Is there a squirrel in your chimney? Squirrels have adapted very well to modern living. To a squirrel, a chimney is just like a hollow tree. It’s not uncommon for these critters to make a chimney their home. If you suspect a squirrel infestation in your home, feel free to give Pest Control Guelph a call.
The grey squirrel and the red squirrel are the two most common species of squirrel in Ontario. Like the name suggests, the grey squirrel is mostly grey, with a whiter belly. Some grey squirrels are fully black – a rather common phenomenon in the greater Toronto area. Red squirrels are smaller, they are red in colour, and their tails are shorter. These are omnivorous rodents that feed primarily on seeds, nuts, and buds. Squirrels breed in both the early spring and late summer. It is at the start of these seasons when females look for places to nest.
Female squirrels are attracted to chimneys because they mimic hollow trees. As prolific climbers, they have no trouble getting inside them and building nests. Chimneys are warm and relatively safe from things like predators or inclement weather. If there are squirrels in your chimney, you may be able to hear scurrying or scratching sounds emanating from inside. You may also notice increased squirrel activity on your roof or damage to the roof itself.
So, if you think there are squirrels in your chimney, don’t panic, and definitely don’t start any fires. There may be baby squirrels in the nest. Install a one-way door to the top of the chimney to allow the mother squirrel to exit safely. If there are babies inside, put on a thick pair of gloves and remove them carefully. Then, place the babies next to the chimney in a cardboard box. The mother will come get them later. If you think a squirrel fell down the chimney and is stuck, try throwing a rope down the chimney to help it climb out.
The process of removing squirrels from the chimney is much easier said than done. Climbing the roof is dangerous and the squirrel nest may be too deep within the chimney for you to reach. Calling for professional help is the best thing you can do when dealing with squirrels in the house. A wildlife removal technician will have the safety gear required to safely reach the chimney and will have the tools necessary to get the animals out in the most effective way possible. Once the squirrels have left the chimney, he or she will return to remove the one-way door and can, by request, squirrel-proof the home to prevent anything like this from happening again. Squirrels aren’t only attracted to chimneys – they love to invade attics, too.
If you think there are squirrels in your chimney, reach out to Pest Control Guelph. Our crew members are experienced in squirrel removal and can handle any situation. We offer thorough inspections in which we check your roof for any potential entry points or weak spots. We promise to find the squirrels and get rid of them in the best way possible. Our squirrel-proofing is even guaranteed with a two-year warranty. Call Pest Control Guelph (519-900-1180) today and we’ll get started.
