7 Effective Ways to Banish Squirrels from Your Attic

Image of a squirrel in an attic

Squirrels in the attic can be a major nuisance, causing damage to your home and keeping you up at night with their noisy antics. If you’re dealing with this problem, don’t despair! There are a number of effective ways to get rid of squirrels in your attic, and most of them are relatively easy to do. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in evicting these unwanted guests from your home, so you can reclaim your peace and quiet.

First, you need to identify the entry points that the squirrels are using to get into your attic. Once you’ve found the entry points, you can seal them up to prevent the squirrels from getting back in. There are a number of different ways to seal up entry points, including using caulk, expanding foam, or hardware cloth. Once you’ve sealed up the entry points, you can start to remove the squirrels from your attic. There are a number of different ways to do this, including using live traps, havahart traps, or exclusion devices.

Once you’ve removed the squirrels from your attic, you need to take steps to prevent them from coming back. This includes cleaning up any food sources that may be attracting them, such as bird seed or pet food. You should also trim back any tree branches that may be providing them with access to your roof. By taking these steps, you can help to keep your attic squirrel-free for good.

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Identifying Entry Points

Squirrels are agile climbers and excellent jumpers, making them capable of reaching even high-up entry points in your attic. To effectively eradicate them, it’s crucial to meticulously inspect the exterior of your home for any potential access points. A thorough examination of the following areas is essential:

Roof: Pay close attention to the roofline, particularly around chimneys, vents, soffits, and fascia boards. Look for any cracks, holes, or gaps where squirrels may squeeze through.
Walls: Inspect the exterior walls for any openings or gaps, including areas around windows, doors, pipes, and vents. Check for loose bricks or siding that squirrels could exploit.
Trees: Trim tree branches that are in close proximity to your house, as squirrels can use them as a bridge to reach your roof or attic. Seal any holes or cavities in trees near your home.

Use binoculars or a ladder to inspect hard-to-reach areas and take close-up photos of potential entry points. Create a detailed list of all identified entry points, as this information will be invaluable when it comes to sealing them off and preventing future squirrel infestations.

Inspecting the Roof

The roof is one of the most common entry points for squirrels, so it deserves special attention during your inspection. Here’s a closer look at what to look for:

Area	Potential Entry Points
Chimneys	Gaps between flashing and bricks, missing or damaged caps
Vents	Loose or missing vent covers, damaged screens
Soffits	Cracks or holes in the soffit panels, gaps between soffits and walls
Fascia Boards	Rotted or damaged fascia boards, loose or missing trim

Exclusion Techniques

Exclusion techniques involve preventing squirrels from entering the attic in the first place. This can be achieved by sealing up any holes or cracks that they may be using to get in.

1. Inspect the exterior of your home

To find any potential entry points for squirrels, walk around the exterior of your home and inspect it closely. Look for any holes or cracks in the walls, roof, or foundation. Also, check for any loose or missing shingles or siding, as these can provide squirrels with an easy way to get into the attic.

2. Seal up any holes or cracks

Once you have identified any potential entry points, it is important to seal them up as soon as possible. You can do this by using a variety of materials, such as caulk, expanding foam, or hardware cloth. When sealing up holes, it is important to make sure that they are completely filled and that there are no gaps or cracks that squirrels could fit through.

Here are some specific areas to focus on when sealing up holes or cracks:

Area	Potential Entry Points
Roof	Holes in the roof, damaged shingles, missing flashing
Walls	Cracks in the walls, holes around pipes or wires, loose siding
Foundation	Cracks in the foundation, holes around pipes or wires, gaps under doors or windows
Chimney	Holes in the chimney, missing or damaged chimney cap
Vents	Uncovered or damaged vents, gaps around vents

Trapping and Release

Trapping and releasing squirrels is a humane and effective method of removing them from your attic. However, it’s important to follow the proper procedures to ensure the safety of both the squirrel and yourself. Here’s a detailed guide to trapping and releasing squirrels:

1. Choose the Right Trap

Select a live cage trap that is large enough for the squirrel to move around comfortably. Wire mesh traps are commonly used, but make sure the spacing between the bars is not too wide or narrow. A trap with a trigger plate is preferable as it’s easier to set and less likely to injure the squirrel.

2. Bait the Trap

Place a small amount of bait inside the trap, such as nuts, seeds, or fruits. Avoid using strong-smelling foods that may alert the squirrel. For best results, use something that the squirrels have been feeding on in your yard.

3. Set the Trap

Follow these steps to set the trap properly:

Place the trap in an area where you’ve observed squirrel activity, such as near a hole in the attic or along a tree line.
Open the trap door and secure it with a prop or latch.
Place the bait in the center of the trap, ensuring it’s far enough away from the door to prevent the squirrel from reaching it without triggering the plate.
Cover the trap with a cloth or blanket to create a dark and inviting space for the squirrel.

4. Release the Squirrel

Once you’ve captured a squirrel, release it as soon as possible in a suitable location away from your property. Check your local wildlife laws for specific regulations regarding squirrel relocation.

State	Release Distance
California	At least 2 miles
Florida	At least 5 miles
Texas	At least 10 miles

Baffling and Deterrence

Baffling

Baffling is a method to prevent squirrels from entering the attic by installing barriers or obstacles that make it difficult or impossible to reach. This includes sealing holes and gaps, trimming tree branches, and installing one-way doors or excluders. Here are some important steps to remember when baffling:

Identify all possible entry points. Check for holes, gaps, crevices, and any other openings that squirrels could use to enter the attic.
Choose the appropriate materials for sealing the entry points. This could be hardware cloth, metal flashing, expanding foam, or other materials that squirrels cannot chew through or remove.
Install the barriers securely. Make sure that all holes and gaps are completely sealed and that the materials are securely fastened to prevent squirrels from removing them.

Deterrence

Deterrence is another effective way to keep squirrels out of the attic by making it an unpleasant or unwelcome place for them. This can be achieved through various methods, including:

Clean Up: Remove any food sources that might attract squirrels, such as bird feeders or pet food left outside. Keep your attic clean and free of clutter.
Bright Lights: Leave bright lights on in the attic or use motion-activated lights to deter squirrels from entering.
Noisy sounds: Play loud music or use ultrasonic squirrel repellents to create an unpleasant environment for squirrels.

Repellents

Repellents are substances or devices that are designed to repel squirrels and discourage them from entering an area. These can be natural or chemical-based, and their effectiveness can vary. Here’s a table summarizing some common squirrel repellents and their general composition:

Type	Composition
Natural	Peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, garlic
Chemical	Capsaicin, methyl salicylate, ammonia
Electronic	Ultrasonic waves, strobe lights

Repellents and Deterrents

Repellents and deterrents can be an effective way to keep squirrels out of your attic. There are a variety of options available, including:

Mothballs

Mothballs are a commonly used repellent for squirrels. They can be placed in open containers in the attic or hung from the rafters. The strong odor of mothballs will deter squirrels from entering the space.

Ammonia

Ammonia is another effective repellent for squirrels. It can be placed in shallow dishes or soaked into cotton balls and placed in the attic. The pungent odor of ammonia will deter squirrels from entering the space.

Citrus

Squirrels dislike the smell of citrus fruits. You can place orange or lemon peels in the attic or spray citrus-scented oil around the entrances to the attic.

Peppermint

Peppermint is another natural repellent for squirrels. You can place peppermint oil on cotton balls and place them in the attic or spray peppermint-scented oil around the entrances to the attic.

Exclusion

Exclusion is the most effective way to keep squirrels out of your attic. This involves sealing up all of the possible entry points into the attic. You can do this by:

Entry Point	Exclusion Method
Holes in the roof	Patch holes with roofing cement or metal flashing
Openings around vents	Install vent screens
Gaps around pipes and wires	Caulk or foam gaps
Chimney	Install a chimney cap

Predators and Noise

Predators

Squirrels are prey to a variety of predators, including hawks, owls, snakes, and cats. Introducing these predators into the attic can be an effective way to deter squirrels from returning. However, it’s important to proceed with caution when using this method, as it can also pose a risk to other animals and humans.

Noise

Squirrels are startled by loud noises, such as banging on walls or playing loud music. Making sudden and unpredictable noises can help keep squirrels out of the attic. However, it’s important to avoid using this method excessively, as it can also disturb other occupants of the house.

Additional Noise Deterrents

In addition to loud noises, there are a number of other things you can do to create an unpleasant environment for squirrels in the attic:

Deterrent	Description
Mothballs	The strong smell of mothballs is highly repellent to squirrels. Place mothballs in breathable containers around the edges of the attic to create a protective barrier.
Ammonia-soaked rags	Squirrels dislike the pungent odor of ammonia. Soak rags in ammonia and place them in open containers throughout the attic.
Citrus peels	The zesty scent of citrus fruits is another effective squirrel deterrent. Spread orange or lemon peels around the attic or place them in mesh bags and hang them from the rafters.
White vinegar	The acidic smell of white vinegar is off-putting to squirrels. Pour vinegar into small bowls and strategically place them around the attic.
Cayenne pepper	Squirrels avoid spicy substances. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around areas where squirrels are likely to enter the attic, such as entry points, holes, and cracks.

Attic Cleaning and Disinfection

Once the squirrels have been removed, it is important to clean and disinfect the attic to remove any remaining traces of their presence. This will help to prevent the spread of disease and keep your home safe and sanitary.

1. Remove All Debris

The first step is to remove all of the debris from the attic, including squirrel droppings, nesting materials, and any other debris that may have accumulated. It is important to wear a mask and gloves when doing this to avoid inhaling dust or coming into contact with any parasites.

2. Vacuum the Attic

Once the debris has been removed, vacuum the attic thoroughly to remove any remaining dust or particles. Be sure to vacuum all of the nooks and crannies, as squirrels can often hide in small spaces.

3. Wash Walls and Surfaces

Next, wash all of the walls and surfaces in the attic with a strong disinfectant. This will help to kill any remaining bacteria or parasites. Be sure to rinse the surfaces thoroughly with clean water after washing them.

4. Replace Insulation

If the insulation in your attic has been damaged by squirrels, it will need to be replaced. This is important to prevent heat loss and keep your home comfortable.

5. Seal Entry Points

Once the attic has been cleaned and disinfected, it is important to seal any entry points that squirrels may have used to get into your home. This will help to prevent them from re-entering your home in the future.

6. Install a Squirrel Baffle

A squirrel baffle is a device that can be installed on the outside of your home to prevent squirrels from climbing up and entering your attic. Baffles are available in a variety of styles, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for your home.

7. Remove Squirrel Droppings Safely

Squirrel droppings can contain harmful bacteria and parasites, so it is important to remove them safely. To do this, wear gloves and a mask, and place the droppings in a sealed bag. Dispose of the bag in the trash.

Potential Health Risks Associated with Squirrel Droppings	How to Protect Yourself
Histoplasmosis	Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning up droppings, and dispose of them in a sealed bag.
Cryptococcosis	Keep your home clean and free of dust, and avoid contact with droppings.
Salmonella	Wash your hands thoroughly after handling droppings, and avoid eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
E. coli	The same precautions as for Salmonella.

Long-Term Prevention

Once you’ve gotten rid of squirrels, it’s essential to take steps to prevent them from returning. Here are some long-term prevention measures you can implement:

1. Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for any potential entry points where squirrels could get into the attic. Seal any holes, cracks, or gaps with caulk, expanding foam, or wire mesh.

2. Trim Tree Branches

Trim any tree branches that are close to your roof. This will make it harder for squirrels to access your attic from the trees.

3. Remove Food Sources

Remove any potential food sources that could attract squirrels, such as bird feeders, pet food, or compost piles.

4. Clean Up

Keep your yard clean of debris, such as fallen fruit, nuts, and acorns. This will discourage squirrels from hanging around your property.

5. Use Repellents

There are various squirrel repellents available, such as ultrasonic devices, chemical repellents, and natural deterrents like peppermint oil or cayenne pepper. Use these repellents around your home’s exterior to deter squirrels.

6. Get a Cat

Cats are natural predators of squirrels, and having one around can deter them from approaching your home.

7. Install a Squirrel-Proof Fence

Install a physical barrier around your property to prevent squirrels from entering. A squirrel-proof fence should be at least 6 feet tall with an overhang to prevent squirrels from climbing over.

8. Repeat Inspection and Maintenance

Regularly inspect your home for any new entry points or damage that could allow squirrels to access your attic. Repair any issues promptly to maintain the integrity of your squirrel-proofing measures.

Long-Term Prevention Measures
Seal Entry Points
Trim Tree Branches
Remove Food Sources
Clean Up
Use Repellents
Get a Cat
Install a Squirrel-Proof Fence
Repeat Inspection and Maintenance

Humane and Responsible Removal

Squirrels, like other wildlife, should be treated with respect and caution, and their removal should be carried out responsibly and humanely. Here are some things to consider when attempting to remove squirrels from your attic:

1. Identify the entry points: Inspect your attic and exterior walls thoroughly to identify any potential entry points where squirrels may be entering and seal them with weatherstripping, caulk, or metal flashing.

2. Make the attic less appealing: Remove any food sources, such as bird feeders, pet food, or trash, that may be attracting squirrels to your attic.

3. Use humane traps: Live traps are the most humane way to capture squirrels for relocation or release. Place the traps near entry points and bait them with nuts or fruit.

4. Relocate squirrels responsibly: Release captured squirrels at least 5 miles away from your property in a suitable habitat, such as a wooded area or park, to prevent them from returning.

5. Exclusion devices: Use devices like chimney caps, vent covers, or gutter guards to prevent squirrels from entering or re-entering your attic.

6. Squirrel-proof bird feeders: Use feeders that are designed to prevent squirrels from accessing birdseed.

7. Trim tree branches: Keep tree branches trimmed back from your roofline to eliminate potential access points for squirrels.

8. Install motion-activated sprinklers: Motion-activated sprinklers can deter squirrels from approaching your home.

9. Ultrasonic devices: While the effectiveness of ultrasonic devices is debated, some have reported success in deterring squirrels. However, these devices may not be safe for pets or young children, and their long-term effects on squirrels are unknown.

Legal Considerations

Before taking any action to remove squirrels from your attic, it is essential to be aware of any legal responsibilities and restrictions that may apply. Here are some key legal considerations to keep in mind:

1. Local Laws and Wildlife Regulations

Check with your local authorities or wildlife department to determine if there are any specific laws or regulations regarding the removal of squirrels. Some areas may have restrictions on trapping or killing squirrels during certain seasons or if they are deemed a protected species.

2. Federal Regulations

In the United States, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) protects certain bird species, including squirrels. This means that it is illegal to kill, capture, or disturb these animals without a federal permit.

3. Trespassing

If the squirrels have entered your attic without permission, you have the right to remove them. However, be cautious not to disturb anyone else’s property in the process. If you need to access someone else’s property to reach the squirrels, obtain permission first.

4. Animal Welfare

When removing squirrels, it is important to prioritize their welfare. Use humane methods of eviction and avoid causing unnecessary harm or distress to the animals.

5. Disposal of Deceased Squirrels

If you trap or kill a squirrel, it is essential to dispose of its remains properly. Contact your local animal control or wildlife department for guidance on proper disposal methods.

6. Avoiding Litigation

By following these legal considerations, you can help avoid potential lawsuits or legal consequences related to the removal of squirrels from your attic.

7. Consulting with Professionals

If you are unsure about any legal aspects of squirrel removal, it is advisable to consult with a wildlife specialist or attorney.

8. Keeping Records

It is a good idea to keep records of your efforts to remove squirrels, including dates, methods used, and any interactions with wildlife authorities.

9. Seeking Assistance

If you encounter difficulties in removing squirrels from your attic, do not hesitate to contact a professional pest control company or wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

10. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with legal considerations can result in fines, penalties, or other legal action. It is crucial to be aware of and adhere to the laws and regulations governing squirrel removal in your area.

How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Attic

Squirrels can be a real nuisance when they get into your attic. They can chew on wires, insulation, and other materials, and they can also leave behind droppings and urine, which can create a health hazard. If you have squirrels in your attic, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them.

First, you need to find out how the squirrels are getting into your attic. Once you know how they’re getting in, you can take steps to seal up the holes or cracks that they’re using. You can also try to deter squirrels from entering your attic by making it less appealing to them. For example, you can remove any food sources that might be attracting them, such as bird seed or pet food. You can also try to make your attic less inviting by removing any clutter or debris that might provide them with a place to nest.

If you’ve tried all of these methods and you’re still having problems with squirrels in your attic, you may need to call a professional pest control company. A pest control company can help you to identify the source of the problem and develop a plan to get rid of the squirrels.