Squirrels are very common pests that homeowners in South Jersey and the Philadelphia metro area have to deal with each year. They start to become a problem when they enter homes in the fall and throughout the winter to build nests in attics. However, squirrels can build nests inside of an attic or soffit at any time of the year.
Finding squirrels in your home can be stressful, and it’s normal to panic if you come across wildlife indoors. However, to protect your property and safety, it’s important that you know what to do if you have squirrels. Read on to learn more from the experts at Cooper Pest Solutions.
Types of Squirrels in South Jersey and the Philadelphia metro area
While there are roughly 45 squirrel species, you’re really only likely to find one of two here in South Jersey and the Philadelphia metro area. Here are the two most common types of squirrels in our area and how you can identify them:
- Eastern Gray Squirrel: This is the most common species in our area. They are a mixture of gray and brown with a white underbelly, though some can also be pure black in color. Most measure between 8 and 10 inches in length with a long, bushy tail. Eastern gray squirrels primarily feed on things like walnuts, acorns, and birdseed.
- Flying Squirrels: Though not as common as Eastern gray squirrels, flying squirrels have been known to nest in local attics. They generally get in attics after finding damaged shingles or vents that lead indoors. Unlike Eastern gray squirrels, flying squirrels are nocturnal, so if you hear scurrying above you at night, it could be this type of pest.
Are Squirrels Dangerous?
Squirrels, while seemingly harmless, can pose significant dangers to your property and your health when they take up residence in your home. The main reasons why squirrels are dangerous include:
- Risk of rabies and other disease: Squirrels may carry diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis, which can be transmitted to humans and pets through bites, scratches, or contact with their droppings.
- Prevalence of fleas and ticks: Like other rodents, squirrels often attract pests like fleas or ticks. These pests aren’t just annoying, but they can also spread diseases to humans and other animals through their bites.
- Possible fire hazard: Squirrels have a habit of gnawing on electrical wires, which can lead to short circuits and potential fire hazards, posing risks to both property and personal safety.
Signs that You Have Squirrels
Detecting a squirrel infestation early is crucial in preventing potential damage to your home. Squirrels are resourceful creatures that can find their way into attics, crawl spaces, and walls, often unnoticed until signs become apparent. Here are some key indicators that you may have squirrels sharing your living space:
- Scratching or scampering noises
- Visible damage, especially from gnawing
- Small, pellet-like droppings
- Increased squirrel activity outdoors
- Strange odors, usually resulting from urine
- The appearance of “water damage” on your ceiling
How to Prevent Squirrels
Squirrels are notorious for finding their way into homes, and like most other types of rodents, they can be difficult to prevent. That said, with some proactive measures, you can deter them from making your property their nesting ground. To keep squirrels out of your attic, try the tips below.
1. Inspect and Repair Your Roof
The best way to prevent squirrel infestations is to make sure all areas on your and around your roof are secured and free of any damage and wear and tear. Take a look around your roof and above the highest story of your home. Are there torn screens, broken gable vents, aged gutters, or other openings? Repairing all of these areas will block off easy access points for squirrel nesting.
2. Trim Your Trees
Keep trees trimmed back at least 6-8 feet away from your home to eliminate natural bridges that squirrels can use to access your gutters and attic. Trim branches that overhang or touch the roof to prevent squirrels from gaining easy entry.
3. Install Squirrel-Proof Features
There are a lot of squirrel-proof products on the market, and many of them can be quite effective when used properly. Some of the best to try are:
- Chimney caps
- Vent covers
- Wire mesh for other openings
- Squirrel-proof bird feeders
4. Secure Your Garbage Bins
Make sure garbage bins are tightly sealed to prevent squirrels from scavenging for food scraps. Use bins with secure lids and consider storing them in a secure location away from the house if possible.
5. Avoid Leaving Out Birdseed
It may be pretty to look outside and see a yard full of birds, but it isn’t worth having squirrels in your attic. Refrain from feeding wildlife, including birds and squirrels, as it can attract them to your property and encourage them to stick around. Keep bird feeders away from trees and use squirrel-proof feeders if necessary.
6. Keep Your Property Tidy
Keep your property clean and free of debris that could attract squirrels, such as fallen fruits, nuts, or birdseed. Regularly clean up outdoor eating areas and ensure that pet food is stored securely indoors.
Cooper's Exclusion Service
If you find yourself facing a squirrel infestation, calling a squirrel or wildlife removal company is your best bet. Attempting to approach or capture squirrels on your own can be risky, as these animals may become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered. Even if you do manage to relocate the squirrels, they will likely return in a short amount of time.
Instead, it's best to contact a certified wildlife removal service like Cooper Pest Solutions. Our team of experts specializes in humane squirrel removal techniques, safely and efficiently relocating these pests away from your property. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Cooper Pest Solutions provides comprehensive solutions to address your squirrel infestation quickly. Call us today if you need squirrel removal!
