What are Squirrels?

Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents commonly found in both urban and rural environments. While they are often seen as harmless wildlife, they can quickly become a serious pest when they invade homes or businesses. The most common nuisance species in North America include gray squirrels, red squirrels, and flying squirrels. They are known for their sharp teeth and chewing habits, which they use to access attics, soffits, and walls in search of food and nesting sites. Once indoors, squirrels can cause structural damage and create noise disturbances, especially during the early morning and evening hours.

Signs of Squirrel Infestation

You may have a squirrel problem if you notice:

• Scratching, running, or chewing noises in attics, ceilings, or walls
• Visible entry holes in soffits, rooflines, or siding
• Droppings or urine stains in attics or crawl spaces
• Chewed wires, insulation, or wood inside the home
• Nests made of leaves, twigs, or shredded insulation indoors
• Increased squirrel activity around the roof or nearby trees

Why They are a Problem

Squirrels may look harmless, but inside a home or business they can cause costly damage. Their constant chewing can fray electrical wires, creating fire hazards. They also damage insulation, wood, and siding while building nests. Squirrel droppings and urine can contaminate attics and create unpleasant odors. In addition to property damage, squirrels can carry fleas, ticks, and parasites that pose health risks to humans and pets. Their daytime activity can also cause significant noise disturbances for homeowners.

Where Do They Come From?

Squirrels are excellent climbers and use nearby trees, utility lines, and fences to reach rooftops. They often enter buildings through:

• Gaps in soffits, eaves, and roof vents
• Loose shingles or damaged siding
• Chimneys without proper caps
• Open garage doors or attic vents
• Overhanging tree branches touching the roof

They are attracted to sheltered nesting sites and easy access to food sources such as bird feeders, gardens, and unsecured garbage.

How to Get Rid of Squirrels at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of squirrels, here are some effective prevention and control steps:

• Trim tree branches at least 8 to 10 feet away from the roof to reduce access points
• Seal holes and gaps in soffits, eaves, chimneys, and rooflines with durable materials
• Install chimney caps and vent covers to block entry
• Remove outdoor food sources such as unsecured bird feeders or pet food
• Place motion-activated lights or noise deterrents in areas of high squirrel activity
• Use live traps cautiously, following local wildlife regulations

These measures may provide temporary relief, but long-term control usually requires professional removal and exclusion.

Squirrels vs Rats

Squirrels are sometimes confused with rats when homeowners hear noises in the attic, but there are differences:

• Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are primarily nocturnal
• Squirrel droppings are larger and more rounded, while rat droppings are smaller and pointed
• Squirrels often enter through rooflines, while rats tend to burrow or use ground-level entry points
• The sounds squirrels make are typically louder, with more running and scratching in daylight hours

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we specialize in safe and humane squirrel removal. Our team identifies entry points, removes squirrels from your property, and seals off access to prevent them from returning. We also repair damage caused by squirrels and provide customized prevention strategies to protect your home or business long-term. With our professional services, you can stop the noise, prevent further damage, and restore peace of mi