Eastern Gray Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are a common sight in Central Florida, often seen darting through trees or foraging in backyards. While these creatures can be entertaining to watch, they can quickly become a nuisance when they decide to make your home or business their own. This article explores how to identify and deal with an Eastern Gray Squirrel infestation effectively.
Physical Characteristics of Eastern Gray Squirrels
Eastern Gray Squirrels are easily recognizable by their gray fur, which often has a hint of brown, especially on their backs. They have white bellies and large, bushy tails that help them maintain balance and stay warm. An adult squirrel typically measures between 16 to 20 inches in length, including its tail, and weighs about one pound.
Their sharp claws and powerful hind legs make them excellent climbers, which is why they can easily navigate trees and structures. These physical traits, combined with their intelligence and adaptability, make Eastern Gray Squirrels formidable invaders when they decide to nest in your property.
Signs of an Eastern Gray Squirrel Infestation
Detecting an Eastern Gray Squirrel infestation early can save you from significant damage and costly repairs. Here are some common signs that these squirrels have invaded your property:
1. Noises in the Attic or Walls
Scratching, scampering, or chewing sounds in your attic or walls are often the first signs of squirrel activity. Squirrels are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. These noises are most noticeable in the early morning or late afternoon. You’re less likely to hear them at night, unlike nocturnal pests like rats.
2. Chewed Wires and Insulation
Squirrels need to gnaw on objects regularly to keep their teeth from growing too long. Unfortunately, they often choose to chew on electrical wiring and insulation in your home. This behavior can create serious fire hazards and cause significant damage to your home. Inspect your wiring and insulation regularly, especially if you hear noises in your walls or attic.
3. Droppings
Squirrel droppings are small, dark brown pellets, usually around the size of a raisin, that you may notice in various areas of your home. These droppings are often found in attics, along baseboards, or near food sources where squirrels have been foraging. Unlike rat droppings, which are similar in size, squirrel droppings tend to be more rounded at the ends. If you see a cluster of droppings in a specific area, it can indicate a nesting site nearby. The accumulation of droppings can lead to foul odors and attract other pests.
4. Entry Points
Squirrels are excellent at finding and creating entry points into your home. Look for small holes or gaps in your roof, soffits, or siding. These are common areas where squirrels may have chewed their way inside. These entry points are often located near trees or other structures that provide easy access to your roof.
5. Nests
Squirrels build nests, known as dreys, from twigs, leaves, and other materials. You might find these nests in your attic, chimney, or the eaves of your home. Squirrel nests can vary in size but are usually large and messy. Finding a nest inside your home is a strong indication that squirrels have settled in and are likely raising young.
6. Damaged Garden Plants or Bird Feeders
Squirrels are notorious for raiding gardens and bird feeders. They often dig up plants, eat fruits and vegetables, and quickly empty birdseed containers. If you notice plants being disturbed or bird feeders being emptied faster than usual, squirrels could be the culprits. This behavior not only damages your garden but also attracts more wildlife to your property.
If you notice any of these indicators, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent the problem from worsening. By addressing the issue promptly, you can protect your home from further damage and avoid costly repairs.
Why Eastern Gray Squirrels Are a Problem
While Eastern Gray Squirrels are fascinating creatures, they can cause significant problems for homeowners and business owners. Here are some of the key issues they present:
1. Structural Damage
Squirrels are notorious for causing extensive damage by chewing through wood, shingles, and other building materials. This behavior weakens the structural integrity of your home, leading to potential safety hazards. Once inside, they can damage insulation, wiring, and structural components. These issues often result in costly repairs and pose long-term risks to your property.
2. Fire Hazards
Chewed electrical wires are a common issue in homes with squirrel infestations. Squirrels gnaw on wires to keep their teeth from growing too long, but this can strip away insulation. Exposed wires can easily spark, posing a serious fire risk. This danger is heightened if squirrels are nesting near or within electrical systems.
3. Health Risks
Squirrels carry parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, which can transmit diseases to humans and pets. Their droppings and urine can also contaminate living spaces, spreading harmful bacteria and pathogens. Exposure to squirrel waste can lead to respiratory issues and other health concerns if not properly addressed.
4. Noise Disturbance
The constant scurrying, scratching, and gnawing of squirrels in your attic or walls can be extremely disruptive. These noises are particularly bothersome at night when the house is quiet, making it difficult to sleep. The persistent sounds can create stress and anxiety, especially if the infestation is not dealt with quickly.
5. Damage to Gardens and Landscaping
Squirrels are notorious for digging up bulbs, eating fruits and vegetables, and raiding bird feeders. This behavior leads to significant damage to your garden and landscaping efforts. They can also strip bark from trees and shrubs, which can harm or kill the plants. This destruction not only affects the appearance of your property but can also reduce its value.
Addressing these issues quickly is essential to prevent further damage to your home and health. Taking swift action can help protect your property and restore peace of mind.
Preventing Eastern Gray Squirrel Infestations
Preventing an Eastern Gray Squirrel infestation is always better than dealing with one after it has occurred. Here are some effective prevention methods:
1. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home or business for potential entry points, such as gaps in the roof, soffits, vents, or siding. Squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Seal these gaps with durable materials like steel mesh or concrete. This will make it difficult for squirrels to chew through or enter your home.
2. Trim Trees and Vegetation
Squirrels use trees and overhanging branches as highways to access your roof. To limit their access, trim back any branches that are close to your home. Regularly maintain shrubs and vegetation, keeping them well-trimmed. This will reduce hiding spots and make it harder for squirrels to reach your roof.
3. Install Squirrel-Proofing Measures
Consider installing squirrel-proof barriers on your roof, chimney, and vents. These can include metal flashing, mesh screens, and chimney caps. These barriers create a physical obstacle that squirrels cannot easily bypass, preventing them from entering your home through vulnerable points.
4. Secure Garbage Bins
Squirrels are attracted to food sources, including trash. Ensure your garbage bins are securely closed and stored in a location that is hard for squirrels to access. Use heavy-duty lids or fasteners to prevent them from opening the bins. Consider storing bins in a shed or garage if possible.
5. Remove Food Sources
Avoid leaving pet food, birdseed, or other food sources outside that could attract squirrels. Clean up fallen fruits and nuts from your yard regularly. These food sources can attract squirrels and other wildlife, increasing the risk of an infestation. Keeping your yard clean helps deter them from lingering around your property.
6. Regular Inspections
Conduct regular inspections of your attic, roof, and exterior to identify any signs of squirrel activity. Look for new entry points, nests, or other signs of damage. Early detection allows you to address issues before they become significant problems. Regular checks can help maintain the integrity of your property.
Implementing these preventative measures can help keep your property free from squirrels. However, if an infestation does occur, it’s essential to address it promptly to prevent damage. In such cases, seeking professional help ensures the problem is resolved quickly and effectively.
Why Professional Squirrel Removal is Essential
If you suspect that Eastern Gray Squirrels have invaded your property, it’s crucial to take action quickly. While there are DIY methods available for squirrel removal, they often fall short of solving the problem entirely. Here’s why professional squirrel removal is the best option:
1. Expertise and Experience
Professional wildlife removal experts possess the knowledge and experience needed to accurately assess the extent of the infestation. They can identify entry points, locate nests, and develop effective removal strategies. Their experience ensures that squirrels are removed without causing harm to your property. Additionally, they understand the behavior of squirrels, which helps in preventing future infestations.
2. Licensed and Compliant with Regulations
At Wildout Animal and Pest Removal, we are fully licensed and adhere to all local and state wildlife removal regulations. By choosing a licensed service, you can trust the removal process is carried out responsibly, respecting wildlife and the law.
3. Comprehensive Solutions
Professional removal services do more than just eliminate the squirrels; they address the root cause of the infestation. This includes sealing entry points to prevent re-entry, repairing any damage, and offering advice to keep your environment squirrel-free. These comprehensive solutions ensure that the problem is fully resolved and unlikely to recur.
4. Safety
Handling wildlife in confined spaces like attics can be dangerous. Squirrels may become aggressive if they feel threatened. There is also the risk of exposure to diseases or parasites that squirrels might carry. Professional removal services ensure that the process is carried out safely. Professionals use the right tools and techniques to handle the situation without endangering anyone involved.
5. Peace of Mind
Dealing with a squirrel infestation can be stressful and time-consuming, particularly if you try to handle it on your own. Hiring a professional service lets you focus on other priorities while knowing experts are handling the problem.
Choosing professional removal services provides effective handling of squirrels and offers long-term protection against future infestations.
The Wildout Animal and Pest Removal Approach
At Wildout Animal and Pest Removal, we specialize in providing comprehensive wildlife control services. Our approach is designed to make sure your home or business remains free from wildlife intruders. Here are the key steps we follow to provide thorough removal and prevent future wildlife issues:
1. Inspection and Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough inspection of your property. We identify the extent of the infestation and locate all potential entry points. This detailed assessment allows us to create a tailored plan to effectively address your specific squirrel problem.
2. Exclusion and Prevention
After removing the squirrels, we focus on preventing future infestations by sealing entry points and repairing any damage they caused. We also provide you with personalized recommendations for maintaining a squirrel-free environment, ensuring long-term protection for your property.
3. Follow-Up Services
We stand by the quality of our work and offer follow-up services to ensure the squirrels do not return. Our team will conduct additional inspections if needed, and we’ll implement further prevention measures to keep your home or business secure.
Our comprehensive approach ensures your property is protected from squirrel infestations, providing you with peace of mind and a secure home or business.
Q&A: Common Questions About Eastern Gray Squirrels
Q1: Can Eastern Gray Squirrels cause fires in my home?
A1: Yes, one significant risk associated with a squirrel infestation is the potential for fire hazards. Squirrels habitually chew on electrical wires, stripping the insulation and creating a risk of electrical shorts, sparks, and even fires. This is why addressing a squirrel infestation as soon as it’s detected is crucial.
Q2: Are there any natural predators of Eastern Gray Squirrels that help control their population?
A2: In the wild, Eastern Gray Squirrels have several natural predators, including hawks, owls, foxes, and snakes. However, in urban and suburban areas, these predators are less common. This allows squirrel populations to grow unchecked. The lack of natural predators is one reason squirrel infestations can become a significant issue in residential and commercial areas.
Q3: How do squirrels find their way into homes and businesses?
A3: Squirrels are resourceful at finding entry points into buildings. They often use tree branches, power lines, and even walls to reach roofs. Once on the roof, they search for small gaps or weak spots in the structure, like vents or soffits. Squirrels can also chew through wood, siding, or plastic to create an entry point. Because of their small size and strong teeth, squirrels can exploit even the smallest vulnerabilities in a building’s exterior.
Q4: What should I do if I see a baby squirrel on the ground?
A4: If you find a baby squirrel on the ground, it’s essential not to touch or move it immediately. Often, the mother is nearby and may be in the process of relocating her young. However, if the baby squirrel is injured or cold, or if it’s been alone for a long time, it may need assistance. In such cases, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or a professional wildlife removal service like Wildout Animal and Pest Removal for advice.
Q5: Can squirrels damage my home’s insulation?
A5: Yes, squirrels can cause significant damage to a home’s insulation. They often tear up insulation to use as nesting material or simply to create a more comfortable environment. This damage not only reduces the effectiveness of your insulation, leading to higher energy bills, but it also creates fire hazards and provides entry points for other pests.
Q6: How can I tell the difference between a squirrel and a rat infestation?
A6: While both squirrels and rats can invade homes, there are some differences in their behavior and signs of their presence. Squirrels are more likely to be heard during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Rats, on the other hand, are primarily nocturnal. Squirrels tend to chew on larger objects like wooden beams or plastic, whereas rats often gnaw on smaller items like wires or pipes. Additionally, squirrel droppings are larger and more oval-shaped compared to the smaller, pellet-like droppings of rats.
Conclusion
Eastern Gray Squirrels are a familiar part of Central Florida’s wildlife. However, they can become a significant nuisance when they invade your home or business. From structural damage to health risks, the problems they cause can escalate quickly if not addressed.
If you suspect a squirrel infestation, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. Contact Wildout Animal and Pest Removal today to schedule a professional inspection and removal service. Our team of experts is ready to provide prompt, effective solutions to keep your property free of squirrels.
Call us now and let us help you protect your home or business from unwanted wildlife intruders. With Wildout Animal and Pest Removal, you can rest easy knowing that your property is in safe hands.
Contact Us:
Wildout Animal and Pest Removal
Lakeland
863-315-WILD (315-9453)
Orlando
407-465-WILD (465-9453)
Tampa
813-WILDOUT (945-3688)
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