Most people find squirrels to be entertaining. The animals scurry around neighbourhoods barking at each other from branches and, for the most part, seem inconsequential. Still, when squirrels become too familiar with a house and its property, problems can arise, including those problems requiring squirrel removal in Ottawa. One such issue is when squirrels get inside a home and nest in the walls. Discover the warning signs of squirrels and when a call to professional wildlife control services is necessary.

5 Signs You Need Squirrel Removal in Ottawa

When squirrels invade your home or property, they can quickly become a nuisance. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of a squirrel infestation and when you need squirrel removal services. From strange noises in your walls to chewed wires and insulation, there are several indicators that these furry critters are making themselves at home in your space. 

1. Unusual Sounds

The first thing homeowners will likely notice when they have a squirrel infestation is unusual sounds. Squirrels in an attic can make their way into wall cavities and other areas of the home. The sounds often accompanying squirrel infestations include scurrying, scratching, and gnawing.

As a homeowner, you are more likely to hear these sounds in the mornings and early evenings. Squirrels have a similar sleep pattern to humans, so they are likely dormant at night.

To protect your property and prevent infestations, keeping wildlife away by limiting food sources and maintaining a clean lawn is best. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control can assess your property and offer suggestions to limit infestation risks.

2. Holes in Walls or Attic Spaces

Squirrels leave evidence of their entry into houses. Homeowners can find holes in walls or attic spaces. Also, they may notice evidence of gnawing. Like most rodent species, squirrels have to chew on things to keep their teeth controlled.

Holes may appear in siding, around attic vents, or near vulnerable spaces. Not all squirrel holes are obvious; some are well hidden, which is why professionals are homeowners’ best friends. Professionals familiar with squirrel behaviour have an easier time finding holes and entry points.

3. Odd Smells

Odd smells emanating from walls are a sure sign that you have a wildlife infestation and require the services of squirrel removal in Ottawa. Most odours stem from repetitive urinating in the cavity and carry a strong ammonia aroma. Another possible stench occurs when an animal dies inside the wall cavity; the smell will go through the house, but it will be most intense around the affected wall.

4. Droppings or Nesting Materials Found Around the Home

It is common to find physical evidence of squirrels nesting inside a home just outside of it. For example, if an access hole is on the roof near a dormer, you might find squirrel droppings or evidence of nesting materials, such as leaves and twigs.

5. Squirrel Sightings in Your Yard or on Your Roof

While squirrel sightings are common in most neighbourhoods, you should watch for any squirrels becoming too familiar with your yard. If you notice the same one or two squirrels in your yard and up on your roof, there is a chance they are nesting inside your attic. While learning how to get rid of squirrels or prevent them is fine when the animals have yet to enter your property, it is best to hire a professional removal service once they have.

Hire Squirrel Removal in Ottawa

Squirrels are determined and resilient creatures. If your house represents shelter and your property offers an adequate food source, the animal will try to make your property its home. Most likely, when a squirrel is in a home, it comes inside through a vulnerability in the attic. Homeowners may not realize they have squirrels until they hear odd noises, smell unusual aromas, or spot visual evidence, such as droppings. For squirrel intrusions and infestations, homeowners must call squirrel removal in Ottawa. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to schedule a property assessment and learn more.