How do I know I have a squirrel infestation?

Squirrels belong to the family Sciuridae, featuring a plethora of small to medium-size rodents. One of the more distinctive characteristics of squirrels is their bushy tail, for which the name squirrel was derived. Just like the rest of the wildlife you encounter, squirrels are always on the hunt for food and a safe home to produce offspring. Because urbanization has invaded what was once their natural habitat, squirrels have adapted and found a good alternative in human houses, and this is where conflict between humans and wildlife begins.

Squirrels not only pose health risks for you and your family but also cause serious damage to your property. While they may be small in size, a bunch of squirrels inhabiting your attic can chew up wires and certain elements of your home. They may also damage your furniture and defecate and urinate all over your place. You should also remember that these wild animals carry parasites with them, and if a squirrel lives in your home, it is only a matter of time for ticks and fleas to find their way to you, your family or your pets.

Homeowners should be wary of wild animals, and this includes squirrels no matter how harmless they seem to be. You are in for some great trouble in the future if you let these little critters stay in your home.  Now how would you know if your house is indeed infested with squirrels?

1. Presence of squirrel droppings

• This is a tell-tale sign. Droppings mean that they have been in your house long enough to produce them. Somewhere between your walls, or in your attic, a squirrel and/or its family thrives. If you see cylindrical droppings that are reddish brown in color and are up to 8 millimeters in length, then you can be sure you’re infested with squirrels. These droppings are usually found near their nests and the heavily traveled areas.

2. Chattering noises in your walls or your attic

• Squirrels and their offspring will frequently vocalize to communicate with one another. If you hear chattering or barking sounds inside your attic then they have already made entry and you need to act quickly.

3. Chew or bite marks

• Squirrels sharpen their teething through chewing. If you see signs of chewing on your home, roof or vents then be sure to investigate. Also, you may find chewed-on wires and insulation sheets in your attic. These are signs that a squirrel has been around, and may still be around your property.

If you have all these signs, it is better to take action and call for professional help. DIY rodent control could end up horribly wrong and may result to unfinished removal or at worst cases, accidental rodent bites and wounds caused by improper handling.

Ottawa wildlife control services like Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control can offer you risk-free rodent removal that is proven to be humane and effective for more than twenty-five years. Skedaddle’s Ottawa wildlife control technicians have encountered different situations which resulted in the team learning all tricks in the squirrel book. So you can rest assured that you will free your house from any wildlife infestation in no time.