As a homeowner in the Greater Houston Area, you're familiar with the charm and character that our vibrant wildlife brings. But when that wildlife starts making a home inside your home, the situation changes. A squirrel in your attic isn't just an inconvenience; it can lead to significant damage and safety concerns. Knowing the signs is the first step toward a solution. This guide will help you identify if a squirrel has moved into your attic, giving you the information you need to take action and protect your home.

Concerned about a sudden scampering sound? Don't wait. Contact us now or call (713) 257-8421 for a swift inspection.

The Sounds You Can't Ignore

The most common sign of a squirrel invasion is the noise. Unlike mice or rats, squirrels are larger and more active, creating distinct sounds that are hard to miss. These noises are often heard in the morning and evening, as squirrels are most active during the day. If you're hearing these sounds, it's a strong indicator that you have an unwanted guest.

Scampering and Pounding: Squirrels are quick and agile. You might hear them running across the ceiling joists, which can sound like rapid footsteps. These sounds are often concentrated in specific areas where they're nesting or traveling.
Chewing and Gnawing: Squirrels have a constant need to gnaw to keep their teeth from growing too long. You may hear a persistent chewing sound, which could mean they are working on wood beams, electrical wires, or even your insulation. This is a critical sign of potential damage.
Scratching: Before they settle down, squirrels will often scratch at surfaces to create a nesting area. This can be a frantic, rustling noise heard from the ceiling or walls. It's their way of making themselves comfortable.
Rolling Sounds: If a squirrel is building a nest, it might be gathering acorns or other materials. You could hear the sound of these items rolling or dropping, especially if they've found a way to store them within the attic space.

Visual Clues and Physical Evidence

While noises are a major clue, they aren't the only ones. A thorough visual inspection can reveal clear evidence of a squirrel's presence. Taking a look from both the inside and outside of your home can provide a full picture of what's happening. These signs can sometimes be subtle, so it’s important to know what you're looking for.

Outside the Home: Finding the Entry Point

Squirrels are opportunistic and will exploit any weakness in your home's exterior. They can squeeze through small gaps or chew their way through softer materials. Inspecting the outside of your home, especially the roofline and vents, can help you find where they are getting in.

Gaps and Holes: Look for small openings around the roof, fascia boards, and soffits. A hole the size of a quarter is large enough for a squirrel to enter. They often find weak spots where different parts of your roof meet.
Chew Marks: Examine vent covers, especially those made of plastic, and wooden trim for fresh chew marks. Squirrels’ teeth leave distinctive parallel grooves. If you find these marks, it's a strong indication of an attempted or successful entry.
Damaged Vents: Attic and soffit vents are common entry points. A squirrel can easily gnaw through plastic or screen vents to get inside. Check for bent or torn metal mesh and damaged plastic parts.
Trees Overhanging the Roof: A key part of the puzzle is often what's outside your house. Tree branches that hang over or are close to your roof provide squirrels with a perfect bridge to your attic. Trimming these branches can help reduce the chances of a future problem.

Inside the Attic: The Proof is in the Details

If you're brave enough to venture into the attic, a flashlight can help you find more direct evidence. Just be careful and watch where you step to avoid falling through the ceiling. The following signs are nearly definitive proof that you have a squirrel problem.

Droppings: Squirrel droppings are similar in size to small raisins and are often found in clusters. They are typically dark brown or black. The presence of droppings confirms that an animal has been living in the space.
Nesting Material: Squirrels will gather materials like shredded insulation, leaves, twigs, and cardboard to build a nest. Look for these materials piled up in corners or inside boxes. This is where they will raise their young.
Tracks and Pathways: Dust and debris in an attic can show you where a squirrel has been traveling. Look for small, paw-like tracks in dusty areas. You might also see flattened insulation, which indicates a regular pathway.
Damaged Insulation and Wires: Chewing is a squirrel's most damaging habit. You may find chewed wires, which are a serious fire hazard, or shredded and torn insulation. This damage can also compromise your home’s energy efficiency.

What to Do If You've Found a Squirrel

Discovering a squirrel in your attic can be alarming, but it's important to keep a clear head. Do not attempt to trap or handle the squirrel yourself. Squirrels can be aggressive, especially if they feel threatened or are protecting a nest of young. Instead, focus on a safe and effective plan. The first step is to call a professional who understands local wildlife behavior and has the right tools for the job.

A professional will not only remove the squirrel but also identify the entry points and help you with a plan to prevent them from coming back. This often involves repairing damaged areas and making sure your home is properly sealed. This approach addresses both the immediate problem and helps to protect your home for the future.

If you suspect you have a squirrel issue, it’s a good idea to seek help from a team that has a solid understanding of how to handle these situations. Our approach to squirrel control is designed to be thorough, from the initial inspection to the final steps of securing your home. To learn more about our process and how we can help, visit our squirrel control service page.

Protect Your Home from Squirrels in the Greater Houston Area

Taking action as soon as you notice the signs of a squirrel in your attic is crucial for protecting your home. These small animals can cause big problems, from chewed electrical wires that pose a fire risk to significant damage to your insulation and wooden structures. By being observant and knowing what to look for, you are already taking a proactive step.

For a complete solution that addresses your unique situation, you need a team that understands the specific challenges of wildlife in the Greater Houston Area. Greenforce Pest Solutions is ready to help you. Our professionals can safely and humanely remove the pests and help secure your property against future invasions.

Don't let a squirrel take over your attic. Reach out to us through our online contact form or call us at (713) 257-8421 to get started on a solution.