Are there squirrels in your attic? Squirrels are a protected species in Ontario, so you can’t remove them anyhow. They must be removed humanely. Removing squirrels is also problematic because they are adaptable creatures that can chew their way through anything. A thorough inspection of your roof must be performed, and the right device should be installed to get the squirrels out in the safest way possible. For squirrel removal and pest-proofing, feel free to reach out to Pest Control Guelph anytime.
The greater Toronto area is home to both the eastern grey squirrel and the red squirrel. The grey squirrel is more common; it has a larger body and appears either fully black or grey-brown with a lighter white belly. The red squirrel’s fur is characteristically reddish in colour and its tail is shorter than the grey’s. Both native to North America, these animals are attracted to people’s attics as they offer them with a warm place to nest above ground. They especially like to invade attics during mating season, in either the early spring or late fall.
Squirrels commonly reach attics by crawling through roof vents. These create air circulation as air enters the attic through the soffits, then escapes through the roof vents. Squirrels can unfortunately chew through these vents and get inside the attic. They can also get inside by crawling through the drip edge of the roof as it becomes compromised with time and warps away from the framing of the house. Chimneys are also common entry points for squirrels. Once inside, squirrels usually burrow in the insulation of the attic and build their nests there.
The most humane method of squirrel removal is the one-way door. This device allows squirrels to exit the attic safely, but then prevents them from coming back in. Like many of us, squirrels usually only use one entry point into their home. The one-way door is then installed on this entrance so that they walk right through it. You can purchase a one-way door at your local hardware store and install it yourself. Be sure that the device is open on one end so that the squirrel will be free once it has walked through, and screw it around the entrance to the attic in a way that won’t allow any squirrels to fit around it. You should also avoid installing a one-way door during mating season. This is because you risk separating a mother squirrel from her babies. If this happens, she will become very upset and tear a new hole into the roof to reach her babies.
Professional squirrel removal services are always available to help. Pest Control Guelph offers exceptional, humane squirrel inspection and removal services. We will check every nook and cranny of your roof for any potential entry points and seal them appropriately. During mating season, we ensure that babies are removed safely as well. For safe and effective squirrel control, call Pest Control Guelph (519-900-1180) today and ask us about our warranties.
