Squirrels are a familiar sight in many neighbourhoods, darting across lawns and scampering up trees. Understanding the most common squirrel species found in suburban areas of Saint Paul can help homeowners recognize these animals and learn more about their habits.
In Minnesota, the most frequent visitors are the Eastern Gray Squirrel, the Fox Squirrel, and the Red Squirrel. Observing squirrel behavior can be fascinating. These lively creatures are known for their agility and intelligence, often seen burying nuts, climbing branches, or leaping from tree to tree.
However, their curiosity sometimes leads them into human homes. Why do squirrels come into houses? They might be searching for food, shelter, or a safe place to raise their young. Understanding more about these squirrels can help residents coexist peacefully with their furry neighbours while ensuring that neither home nor animal is harmed.
This article will guide you through the key characteristics of each species and provide insights into their everyday activities and interactions with humans in St. Paul.
Eastern Gray Squirrels
The Eastern Gray Squirrel is perhaps the most familiar sight in the suburbs. Known for their bushy tails and gray fur, these creatures are highly adaptable and have become quite comfortable living close to humans. One of the reasons why you might notice them around your property is their search for food. These squirrels are constantly on the lookout for nuts, seeds, and fruits, which are often abundant in suburban gardens and bird feeders.
Another interesting aspect of Eastern Gray Squirrel behavior is their nesting habits. They build nests called dreys, usually situated high up in trees. However, if tree cavities are scarce, these squirrels might see your home as an attractive alternative. This is particularly true during the colder months when they seek warmth and shelter. Their ability to squeeze through small openings can lead them into attics or crawl spaces. If you’ve noticed rustling sounds from above, it’s worth checking for potential entry points.
At Skedaddle, we have extensive experience dealing with Eastern Gray Squirrels. Our humane approach ensures that these animals are safely removed without harm. We make sure to seal any entry points to prevent future invasions. This proactive method is essential because once a squirrel finds a cozy spot in your home, it’s likely to return if the entry point isn’t secured.
Fox Squirrels
Fox Squirrels are another species commonly found in Saint Paul. Larger than their gray counterparts, they are identifiable by their reddish fur and robust size. Despite their name, they don’t have much in common with foxes, except perhaps their reddish colour. Fox Squirrels are ground-dwelling creatures, often seen foraging for food on the ground rather than in trees. This makes them more visible in lawns and parks.
These squirrels have a varied diet that includes nuts, fruits, and even fungi. During the fall, you might notice them burying nuts in the ground. This behavior, known as caching, helps them store food for the winter months. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead them to dig up flower beds and gardens, causing frustration for homeowners.
In terms of nesting, Fox Squirrels prefer tree cavities but will also build dreys if necessary. Like the Eastern Gray Squirrel, they can sometimes make their way into homes. Our team at Skedaddle understands the unique behaviors of Fox Squirrels and tailors our removal techniques accordingly. By using exclusion methods, we ensure that these animals are guided out of your home safely and permanently.
American Red Squirrels
The American Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is a familiar sight across Minnesota, thriving in every county of the state. These lively, small rodents are most abundant in coniferous forests but are also well-adapted to mixed and deciduous woodlands.
Smaller than their gray squirrel counterparts, red squirrels measure 11 to 13 inches in body length, with tails spanning 4 to 5 inches. They weigh between 7 and 9 ounces. Their striking appearance features a rusty-red coat, a whitish belly, grayish sides, and tufts of fur on their ears during the winter months.
Known for their energetic and vocal behavior, red squirrels are primarily active during the day, especially in the mornings and late afternoons. Highly territorial, they fiercely defend their domains from intruders. A particularly notable trait of these squirrels is their food storage strategy. Unlike other species that scatter food in small, buried caches, red squirrels accumulate large stockpiles known as middens. These middens, typically located in cool, moist areas, can store enough food to sustain them for one to two seasons. In Minnesota, red squirrels often leave behind towering piles of shredded cones, husks, and hulls—some over a foot high—as evidence of their feeding activity.
With their spirited demeanor and unique behaviors, American Red Squirrels remain a captivating presence in Minnesota’s diverse landscapes.
Why Do Squirrels Come Into Homes?
Understanding why squirrels come into houses can help prevent future invasions. One common reason is the search for food. Gardens, bird feeders, and even pet food left outside can attract these animals. Once they find a reliable food source, they might explore further to find shelter.
Another reason is nesting. Squirrels, particularly during the breeding season, seek safe and warm places to raise their young. Your attic or crawl space can provide the perfect environment for this. Additionally, during colder months, the warmth of your home can be very appealing to squirrels looking to escape the harsh weather.
Lastly, curiosity and opportunity play significant roles. Squirrels are naturally inquisitive creatures. If they find an opening, such as a gap in the roof or a broken vent, they may venture inside out of curiosity. Once inside, they can cause considerable damage, making it essential to address any potential entry points promptly.
How Skedaddle Can Help
At Skedaddle, we specialize in humane wildlife removal and exclusion services. My team and I understand the unique behaviors and needs of different squirrel species, allowing us to tailor our methods to each situation. When you choose Skedaddle, you’re opting for a comprehensive solution that involves safe removal, thorough cleanup, and effective exclusion.
Our process begins with a detailed inspection to identify the type of squirrel and the extent of the infestation. We then use humane methods to guide the squirrels out of your home. Once all animals are safely removed, we proceed to seal entry points and repair any damage caused. This ensures that your home remains squirrel-free in the future.
Additionally, we provide valuable advice on preventing future invasions. This includes tips on securing food sources, maintaining your property, and regularly checking for potential entry points. Our goal is to keep your home safe and squirrel-free while ensuring the well-being of the animals involved.
Effective and Humane Solutions
Understanding the most common squirrel species found in suburban areas of St. Paul can help homeowners take proactive steps to prevent and address invasions. Eastern Gray Squirrels, Fox Squirrels, and Red Squirrels each have unique behaviors and characteristics that can lead them to explore your home. By recognizing these behaviors, you can better protect your property.
If you find yourself dealing with a squirrel invasion, remember that Skedaddle is here to help. Our expert team offers humane and effective wildlife removal services tailored to your specific needs. Don’t wait until the problem escalates – contact Skedaddle today to ensure your home remains a safe and comfortable space for you and your family.