Gainesville’s tree-lined neighborhoods and mild winters make it a haven—not just for residents, but for squirrels too. While they may look cute leaping through your yard, these furry acrobats can quickly become a nuisance when they sneak into attics or crawl spaces. So, why is your home so appealing? With plenty of trees, consistent warmth, and cozy shelter, it’s the perfect place for squirrels to nest—especially in cooler months. Here’s how to spot the signs of a squirrel infestation and what you can do to keep them out for good.
Spotting the Signs of a Squirrel Infestation
What’s the Big Deal About Squirrels Indoors?
You might not mind the occasional squirrel darting across your yard, but when they sneak indoors, it’s a whole different story. These furry invaders are more than just a nuisance. They can wreak havoc on your home and even create risks.
- They chew on everything: Squirrels don’t just nibble on acorns. Once inside, they’ll gnaw on wooden beams, insulation, and even electrical wires to keep their teeth in check. A chewed wire is not only expensive to fix but also a fire hazard.
- They mess up the attic: Squirrels are like tiny interior decorators—but in the worst way possible. They’ll shred insulation to make cozy nests and drag in leaves, paper, and debris. Goodbye, clean attic.
- They bring health risks: Squirrels leave behind droppings, urine, and sometimes even bugs like fleas or ticks. These can lead to unpleasant odors, bacteria, and diseases you definitely don’t want to deal with.
How Do You Know a Squirrel Has Moved Into Your Home?
Squirrels aren’t exactly subtle when they’ve decided your house is the perfect hangout. Look (and listen) for these signs of squirrel shenanigans:
- Scampering sounds
Mornings and evenings might be filled with the pitter-patter of tiny feet. If you hear scratching or scampering noises in the walls or ceiling, squirrels may be making themselves comfortable. - Chew marks
Keep an eye out for bite marks on wires, wood, or vents. These little critters have sharp teeth and aren’t afraid to use them. - Droppings
Squirrel droppings are similar to rat droppings but slightly larger. You’ll usually find them in the attic, garage, or near stored items. - Messy nests
If you notice torn insulation, piles of leaves, or even stashes of paper in corners or tucked away spots, a squirrel has likely set up camp. - Bad smells
The combination of droppings, urine, and any food scraps they’ve brought indoors can create quite an unpleasant aroma.
Outdoor Clues That Squirrels Are Lurking
Before squirrels make their grand entrance, they’ll often leave noticeable signs around your property. Watch for:
- Chew holes near rooflines, soffits, or attic vents.
- Squirrels scurrying along power lines or frequently running across your roof.
- Gnawed tree branches or stripped bark, especially on trees close to your home.
How to Keep Squirrels Out (Politely, Of Course)
The good news? You can act now to prevent squirrels from taking over your space. Here’s how to make your home less appealing to these fuzzy invaders:
- Seal Up Every Possible Entry: Go around your home and check for any gaps or holes in your roof, soffits, or eaves. Patch up these spots, and cover attic vents with strong mesh to keep squirrels from sneaking in.
- Keep Trees Trimmed: Squirrels are excellent jumpers. Reduce their access by trimming tree branches so they’re at least six feet away from your roof.
- Don’t Feed the Guests: Make food sources hard to come by. Use squirrel-proof bird feeders, secure trash can lids, and avoid leaving pet food outside. A little extra effort can discourage curious squirrels from hanging around.
- Tidy Up the Yard: Squirrels love clutter like fallen leaves, nuts, and fruit. Keep your yard clean and free of debris, and you’ll make it harder for them to find nesting materials.
- Fix Damage ASAP: If you notice damage to your roofline or home’s exterior, fix it quickly. Small gaps or cracks are practically an open invitation for squirrels to slip inside.
When DIY Isn’t Enough For A Squirrel Infestation
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, squirrels still find a way in. If your squirrel infestation feels like it’s out of control, it’s smart to call in the pros. Pest control experts can:
- Humanely remove squirrels from your home.
- Seal all entry points to keep them out for good.
- Repair the damage and help you reclaim your attic or crawl space.
Trying to remove squirrels yourself can be dangerous. These critters may look cute, but they can be aggressive and unpredictable when threatened. Leave it to the wildlife control professionals for the best results and peace of mind.
