How Do Squirrels Stay Safe in Summer Storms?

When a summer storm rolls through Ontario, the winds can turn fierce, the lightning intense, and the rain torrential. If you’ve observed the trees out in your yard during one of these mighty storms, you may have seen swaying treetops and fallen branches and wonder how it is they remain standing year after year. What about the animals that live outdoors? How do wildlife like squirrels withstand the wind, rain and flying debris? We, humans, are vulnerable to the same natural forces, yet we can retreat to the safety of our homes. Squirrels seek shelter, too, so make sure to check your attic for signs of furry refugees after a storm. If you suspect you have an unwelcome visitor, give Skedaddle a call for humane squirrel removal in Hamilton.

They’re Not Squirreling Around

When it comes to inclement weather, squirrels know what to do. They have physical and behavioural adaptations that protect them when Mother Nature plays rough. Squirrels build nests high up in trees. They’re industrious creatures and construct their nests out of whatever material they can find. They build the basic structure from twigs and then add moss and damp leaves as reinforcement before encasing those in more woven twigs. They may also use string, plastic and other manmade materials. They place their nests where the tree provides extra support, such as in the crook where multiple branches meet or inside a cavity. These shelters are durable, and squirrels can hunker down in them and wait out the storm. When the weather isn’t quite so rough, they may go about their business. They use their fluffy tails as an umbrella, allowing them to continue their usual activities. Their tails can get quite wet while their bodies stay dry. This doesn’t work too well if the rain is hard or lasts for a long time. In those situations, they eventually have to find a dry place to be, or their body temperatures can drop to dangerously low levels. Strong winds alone don’t usually pose too much of a challenge for squirrels. They use their sharp claws to dig into tree trunks or branches and hang on tight. Those claws, along with rodent teeth, can also chew through siding, flashing and wood.

You’ve Got Trouble Overhead

Though squirrels can ride out some pretty rough weather, they aren’t opposed to seeking shelter in a nice, dry attic! Squirrels are rodents, which means that their teeth are made for gnawing on hard materials. They’re also intelligent animals that are adapted to living around humans. They’ve figured out that our structures can provide them with the perfect shelter. Attics are quiet. They are safe from predators and protected from rain and wind. Unfortunately, squirrels can do a lot of damage to your home. When they chew through the roof, wall or around vents, they leave an opening. When it rains, your attic may become wet. Over time, this can lead to further damage from rotting wood. These little rodents do not stop chewing just because they’ve gained entry into a safe, dry spot. They may use your insulation and electrical wiring to build a nest. Rodents have to gnaw on hard materials throughout the day to keep their constantly growing teeth filed down, so they may also damage floors, beams and other structural components. It’s a good idea to regularly check your attic throughout the year but more often during the rainy season. If you notice signs of chewing, leaking or a nest, contact the professionals for squirrel removal in Hamilton.

We’ve Got You Covered

Skedaddle technicians are here to help you with your squirrel troubles. We understand squirrel behaviour and biology, and we’ll safely and humanely evict them from your home. Once they’re back out on squirrel turf, rather than your turf, we’ll seal off all potential points of entry, ensuring they stay out in nature, where they belong. If you have a squirrel in your attic, contact us today to schedule services.