The increase in the squirrel population has led to concern for homeowners. Having squirrels visit your home shouldn’t be okay, right?

Instead, you should want to keep squirrels away. They can carry rabies, and their nests in your home can pose a health threat.

Knowing the signs of a squirrel infestation is how you catch the problem before it gets worse. Read on to learn about the signs of squirrels in your home.

1. Noises From the Walls or Ceiling

Scratching or scurrying noises from the walls or ceiling is a definite sign of home infestation. This can be caused due to squirrels entering through your attic or vents.

They commonly search for food, warmth, and even nesting materials. You may also find droppings, nesting materials, and gnaw marks around the entrances they use.

To prevent squirrel infiltration, it is important to seal all entry points, install a one-way door, and keep food sources away from your home.

If you are unsure if the noises are from a squirrel infestation, it is best to contact a local pest control expert. They will be able to educate you about squirrels as well.

2. A Musty Odor

A musty odor is often a tell-tale sign of a squirrel infestation in your home. The pungent smell indicates that the squirrels have likely been living in your home for a while.

It could be the result of urine, which is the most common source of odors related to squirrels. Urine contains an array of proteins and acids that can accumulate over time and lead to a strong, rotting smell.

If a musty odor is present, you should take steps to inspect your attic and other dark spaces to determine if squirrels are present within your home.

3. Droppings or Nests

When squirrels are building nests in your attic, they are likely also leaving droppings behind. Droppings are typically dark in color, have a glossy look, and have a strong odor to them.

It may appear in places near the nest, such as near a window, in a dark corner, or in an uninhabited area. You may also see small piles of shredded insulation or debris, chewed wooden beams or wires, or scratching noises.

4. Chewed Insulation or Wiring

Squirrels have a habit of chewing on various objects in search of food, be it foraging for nuts, or nibbling on the insulation and wiring of your home in pursuit of its mineral content.

It often starts as minor chew marks, but can rapidly accelerate to more serious damage like completely chewed through wires or insulation.

Not only is this a safety hazard due to the exposed wires, but it also increases your energy bills due to the lost insulation.

5. Holes in the Outside Walls of Your Home

Squirrels will chew into outside walls in search of places to nest. They may chew away wood and other materials used to cover up openings.

If you notice evidence of chewing or small holes in the walls of your home or you may find bits of shredded materials or nesting materials in or around holes, it could be a sign of a squirrel infestation. 

Know More About Squirrel Infestation Today

It is important to take immediate action when signs of a squirrel infestation in your home become apparent. Contact an extermination specialist to help prevent a population explosion and find the most effective means of removal.

Don’t let a squirrel infestation take root, take the steps to safeguard your home now!

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