’s teeth. If there is an opening on the roof, they will chew their way through. Once inside, squirrels like to nest in the soffits or insulation of the attic.

How to Get Rid of Squirrels in the Attic

The best way you can get rid of squirrels is to hire a professional wildlife remover. He or she will find the entrance to the nest, then install a one-way door to it. This will let the squirrels out safely. When they want to leave, the animals will simply push their way through the door. Once out, the technician will return and replace the door with an impenetrable mesh. What you can do to help is cut tree branches away from the roof of the house and put bird feeders away. Pick up any fruit that has fallen to the ground and tidy up the yard.

The services that wildlife removers provide are invaluable. They can not only remove the squirrels for you but identify every other vulnerability on your roof that could lead to more problems with wildlife in the future. They can then strengthen these weak spots to ensure that no more squirrels get in the attic. Call us today if you have any questions. We provide affordable and reliable squirrel removal services in Peterborough and throughout the GTA.