How Squirrels Invade Homes in the Winter
Temperatures are beginning to drop here in the Pacific Northwest and not only do we humans notice it, but rodents like squirrels do too — they have to live in it! However, if they find that it isn’t cold in your home, they may want to invade it. While squirrels don’t seem as bad as rats and mice, they can still be a problem. Squirrels can bring fleas, mites, ticks, and other parasites into your home. Additionally, if these rodents invade your home, they may chew through insulation and leave behind their urine and waste.
How Does a Squirrel Get in the House?
You hear thumping and the pitter-patter of feet scurrying above you in your attic. Yep, you likely have a squirrel in your home. But how did it get there? The most common way squirrels enter homes is by jumping from a tree branch that is hanging near your home. However, like their cousin the rat, they’re also known to sneak into homes through small holes and gaps. Once a squirrel invades your home, they often can’t get back out, leading to damage to your home.
What Kind of Damage Can Squirrels Cause?
Squirrels can cause a great deal of damage to the inside and outside of your home. Squirrels may:
- Knaw on insulation, building materials, and wires
- Defecate in your attic, leaving an unpleasant odor
- Scratch walls
- Chew through siding
- Make nests
Rodent Removal
Whether it’s the noise an invading squirrel makes or their damage, your squirrel problem has to be eliminated. However, trying to remove a squirrel yourself can be dangerous. After all, they are wild animals. Your best bet is to contact a pest control company experienced with wildlife removal.
But as with any pest, prevention is key. You’ll want to seal up potential entry points in your home. This includes adding screens to your vents and any caulking gaps a squirrel may squeeze into. You’ll also want to prune tree branches that overhang your roofline. Additionally, if you keep a bird feeder on your property, place it away from your home otherwise you are attracting squirrels and rats closer to your home.
