The Nightlife of a Squirrel
Squirrels are not nocturnal; they are crepuscular mammals, meaning they are active during the day, specifically early morning to early evening. In fact, all squirrel species have a sleep pattern similar to humans in that they nest and sleep during the night. Therefore, if you hear rustling or running around during the night, it is most likely a different species. Common nocturnal animals that can find their way into your attic include raccoons, mice, possums, bats, etc. Any of the critters can create strange noises during the night, but a squirrel is unlikely. If those noises occur during the day, a squirrel could be the culprit, especially if you hear scratching sounds, like a nail across the wood. It is common for homeowners to report hearing scurrying or scratching across attic beams during the day. The sounds might be more frequent on sunnier days because squirrels are more active when the sun is out.The Cause of Initial Attic Noise
While squirrels are not nocturnal animals, that does not mean they are never active at night. The animal is more inclined to break into a house at night because it is dark, cool, and quiet. Therefore, it is not uncommon for a homeowner to hear a commotion one evening followed by noises during the day. However, after the initial night, the attic will most likely be quiet on consecutive nights, with further noises only happening in the mornings and afternoons. If you have experienced a noise pattern like this, you should contact a humane wildlife control service in Niagara to assess your property and avoid unnecessary damage.