If you answered ‘yes’ to this question, you aren’t alone. Thousands of homeowners struggle to deal with squirrel infestations in the attic. And just like rats and mice, allowing squirrels to live rent-free in your attic leaves you and your family vulnerable to illness. Squirrel urine and feces may carry some pretty nasty diseases, which is why it’s important to keep these furry little critters in the yard and out of your house.
Of course, the possibility of transmittable diseases isn’t the only threat created by a squirrel infestation in the attic. With their large chompers, squirrels are able to chew their way through just about anything, including electrical wire. Allowing squirrels to roam free in your attic may result in a house fire from chewed up electrical wiring. Infestations are a serious fire hazard that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Squirrels may also bring other ‘unwanted’ pests into your home, including ticks, fleas and mites. Some of these parasitic pests may work their way down from the attic and into your home, where they look for a fresh host to draw blood.
How To Identify a Squirrel Infestation In The Attic
Identifying a squirrel infestation in the attic is pretty easy. Squirrels — unlike rats and mice — are active during the daytime, so you’ll probably hear them scampering and scurrying in the attic throughout the day. Their size and strength makes them a bit louder than your traditional field mice. Typically, they’ll scamper through the attic in pairs or small groups while searching for food. Once they’ve located food, they’ll either go back outside or build a nest where they can reproduce without the threat of predators.
Of course, the easiest way to identify a squirrel infestation is to go up in the attic and take a peep for yourself. Look for actual squirrels along with signs that a squirrel has been there. Signs of a squirrel infestation include gnawed lumber or support beams, large droppings and fur.
Why Conventional Traps Don’t Work
Some homeowners assume that setting up a dozen or more traps in the attic will solve their squirrel problem. While it may initially knock out some of the squirrels, it’s not going to prevent more from entering your attic. In order to keep them out, homeowners must identify the squirrels’ entry point and close it off. Only then can you, and your family, rest assured knowing that you are safe and protected from the dangers of squirrels.
