6 Signs You Have a Sneaky Squirrel Infestation

Richard Neumayer • May 10, 2024

Squirrels are adorable from afar, frolicking in parks and adding a touch of charm to our neighborhoods, but behind their bushy tails and playful antics lies a potential menace—a relentless drive to find shelter and food. Unfortunately, this drive can often lead them right into our attics, chimneys, and walls, wreaking havoc in their wake. If you suspect a squirrel infestation in your home, early detection is key. Squirrel removal specialist, Catch A Critter shares six key signs to watch out for:

1. Squirrel Droppings

Imagine this: you're cleaning your attic and stumble across a trail of tiny, oval-shaped droppings, roughly the size and color of a coffee bean. This unwelcome discovery is a classic sign of a squirrel infestation. Squirrels are prolific poopers, leaving their feces throughout their active areas. These droppings can not only be unsightly but also pose a health hazard, harboring parasites and bacteria like Salmonella and Ascariasis.

2. Gnaw and Rub Marks

Squirrels have sharp teeth that never stop growing. To keep these chompers in check, they gnaw on anything they can get their paws on. This relentless chewing can leave telltale marks on your property. Look for gouges and scratch marks on wooden beams, electrical wires, furniture legs, and even ventilation systems. Additionally, squirrels navigate their environment using scent glands on their fur. As they rub against surfaces, these oils leave behind faint brown streaks—another sign of their unwelcome presence.

3. Unusual Odors

A sudden, unpleasant smell wafting from your attic or walls can be a strong indicator of a squirrel invasion. This odor can be attributed to several factors, including:

Urine and Feces: As mentioned earlier, squirrels leave their droppings behind. Unfortunately, these droppings don't magically disappear. Over time, the accumulation of urine and feces can create a strong ammonia-like odor.
Dead Squirrel: Squirrels can sometimes find their way into attics or crawlspaces and die unnoticed. The decomposition of a dead squirrel can create a pungent and persistent odor.

4. Pet Behaviors

Our pets often have a heightened sense of smell and hearing that surpasses our own. If you notice a sudden change in your pet's behavior, it could be a sign of a hidden squirrel infestation. Here's what you need to look out for:

Increased Alertness: Your dog or cat might become more alert and focused on specific areas, particularly walls or ceilings. They may stare intently, tilt their heads, or twitch their ears as they try to pinpoint the source of the disturbance.
Excessive Barking or Vocalization: Unexplained barking or vocalization from your pet, especially at night, could be their way of alerting you to the presence of a nocturnal intruder.
Restlessness and Anxiety: A squirrel’s presence can cause anxiety in your pets. They might become restless, pace around the house, or exhibit unusual behaviors like excessive scratching or hiding.

5. Gnawed Holes

Squirrels are persistent creatures, known for their ability to chew through various materials to gain access to their desired locations. If you discover holes in your roofline, soffits, fascia boards, or exterior walls, it could be a clear sign of a squirrel trying to establish a new home. Be extra vigilant if these holes are located near potential entry points like chimneys, vents, or rooflines.

6. Squirrel Nests

Squirrels are meticulous nest builders. They use a variety of materials, like leaves, twigs, and insulation, to create cozy havens for themselves and their young. If you spot a bulky nest made of leaves and twigs in your attic, trees near your house, or even soffits, it's a strong sign of a breeding squirrel population on your property.

Conclusion

Discovering a squirrel infestation in your home can be stressful. These furry acrobats can cause a lot of damage by chewing electrical wires, gnawing through insulation, and contaminating your attic with droppings. If you suspect a squirrel infestation, don't wait! Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs and potential health risks.

Catch A Critter is the reliable choice for squirrel removal services in Cumming, Georgia, and the surrounding areas. Our wildlife specialists are equipped with the knowledge and tools to safely and humanely evict squirrels from your property. We offer a comprehensive approach to squirrel removal, including:

Thorough Inspection: Our experts will conduct a detailed inspection of your property to identify entry points, nesting sites, and the extent of the infestation.
Safe and Humane Removal: We prioritize the safety of both humans and animals. Our humane removal techniques will ensure the squirrels are safely evicted from your property without causing them harm.
Exclusion and Prevention: Once the squirrels are gone, our team will seal all potential entry points to prevent future infestations. We use high-quality materials and exclusion techniques that are effective and long-lasting such as wire mesh and metal flashing.
Restoration Services (Optional): In some cases, squirrel infestations can leave behind a mess of insulation, droppings, and nesting materials. Our team can provide comprehensive restoration services to clean and sanitize your attic, ensuring it's safe and habitable.

Here are some additional benefits of choosing Catch A Critter for your squirrel removal needs:

Over 10 years of experience: We have a proven track record of successfully removing squirrels from homes and businesses throughout North Georgia.
Licensed and insured: You can be confident that you're hiring a reputable company with the proper licensing and insurance.
Humane practices: We are committed to removing squirrels in a safe and humane manner.
Local expertise: We understand the specific challenges associated with squirrel infestations in North Georgia.
Comprehensive solutions: We offer a complete package of services to address all aspects of your squirrel problem.
Customer satisfaction guaranteed: We are committed to your satisfaction and back our work with a guarantee.

Don't let squirrels take over your home! Contact Catch A Critter today for a free quote and experience the peace of mind that comes with a squirrel-free home.

Here are some ways to reach us:

Call us at (470) 468-5111
Fill out our online contact form

Catch A Critter provides lasting solutions to your wildlife problems. Don't wait, reclaim your home today!

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Squirrel Mating Season is Here – What It Means for Your Home

By Richard Neumayer • March 21, 2025

Squirrel mating season peaks in March, increasing the risk of home infestations. Learn how to protect your attic from nesting squirrels and when to seek squirrel removal. Contact us today!

Humane Methods to Permanently Remove Squirrels from Attics

By Richard Neumayer • February 20, 2025

Discover humane methods to remove squirrels from attics permanently. Learn effective, safe strategies to protect your home. Call today for expert help!

A squirrel is looking out of a wooden box in the snow.

Winter Squirrel Problems? Protect Your Home This January

By Richard Neumayer • January 29, 2025

Winter months bring more than just chilly weather. They can also bring squirrels seeking warmth into your home. If you're tired of dealing with noisy critters in your attic or walls, you're not alone. Many homeowners face this challenge in January, but don't worry, there are humane ways to handle squirrel removal . This post covers everything you need to know about keeping your home safe and squirrel-free this winter. Why Do Squirrels Invade Homes in Winter? When the temperature drops, squirrels search for cozy spaces to nest - spaces such as attics, crawl spaces, and wall cavities make perfect shelters. They’re looking for: Warmth: Squirrels can’t tolerate freezing temperatures and need a place to stay warm. Food Storage: They often bring nuts and seeds into their nesting areas. Safety: Indoor spaces protect them from predators. Unfortunately, their presence can lead to damage like chewed wires, insulation destruction, and unpleasant odors. Signs You Have a Squirrel Problem If squirrels have moved in, you’ll likely notice these signs: Scratching Sounds: Especially in the early morning or late evening. Droppings: Found near nesting or feeding spots. Chewed Entry Points: Damaged vents, soffits, or roof edges. Nesting Materials: Shredded insulation, leaves, or fabric. How to Protect Your Home from Squirrels This January Follow these tips to protect your home: 1. Seal Entry Points Inspect your home for openings where squirrels can sneak in. Focus on: Gaps in roofing or siding. Open chimneys (install caps for extra protection). Damaged vents or screens. A small gap the size of a quarter is enough for a squirrel to squeeze through. Use durable materials like wire mesh or metal flashing to cover these areas. 2. Keep Your Yard Tidy Squirrels are drawn to cluttered yards that provide food and shelter. To make your yard less appealing: Trim tree branches away from your roof. Rake fallen nuts and fruits. Store firewood at least 20 feet from your house. This not only discourages squirrels but also other critters looking for a home. 3. Remove Food Sources Squirrels often invade homes in search of food. Take these precautions: Use sealed containers for pet food and birdseed. Avoid leaving food scraps outdoors. Keep garbage bins tightly closed. These simple steps can make your home far less attractive to wildlife. 4. Install Deterrents There are humane ways to discourage squirrels from settling near your home: Ultrasonic Devices: These emit sounds that are unpleasant to squirrels but safe for humans and pets. Natural Repellents: Use scents like peppermint oil near entry points. Motion-Activated Sprinklers: These can scare squirrels away from your yard. Why Humane Squirrel Removal Matters It’s tempting to resort to harmful methods, but they’re not necessary. Humane squirrel removal in Cumming , focuses on relocating squirrels without causing harm and preventing their return through exclusion techniques. This approach respects wildlife while protecting your property. According to the Humane Society, methods like one-way doors allow squirrels to exit safely but block re-entry. This minimizes stress on the animal and avoids unnecessary harm. When to Call for Professional Help Sometimes, DIY methods aren’t enough. If squirrels persist despite your efforts, it’s time to consider professional squirrel removal . A licensed wildlife removal service can: Safely trap and relocate squirrels. Repair damage and seal entry points. Provide advice on long-term prevention. Catch A Critter , with its eco-conscious and humane practices, is a trusted option for homeowners dealing with squirrel issues. FAQs About Squirrel Removal Can I Remove Squirrels Myself? You can try, but it’s tricky and may not be legal in some areas. Always check local regulations and prioritize humane methods. Do Squirrels Cause Fire Hazards? Yes. Squirrels often chew on electrical wiring, which increases the risk of fires. This is one of the top reasons to address the issue quickly. How Long Does Squirrel Removal Take? It depends on the size of the infestation. Professionals often resolve the issue within a week. Why Choose Catch A Critter for Squirrel Removal At Catch A Critter , we understand how frustrating and overwhelming squirrel problems can be. That’s why we prioritize humane removal techniques that are effective and eco-friendly. Our team is passionate about protecting your home and wildlife, giving you peace of mind without harming the environment. Conclusion Winter squirrel problems don’t have to ruin the start of your year. From sealing entry points to calling a trusted wildlife removal service like Catch A Critter , there are many ways to protect your home. Squirrels can cause significant damage, but with the right steps, you can keep your property safe and cozy this winter. If you’re ready to take action, contact Catch A Critter today for compassionate, effective squirrel removal solutions.