Why Squirrels Move In During Fall
As temperatures drop and daylight shortens, squirrels begin preparing for winter. That preparation often includes finding a sheltered space to nest and store food. Unfortunately, your attic offers exactly what they need: warmth, protection from predators, and an ideal nesting environment filled with soft insulation. Once inside, squirrels can quickly cause damage by chewing through wood, wires, and ductwork, or contaminating insulation with droppings and urine.
Common Signs of a Squirrel Infestation
Squirrel activity is often most noticeable in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. If you hear fast scurrying, scratching, or gnawing sounds coming from your ceiling or walls, particularly around dawn or dusk, squirrels may be the cause. You might also notice visible damage near your roofline, like gnawed soffits, roof vents, or attic louvers. In the attic itself, look for droppings, nesting materials, chewed wires, and areas where insulation has been pushed aside or shredded. A strong musky odor can also develop as urine and waste accumulate.
The Dangers of DIY Squirrel Removal
While it may seem like a quick fix to seal up an entry point or set a trap, DIY squirrel removal can make the problem worse. Blocking off access points without confirming all squirrels are out of the attic can trap them inside. A trapped squirrel will panic, potentially causing further damage in an attempt to escape. Worse, if a mother squirrel is separated from her babies, she may try to chew her way back in, or the young may die in your attic, leading to unpleasant odors and serious health risks. Squirrel removal should always be handled with care, and knowledge of their nesting behavior, especially in the fall when litters may still be dependent on their mothers.
How Wildlife X Team Handles Squirrel Problems
At Wildlife X Team, we understand that squirrel problems are more than just a nuisance, they’re a serious risk to your home and your family’s safety. That’s why we use a humane and comprehensive approach. Our trained technicians begin with a full inspection of your home to locate all possible entry points and assess the extent of the infestation. From there, we install one-way exclusion devices that allow squirrels to exit the attic but prevent them from reentering. If babies are present, we take extra steps to safely reunite and relocate the family. Once the squirrels are out, we provide cleanup and sanitation services, repair damage to your attic or roof, and secure all vulnerable areas to prevent future access.
How to Keep Squirrels Out for Good
Prevention is the best way to protect your home from squirrel invasions. Begin by trimming tree branches at least six feet away from your roof to eliminate easy access. Inspect your attic, eaves, vents, and chimneys for gaps or openings and seal them using squirrel-proof materials like heavy-gauge wire mesh. Install vent covers and chimney caps, and be sure to store birdseed, pet food, and other attractants in sealed containers. Scheduling a seasonal inspection each fall can also help you catch potential problems before they become infestations.
Contact Wildlife X Team Before the Damage Spreads
If you suspect squirrels have moved into your attic this fall, don’t wait. The longer they stay, the more extensive the damage can become. Wildlife X Team offers fast, humane, and effective solutions for removing squirrels and keeping them out for good. Contact us today for an inspection and protect your home before winter sets in.