Squirrels are most likely to invade homes during the fall and winter. They can fit into tight spaces and will chew through wood and soffits to gain entry.
The ideal squirrel habitat includes oak hammocks, oak/hickory ridges, and bottomland hardwoods along rivers and lakes. These habitats offer food, shelter, and dining opportunities.
Squirrels are a Pest
Squirrels are a persistent nuisance. They gnaw on wires, wood, and insulation. They leave droppings that can carry lice, fleas, and ticks.
Homeowners often become aware of squirrel problems when they hear scraping and gnawing noises or see signs of damage to walls, insulation, and wires. They may also discover that their food containers and garbage cans are being emptied more frequently or find fur on their furniture.
In winter, when temperatures drop, squirrels will look for sheltered areas to spend the season. They can find these in garages, attics, and other house parts.
The most accessible approach to keep squirrels out of a house is to cover all openings with plywood, new siding, or galvanized 1/4″ wire mesh. Installing wildlife traps with a qualified specialist in squirrel control Winter Park FL is a good idea if this is not possible. It’s crucial to abide by local regulations while trapping and releasing wildlife.
They Cause Damage
Squirrels are harmless in the wild, but inside a home, they can cause damage and pose health risks. They carry bacteria and diseases in their urine and droppings, which can contaminate the indoor environment and affect the health of people and pets.
In addition, squirrels chew through wires, causing problems such as power outages and fire hazards. They also gnaw through pipes, leading to water leaks and other property damage.
Squirrels are typically not dangerous to humans, but they will defend themselves and their young if they feel threatened. They have been known to bite if provoked and even attack domesticated animals, and they can be as dangerous as any other wild animal. If a squirrel bites you, wash the wound immediately to reduce the risk of infection. If it’s severe, call your doctor.
They Can Be Dangerous
Squirrels are fascinating creatures, and while they can be fun to watch in the wild, they’re not always welcome guests in your home. These tiny rodents carry parasites, diseases, and black fungi that spread from tree to tree. They dig up gardens and flower beds and eat most or all of the seeds you put in your bird feeders.
They’re also quick and can jump from ledge to ledge at great heights to escape predators. They can run up to 20 miles an hour, and their large eyes give them excellent vision and depth perception.
If you’re in the habit of feeding squirrels, they’ll get used to coming around your property. It can make them more comfortable around humans, and they may eventually start residence in your home. When this happens, the best thing to do is call a professional for Winter Park squirrel removal. These animals will chew your wiring and leave droppings throughout your attic and crawl space.
They Can Be Attractive
Homeowners and their property are often subject to significant damage caused by squirrels. They tend to chew on anything they see, including wires that can lead to fires or water damage. They also can make their way into attics and crawl spaces, where they create nests. They may even leave behind fecal matter on the property.
Squirrels are most active in autumn as they prepare for winter and stock up on food. They can be attracted to bird feeders, trash bins, and unsecured fruit trees. They may also sneak inside homes to avoid the cold and find shelter from predators.
Homeowners can help keep squirrels away by adding deciduous trees to the yard. They should also place a dish of fresh, clean water in the yard that is easy for the animals to access. It should be replaced regularly to avoid dirt, vegetation, and feces buildup. They should also avoid loud noises in the yard, such as screaming children and dogs that bark all day.
