If there are squirrels in the park, they’re charming. If there are squirrels in your attic or chimney, they can pose a risk to your home’s structure and your health.
Our animal experts at Chimney Sweeps of America can protect you by humanely removing these cute but unwanted pests from your home.
However, by learning these 9 facts about squirrels, you’ll know how to protect your home and perhaps, never need to give us a call. Let’s get to it.
#1 Nesting
Squirrels typically look for a warm, dry place to nest mid-December and January, as well as the early part of the summer. But a squirrel invasion of your home can happen any time of the year.
#2 Action
If you own the property, you’re responsible for removing invading squirrels. Government agencies will sometimes help with domestic animals and big game animals but not wild pests.
#3 Location
Our customers frequently report squirrels in their attics, chimneys and sometimes the walls.
#4 Destruction
Squirrels in your home or business are smelly, noisy, and destructive. Squirrels are rodents, so they need to constantly chew to keep their teeth worn down. They will chew vents, wood, wires, siding and plastic pipes (which can cause flooding in your home).
Plus, their urine and feces can not only lead to horrible smells but diseases like salmonella.
#5 Health
Beyond salmonella, squirrels sometimes carry rabies as well as tetanus, parasites, fleas, and ticks.
#6 Attraction
Squirrels want safety, shelter, and food sources. Your home likely meets all of these criteria, making it a highly attractive option. Many homes are squirrel utopias complete with bird feeders, free-flowing pet food, and gardens. They can pop out of your attic, grab a bite to eat and return to the safety of their nest. Even better? For expectant squirrels, your home is a warm and comfortable place to raise babies.
#7 Attacks
Unless they are provoked, squirrels are typically docile. If cornered, especially if they are protecting their young, squirrels will then bite and scratch to defend themselves.
#8 Entry
One of the more alarming facts about squirrels is that they are nearly impossible to keep out. Squirrels can get into your home through small gaps like unscreened vents and holes made by birds or the squirrels themselves. They get in through your chimney, gaps in your siding, and shingles. They can also reach your home from trees and wires.
#9 Signs
If you already see squirrels at your bird feeders or pet bowls, they may be in your house. You’ll hear a lot of noise like scurrying, thumping, and scratching coming from your walls, attic, or chimney.
Also look for damage to your home like chewed holes or urine stains seeping through your ceilings, and be aware of bad smells.
If there are squirrels in your attic or chimney, there’s no need to panic. Simply give our animal experts at Chimney Sweeps of America a call, and we can humanely remove squirrels from your home. If you need more information and assistance beyond these facts about squirrels, give us a call.