Introduction
Attic squirrels are more than just a minor nuisance. These agile creatures can cause significant damage to your home, from chewing through insulation to creating fire hazards with gnawed electrical wires.
Understanding why squirrels invade attics, how they survive there, and effective methods to get rid of them is crucial for any homeowner facing this problem.
This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about attic squirrels and the best ways to keep them away for good.
Why Squirrels Pick Attics for Living
Safety and Security
Squirrels prefer attics because they offer a safe and secure environment. Unlike the outdoors, attics are relatively predator-free zones.
This safety allows squirrels to raise their young without constant threats from predators like hawks, owls, and larger mammals.
Warmth and Shelter
Attics provide warmth, especially during the colder months. The insulation in attics creates a cozy environment that protects squirrels from the elements. This warmth is particularly attractive during winter when outdoor temperatures drop significantly.
Nesting Materials
Attics are rich in materials that squirrels can use to build nests. Insulation, cardboard boxes, and other stored items provide the perfect resources for constructing comfortable nests.
Squirrels are known for their resourcefulness, using whatever materials are available to create a suitable habitat.
How Squirrels Manage to Survive in an Attic
Adaptability
Squirrels are highly adaptable creatures. Once they find their way into an attic, they use their sharp teeth to chew through insulation, wood, and other materials to create nests.
They can squeeze through tiny openings, making it easy for them to enter attics through vents, gaps, and damaged roofing.
Food Storage
Squirrels are notorious for their food-hoarding behavior. They collect nuts, seeds, and other food items and store them in various locations within the attic.
This behavior ensures they have enough food to survive, even during harsh weather conditions when food sources are scarce.
Minimal Disturbance
Attics are typically quiet and undisturbed areas of a home. This minimal human activity allows squirrels to live relatively undisturbed, making attics an ideal habitat for these creatures.
They can raise their young and live in peace without frequent interruptions from humans.
When Do Squirrels Usually Invade Attics?
Seasonal Patterns
Squirrels are most likely to invade attics during the colder months of the year. Late fall and winter are prime times for squirrels to seek shelter. They are looking for a warm, safe place to nest and raise their young.
However, squirrels can also invade attics in the spring when they are searching for a secure place to give birth.
Breeding Seasons
Squirrel breeding seasons play a significant role in attic invasions. Squirrels typically breed twice a year, once in late winter and once in late summer. During these times, they are particularly active in seeking out safe nesting sites, which often leads them to attics.
Climate Change and Squirrel Behavior
Warmer Winters
Climate change is affecting squirrel behavior, including their nesting habits. Warmer winters can lead to increased squirrel populations as more young survive the milder conditions.
This increase in population can result in squirrels being active in attics year-round, rather than just seasonally.
Extended Activity Periods
With milder winters and warmer overall temperatures, squirrels remain active for longer periods. This extended activity means that they are more likely to invade attics and other structures as they seek food and shelter throughout the year.
How to Get Rid of Attic Squirrels
Identifying Entry Points
The first step in getting rid of attic squirrels is to identify their entry points. Common entry points include vents, gaps in roofing, and damaged eaves. Once identified, these entry points must be sealed to prevent further access.
Humane Trapping and Release
Humane traps can be used to capture squirrels without harming them. Once captured, it’s essential to release them at least five miles away from your home to prevent them from returning.
However, this method should be used in conjunction with sealing entry points to ensure a long-term solution.
Repellents and Deterrents
Using repellents and deterrents is an effective way to keep squirrels away from your attic. Products like the Attic Squirrel Repeller, Steel Wool, and SquirrelGuard Ultrasonic Car Squirrel Repeller can help create an inhospitable environment for squirrels.
Best Products to Get Rid of Attic Squirrels
Attic Squirrel Repeller
The Attic Squirrel Repeller is one of the best products on the market for deterring squirrels. This device uses ultrasonic sound waves that are inaudible to humans but highly irritating to squirrels, driving them away from your attic.
The ultrasonic frequencies create an uncomfortable environment for squirrels, making it impossible for them to stay.
Steel Wool for Sealing Entry Points
Using Steel Wool is an excellent way to seal off entry points. Squirrels cannot chew through steel wool, making it an effective barrier to prevent them from entering your attic.
Simply stuff the steel wool into any gaps or holes where squirrels might gain entry.
SquirrelGuard Ultrasonic Car Squirrel Repeller
The SquirrelGuard Ultrasonic Car Squirrel Repeller is a versatile repellent that can be used in basements and attics. This device emits ultrasonic frequencies that are intolerable to squirrels, ensuring they stay far away from your property.
Its portability and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for any homeowner dealing with squirrel invasions.
FAQs
Q: How can I get rid of attic squirrels?
A: To get rid of attic squirrels, use ultrasonic repellents, seal entry points with steel wool, and consider installing solar-powered deterrents. Products like the Attic Squirrel Repeller and SquirrelGuard Ultrasonic Car Squirrel Repeller are particularly effective.
Q: What time of year do squirrels invade attics?
A: Squirrels typically invade attics in late fall and winter when they seek warmth and shelter. They may also enter attics in spring to find a secure place to raise their young.
Q: Why do squirrels choose attics?
A: Squirrels choose attics because they offer safety, warmth, and abundant nesting materials. Attics are usually quiet and undisturbed, making them ideal for squirrels to live and raise their young.
Q: Does climate change affect squirrel behavior?
A: Yes, climate change affects squirrel behavior. Warmer winters can lead to increased squirrel populations and more frequent attic invasions throughout the year.
Q: How do ultrasonic squirrel repellents work?
A: Ultrasonic squirrel repellents emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to squirrels. These sounds are inaudible to humans but effectively drive squirrels away from the area.
Q: What is the best way to seal squirrel entry points?
A: The best way to seal squirrel entry points is by using steel wool. Squirrels cannot chew through steel wool, making it an effective material to block their access to your attic.
Conclusion
Dealing with attic squirrels can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can effectively get rid of them and keep them away.
Utilizing products like the Attic Squirrel Repeller, Steel Wool, and SquirrelGuard Ultrasonic Car Squirrel Repeller will ensure your home remains squirrel-free. Remember to combine these methods with regular maintenance and monitoring to prevent future invasions.