Squirrel Eviction Notice: How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Your Attic (and Keep Them Out!)
Finding out you have squirrels in your attic is a homeowner’s nightmare. They’re noisy, destructive, and can pose a significant health hazard. These furry freeloaders can chew through wiring, insulation, and stored belongings, leading to costly repairs. Plus, their droppings can contaminate your attic space with harmful bacteria and diseases. But don’t despair! Getting rid of squirrels in the attic is achievable with a strategic and patient approach. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, from identifying the problem to permanently preventing their return.
Why Squirrels Love Your Attic
Before we dive into the removal process, let’s understand why squirrels find your attic so appealing:
* **Shelter:** Attics provide a safe and dry haven from predators and harsh weather conditions. Squirrels are particularly attracted to attics during the colder months for nesting and raising their young.
* **Warmth:** Insulation in your attic provides a cozy and warm environment, especially during winter.
* **Nesting Material:** They use insulation, cardboard boxes, paper, and other readily available materials to build their nests (dreys).
* **Easy Access:** Overhanging tree branches, vines, gaps in siding, damaged roofing, and unsecured vents offer easy entry points.
Identifying a Squirrel Infestation: Signs You Need to Know
Early detection is crucial for minimizing damage and simplifying the removal process. Here are some telltale signs that you might have squirrels in your attic:
* **Noises:** This is the most common indicator. Listen for scurrying, scratching, gnawing, and thumping sounds, especially during the early morning and late evening hours when squirrels are most active.
* **Droppings:** Squirrel droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped, resembling rice grains. Look for them in corners, along walls, and near entry points.
* **Gnawing:** Squirrels constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp. Check for gnaw marks on wood, wires, pipes, and other materials in your attic.
* **Nests:** Look for nests made of leaves, twigs, insulation, and other soft materials. They’re usually found in secluded areas of the attic.
* **Stains:** Urine stains can be visible on the ceiling or walls below the attic.
* **Odor:** A strong, musky odor can indicate a squirrel infestation, especially if there’s a significant amount of droppings and urine.
* **Damage:** Inspect your roof, siding, and vents for any signs of damage caused by squirrels trying to gain entry.
* **Visual Confirmation:** If you’re lucky (or unlucky!), you might actually spot a squirrel entering or exiting your attic.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Rid of Squirrels in the Attic
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process to effectively evict those unwelcome guests:
**Step 1: Confirmation and Assessment**
* **Confirm the Infestation:** Double-check for the signs mentioned above to ensure you’re dealing with squirrels and not another pest like rats or mice. Correct identification is essential for choosing the appropriate removal methods.
* **Identify Entry Points:** This is arguably the most crucial step. Carefully inspect the exterior of your house, paying close attention to the roofline, vents, soffits, and any areas where pipes or wires enter the building. Look for holes, gaps, or chewed areas. Use binoculars for a better view of higher areas. Mark all identified entry points; you’ll need this information later for sealing them.
* **Determine the Extent of the Infestation:** How many squirrels are you dealing with? Is there evidence of a nest? Are there young squirrels present? This will influence the strategy you choose. A small infestation with no young squirrels is easier to manage than a large, established colony.
* **Consider Professional Help:** If you’re uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, or if the infestation is extensive, consider contacting a professional wildlife removal company. They have the experience and equipment to safely and humanely remove squirrels.
**Step 2: Eviction Techniques: Humane Methods First**
* **The One-Way Door:** This is generally the most effective and humane method. Install a one-way door over the primary entry point. This device allows squirrels to exit but prevents them from re-entering. You can purchase these doors online or at hardware stores. Make sure the door is properly sized and securely attached to the opening. Monitor the door for several days to ensure the squirrels are exiting and not finding another way in. After a few days of inactivity, you can proceed to the next step.
* **Eviction Fluid (Male Squirrel Urine):** While it may sound unpleasant, male squirrel urine can deter female squirrels with young. Purchase eviction fluid from a wildlife control supplier and apply it near the nest. This simulates the presence of a male squirrel, which can cause the mother squirrel to relocate her young to a safer location. Use this method with caution, as it’s not always effective and can sometimes stress the squirrels.
* **Bright Lights and Loud Noises:** Squirrels prefer dark and quiet environments. Place bright lights (work lights are ideal) and a radio playing loud music (talk radio works well) in the attic near the nest. This can make the attic less appealing and encourage the squirrels to leave. This method is most effective when combined with other eviction techniques.
* **Professional Trapping (Last Resort):** If other methods fail, trapping may be necessary. Live traps can be purchased or rented from hardware stores or wildlife control companies. Bait the traps with peanut butter, nuts, or seeds. Place the traps near entry points or in areas where you’ve seen squirrel activity. Check the traps regularly (at least twice a day) and release any captured squirrels a safe distance away from your property (at least 5 miles) in a suitable habitat. **Important:** Check your local laws regarding trapping and relocation of wildlife. Some areas require permits or prohibit relocation.
**Important Considerations During Eviction:**
* **Check for Young Squirrels:** This is absolutely critical, especially during spring and summer. If you suspect there are baby squirrels in the nest, **do not seal the entry point.** You’ll trap them inside, leading to their starvation and creating a horrific odor problem. Instead, try eviction fluids or bright lights and loud noises for a few days to encourage the mother to move her young. If all else fails, contact a professional wildlife removal company to handle the situation.
* **Humane Treatment:** Always prioritize humane methods of squirrel removal. Avoid using poisons or inhumane traps, as these can cause unnecessary suffering and are often ineffective in the long run.
* **Patience:** Squirrel removal can take time and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if your initial efforts aren’t successful. Keep trying different techniques and be patient.
**Step 3: Sealing Entry Points: Preventing Re-Infestation**
Once you’re confident that the squirrels are gone, it’s time to seal all entry points to prevent them from returning. This is the most important step in long-term squirrel control.
* **Materials:** Use durable, weather-resistant materials such as:
* **Hardware Cloth (Wire Mesh):** This is the best option for sealing large openings and vents. It’s strong, durable, and prevents squirrels from chewing through it. Choose a mesh size of ¼ inch or smaller.
* **Sheet Metal:** Use sheet metal to cover larger holes or damaged areas.
* **Caulk:** Use high-quality, exterior-grade caulk to seal small cracks and crevices.
* **Expanding Foam:** Use expanding foam to fill larger gaps, but be aware that squirrels can sometimes chew through it. Use it in conjunction with hardware cloth.
* **Roofing Cement:** Use roofing cement to repair damaged roofing shingles or tiles.
* **Techniques:**
* **Roof Repairs:** Repair any damaged roofing shingles or tiles. Seal any cracks or gaps in the roof.
* **Vent Covers:** Install heavy-duty vent covers made of metal mesh over all attic vents. Ensure the covers are securely attached and that the mesh is in good condition.
* **Soffit Repairs:** Repair any damage to the soffits (the underside of the eaves). Seal any gaps or cracks where squirrels could enter.
* **Pipe and Wire Entry Points:** Seal around pipes and wires where they enter the house using caulk or expanding foam. Cover larger gaps with hardware cloth.
* **Tree Trimming:** Trim tree branches that overhang your roof. Squirrels can use these branches to access your attic. Maintain a distance of at least 8-10 feet between branches and your roof.
* **Gutter Cleaning:** Keep your gutters clean and free of debris. Clogged gutters can create damp areas that attract squirrels.
* **Thoroughness:** Be meticulous in your sealing efforts. Even a small gap can be enough for a squirrel to squeeze through. Inspect the entire perimeter of your house and seal any potential entry points, no matter how small they may seem.
**Step 4: Attic Cleanup: Removing the Mess and Preventing Disease**
After the squirrels are gone and the entry points are sealed, it’s time to clean up the attic. This is essential for removing potential health hazards and preventing future infestations.
* **Safety Precautions:** Before entering the attic, take the following safety precautions:
* **Wear protective clothing:** Wear a disposable suit, gloves, and a respirator mask to protect yourself from dust, droppings, and other contaminants.
* **Ventilate the attic:** Open windows and doors to ventilate the attic before and during the cleanup process.
* **Wet down droppings:** Before sweeping or vacuuming, lightly spray the droppings with water to prevent dust from becoming airborne.
* **Cleanup Process:**
* **Remove nests and debris:** Carefully remove any nests, droppings, and other debris from the attic. Place the materials in sealed plastic bags and dispose of them properly.
* **Vacuum the attic:** Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to thoroughly vacuum the entire attic, including floors, walls, and ceilings.
* **Disinfect the attic:** Disinfect the attic with a disinfectant solution to kill any remaining bacteria or viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
* **Replace damaged insulation:** If the insulation is damaged or contaminated with droppings, replace it with new insulation.
* **Deodorize the attic:** Use an enzymatic cleaner to neutralize any lingering odors. These cleaners break down the organic compounds that cause odors.
**Step 5: Preventative Measures: Keeping Squirrels Away for Good**
Once you’ve gotten rid of the squirrels and cleaned up the attic, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from returning. Here are some preventative measures you can take:
* **Regular Inspections:** Regularly inspect your roof, siding, and vents for any signs of damage or potential entry points. Repair any damage promptly.
* **Maintain Your Yard:** Keep your yard clean and free of debris. Remove fallen fruit, nuts, and seeds that could attract squirrels.
* **Secure Trash Cans:** Keep your trash cans tightly sealed to prevent squirrels from accessing food scraps.
* **Bird Feeders:** If you have bird feeders, consider using squirrel-resistant feeders or placing them in locations that are difficult for squirrels to reach.
* **Professional Maintenance:** Consider hiring a professional pest control company to provide regular inspections and preventative treatments.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY squirrel removal is possible, there are situations where calling a professional wildlife removal company is the best option:
* **Large Infestation:** If you have a large or well-established infestation.
* **Difficult Access:** If the attic is difficult to access or has limited headroom.
* **Young Squirrels:** If you suspect there are baby squirrels present.
* **Health Concerns:** If you have health concerns or are uncomfortable handling wildlife.
* **Unsuccessful DIY Attempts:** If your DIY efforts have been unsuccessful.
* **Peace of Mind:** For peace of mind and the assurance that the job will be done correctly and humanely.
Choosing a Wildlife Removal Company
If you decide to hire a wildlife removal company, be sure to choose a reputable and experienced one. Look for a company that:
* **Is licensed and insured.**
* **Has a good reputation and positive reviews.**
* **Uses humane removal methods.**
* **Provides a warranty for their services.**
* **Offers attic cleanup and repair services.**
Legal Considerations
Before attempting any squirrel removal, be aware of your local laws and regulations regarding wildlife. Some areas require permits for trapping or relocating wildlife. It’s also important to use humane removal methods to avoid causing unnecessary suffering to the animals.
Conclusion
Getting rid of squirrels in the attic requires a strategic and patient approach. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively evict these unwanted guests, prevent their return, and protect your home from damage. Remember to prioritize humane methods and consider professional help if you’re uncomfortable handling the situation yourself. With a little effort and persistence, you can reclaim your attic and enjoy a squirrel-free home.