A Squirrel in the Attic

Squirrels access your attic through the roof in Springfield VA - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor'sThe first sign of a squirrel problem is the sound of scampering overhead, especially early in the morning or at sundown. When you go up into the attic to check it out, you are treated to the distinctive smell that indicates an animal has moved into your home. You catch sight of a bushy tail and realize you have a squirrel in the attic.

Once inside, squirrels can cause a lot of damage to your home with their nesting, hoarding, and chewing habits. Attics provide a warm and safe environment for squirrels to build their nests without fear from predators or the elements. Because of the dangers they can bring in, it’s important to learn how to prevent squirrels in the first place.

What Are the Dangers of a Squirrel Infestation?

While searching for entry points to your attic, squirrels may damage siding, soffits, fascia boards, chimney flashing and even various types of exhaust fans.  pon gaining entry, they will often build nests and therefore create a mess of droppings and urine when they make it their permanent residence. Worst of all, they can chew through wires, creating potential fire hazards.

Squirrels can also harbor pathogens, such as salmonella and rabies, which can be harmful to humans, although transmission is rare. Damage to property is a much more likely outcome of a squirrel infestation. They can destroy furniture and other important household items, especially if they venture out into main living areas.

Squirrel Control For My Home

Squirrel removal is a difficult process to accomplish both humanely and legally. Many states have laws against trapping and relocating squirrels without a permit. It is best to call a professional to remove a squirrel in the attic or any other area of your home.  Trained professionals can humanely and legally relocate unwitting intruders. A professional can also help identify and seal up possible points of entry to prevent future wildlife problems. Here’s how they can help you learn how to prevent squirrels in the attic for good:

  1. The first step is identifying any opening that allows the squirrel access to the attic and sealing these gaps with metal flashing or wire mesh.
  2. Cutting back overhanging tree branches can reduce squirrel’s access to the roof, while chimney caps can keep raccoons and squirrels out of the chimney.
  3. Squirrels may be attracted to the house by bird feeders in the yard. If squirrels are frequenting your bird feeders, try spraying your bird feed with cayenne pepper. Birds have no sense of taste, but as mammals, squirrels do.
  4. Never leave food outdoors, and keep trash cans sealed securely. Resist the temptation to feed squirrels, as this will encourage them to return.

Preventing Squirrels in the Attic

Nuisance wildlife problems, including squirrel infestations, can be distressing for any homeowner. The best option is to work with your local wildlife control experts who can help with exclusion services to keep your family safe. Contact the wildlife control team at Ehrlich today to learn more!

Common Pests in Your Attic

Rodents are common pests in the attic during the winter in Henrico VA - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor'sBefore the cold weather hits, it’s important to know what types of pests may be looking to get inside your home. Especially here in Virginia, overwintering pests are a common pest problem for homeowners this time of year. An overwintering pest is any insect or wild animal that gets into your home for food, warmth, and shelter during the winter months until spring rolls back around. These pests often make themselves at home in your attic and can cause a lot of noise and a big mess. No one wants pests inside their property, making it important to learn how to prevent the common pests in your attic.

What Pest is in My Attic?

If you’re hearing scuttling noises or have noticed a smell coming from your attic, you could have pests overwintering in there. The most common ones we deal with here in Virginia include:

  1. House mice: These mice prefer secluded areas and will look to nest in your attic using insulation and other stored items for shelter.
  2. Roof rats: Just as their name suggests, roof rats can squeeze their way indoors and up to the attic in your home.
  3. Bats: Big brown bats will roost in an attic and use it as their cave. Their presence causes a lot of mess to clean up.
  4. Raccoons: Raccoons are strong climbers and can make their way into your attic to escape dropping temperatures outside.
  5. Squirrels: The attic is the perfect place for squirrels to burrow and hide out the colder months.

How To Keep Pests Out of Your Attic

Pest prevention and wildlife exclusion is the key to keeping pests and wild animals out of your attic this winter. Trim overhanging tree branches, overgrown bushes, and vines away from your home to limit roof access to pests. In addition, secure your chimney with a chimney cap, and install wire mesh over any vents or roof openings. If you keep your garbage cans outdoors, make sure to keep them secure with tight-fitting lids. Lastly, keep everything organized in plastic bins in your attic. Look for gaps or openings and seal them with steel wool or caulk.

Overwintering Pests in Virginia

If you start to hear animals or pests in your attic, it’s important to always enlist the help of a professional pest control company. Getting rid of overwintering pests can be difficult, which is why you should always use a professional. Contact the residential pest control experts at Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s!