[caption id="attachment_364" align="alignleft" width="240" caption="Squirrels can become a pest problem when they enter your home."]
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Squirrel problems are mounting; more and more homeowners are complaining of a squirrel problem. It may be sweet to see these critters running along tree branches and electrical lines, but when they start to invade your attic, things start to turn ugly. Many homeowners are reporting these types of squirrel problems, and they generally occur because the animals are looking for a warm, safe place to live. Your attic is the ideal place for them to cozy up and nest for the night.
Squirrel Living Characteristics
When squirrels dwell in their natural habitat, they pose very few squirrel problems for homeowners. The issue arises when squirrels invade your home to seek shelter—a problem that’s becoming more and more common as their natural predators are in shorter supply, yet the population of squirrels continues to grow. Construction and commercial development make their natural habitat harder to find, and as a result, squirrels problems develop indoors—into attics that appear to be dry, warm and easily accessed. In particular, the fall and winter months are common times for homeowners to encounter squirrel problems.
Squirrel Feeding Habits
It may be hard to accept, but you might be the culprit of your squirrel problem. If you have a birdfeeder or other sources of food close to your home, your residence becomes an ideal place for squirrels to live. After all, with a sizable food source right around the corner, why would they go any further than your own backyard (literally)?
It is important to note that squirrels will gnaw their way through just about anything if your home is their end destination. Even if you patch up every hole that could be a potential entryway, they are likely to gnaw their way in anyway. They will chew on ornamental and potted plants; and they will nibble their way through electrical wiring, insulation, wood and even plastics. The bottom line: Eliminating your squirrel problems altogether is not an easy task.
To make matters even worse, if you do have a squirrel problem, most types of bait are ineffective. Why? Because they simply will not eat it. Most homeowners complain of scattering squirrels in the attic during evening hours, when they are very active, and early morning hours as the sun arises.
Squirrel problems can become quite a nuisance. You may also notice foul smells, especially if the squirrel problem has existed in your attic for some time. If you’re experiencing squirrel problems, it is best to call a professional pest exterminator to handle the situation for you.