Do I Have A Squirrel In My Attic?

The simplest way to tell is by looking and listening for signs. If you hear scratching or scampering above the ceiling, especially during the day, or you notice droppings, chewed wires, or piles of nesting material, there’s a good chance a squirrel has moved in.

Many homeowners ask, “How do I know if there’s a squirrel in my attic?” or “What are the signs of a squirrel in the attic?” The answer comes down to spotting these small but important clues early—before the damage gets worse.

How Do I Know if There’s a Squirrel in My Attic?

If you’ve been wondering whether those noises above your ceiling are squirrels, there are a few telltale signs to watch for. Here’s how you can check:

• Unusual noises. Scratching, scampering, or rolling sounds during the day often point to squirrels rather than nighttime pests like mice or rats.
• Droppings. Small, rounded droppings in corners or along insulation may indicate their presence.
• Nesting materials. Shredded insulation, leaves, or twigs piled together are a common sign of a squirrel nest.
• Chewed entry points. Look for gnawed wood, siding, or roof vents where squirrels may have chewed their way inside.
• Damage inside. Wires, stored items, or insulation that looks torn or frayed could be caused by squirrel activity.
• Sightings. Sometimes, the most obvious clue is seeing a squirrel repeatedly entering or exiting your attic from the roofline.

What Time Are Squirrels Most Active in the Attic?

Squirrels in the attic are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. Unlike nocturnal pests such as rats or mice, squirrels are diurnal, which means they’re awake during the day. You’ll usually hear them at sunrise as they head out to forage for food and again before sunset when they return to their nest. If you notice consistent daytime noise at these times, it’s a strong sign that squirrels—not other critters—are the ones in your attic.

What Does a Squirrel’s Nest Look Like?

A squirrel’s nest in the attic often looks like a messy pile of leaves, twigs, insulation, and other shredded materials. Unlike the neat, round nests birds build, squirrel nests are usually bulky and loosely formed, tucked into corners or hidden in insulation. Inside, you may also find softer materials—like paper, fabric scraps, or moss—that the squirrels bring in to keep their young warm. If you spot one of these clusters in your attic, it’s a clear sign that squirrels have moved in and are likely raising a family there.

Key Takeaways

If you’re trying to figure out whether squirrels are in your attic, pay attention to the signs. Daytime noises, droppings, chewed entry points, and messy nests made of leaves, twigs, and insulation are strong indicators. Squirrels are most active at sunrise and before sunset, so hearing activity during those times often confirms their presence. Spotting a nest or watching squirrels come and go from your roofline is the clearest sign that they’ve moved in.

What Attracts Squirrels to Your Attic?

Squirrels don’t end up in attics by accident. They’re looking for the same things people value in a home—safety, warmth, and easy access. Here are the most common reasons squirrels move in:

• Shelter from the weather. Attics provide protection from rain, wind, and predators, especially in colder months.
• Warmth. Insulation and enclosed spaces make attics an ideal spot to stay cozy through the winter.
• Nesting space. Squirrels seek quiet, hidden areas to raise their young, and attics fit the bill perfectly.
• Easy access points. Overhanging tree branches, gaps in siding, roof vents, or loose shingles give squirrels an open invitation.
• Nearby food sources. Bird feeders, gardens, or unsecured trash can make your property more appealing, encouraging squirrels to stay close by.

Are Squirrels More Likely to Invade Attics in Certain Seasons?

Yes, squirrels are more likely to take up residence in attics during the fall and early winter. As the weather turns colder, these animals search for warm, protected spaces to build nests and stay safe from predators. Spring can also see increased attic activity, as female squirrels look for quiet places to raise their young. While squirrels can enter attics at any time of year, colder months and nesting season are when homeowners are most likely to notice the signs of an unwelcome furry guest.

Key Takeaways

Squirrels are attracted to attics for shelter, warmth, nesting space, easy access, and nearby food sources. They’re most likely to invade during the fall and early winter when the weather turns colder, though spring can also bring activity as females seek safe spots for their young. Understanding what draws squirrels indoors and when they’re most active can help homeowners spot and prevent infestations.

How Do I Get Rid of Squirrels?

If you’ve confirmed that squirrels are in your attic, taking action quickly can prevent further damage. Here are effective steps you can take if you have a squirrel in your attic:

• Seal entry points. Check for gaps in siding, roof vents, chimneys, and loose shingles, and repair them to prevent squirrels from coming back.
• Use one-way exclusion doors. These allow squirrels to exit your attic but not re-enter.
• Trim tree branches. Keep branches away from the roof to reduce easy access to your home.
• Remove food sources. Secure trash cans, take down bird feeders, and store pet food indoors.
• Set up deterrents. Noise devices, motion-activated lights, or safe repellents can make attics less appealing.
• Call a professional. Wildlife removal experts can safely capture and relocate squirrels and advise on long-term prevention.

What Do I Do if a Squirrel Gets in My House?

If a squirrel manages to enter your living space, it’s important to stay calm and act carefully. First, make sure pets and children are safely out of the way. Open doors and windows to give the squirrel a clear escape route, and avoid cornering or trying to touch it—squirrels can bite when scared. Remove any food or water sources that might attract it further.

If the squirrel doesn’t leave on its own or seems injured, contact a professional wildlife removal service. They have the proper equipment and experience to safely capture and remove squirrels without harming them or your home. Taking quick, careful action helps prevent damage and reduces the risk of injury to both you and the animal.

Will Squirrels Eventually Leave Your Attic?

Squirrels won’t necessarily leave your attic on their own, especially if they’ve built a nest or are raising young. While some may move on after a short period, many will stay as long as the space provides warmth, shelter, and easy access to food. Simply waiting for them to leave can lead to property damage from chewing, nesting, and waste. The safest approach is to address the problem promptly—sealing entry points, using exclusion methods, or contacting a professional—to ensure the squirrels are removed and prevented from returning.

Who Should I Call to Get Rid of Squirrels?

If you’re dealing with squirrels in your attic and live in Virginia or West Virginia, the easiest and safest solution is to call the experts at Petti Pest Control. Our team has the experience, tools, and knowledge to safely remove squirrels from your home, repair entry points, and help prevent future infestations. Trying to handle squirrels on your own can be risky and may lead to injury or further damage, so contacting a professional is the best way to protect your home and your family. Contact our team today for professional squirrel removal.

Key Takeaways

If squirrels are in your attic or have entered your home, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage and ensure safety. Effective steps include sealing entry points, using one-way exclusion doors, trimming tree branches, removing food sources, and setting up deterrents. While some squirrels may leave on their own, many stay if the space offers warmth and shelter. For safe and effective removal—especially in Virginia or West Virginia—contact Petti Pest Control, where trained professionals can remove squirrels, repair entry points, and help prevent future infestations.