Squirrels can enter attic through soffits, fascia, eaves, roof vents, attic fans, siding, and gable vents. Most activity will start when the weather becomes cooler and squirrels are preparing a den to raise their young.
Tree Squirrels can have up to 2 litters per year between January and June. Most litters average 2 to 3, however, there can be many more. If your ready to remove the squirrels, get everything you need before starting. If you are unsure, unwilling, or unable to remove the squirrels from the attic yourself, then hire a Wildlife Control Professional in your area.
Before trapping, you will need to do a damage inspection. Once you know where the squirrels are going in and out of the attic, you can set traps and remove them.
Squirrels can cause damage in the attic and even chew on electrical wires, cable, phone, and any other coated wire. With this said, it is very important to take action as soon as possible to limit the damage. Once you think you have the squirrels out of the attic, you will need to install a soft closure for a few days and then repair the damage once you know that all of the squirrels are out of the attic. It is very important that the soft closure be installed properly and that the damage is fixed with the proper materials.
How do you tell if it's coons or squirrels in the attic? Squirrels will be active from early morning until shortly after dark. They will scamper through the soffits. Coons are active at night and will walk in the attic. Many people have said that it sounds like a person walking in the attic.
If you watch outside near the gutters and roof, you will eventually see a squirrel standing around looking at you. The squirrel is probably near the entrance hole, however, they will not enter the attic with you watching. Smart!
Squirrels have no problem chewing through wood and even metal siding. They can also chew through the screens on attic fans and roof vents. Replacing these useless screens with the proper screens is essential once the squirrels are trapped and out of the attic.
