Do You Hear Squirrel Noises Coming From Your Attic? What To Do Next

Posted on March 29, 2024 by richmond

It’s the sound that immediately evokes images of animated critters ‘going to town’, leaping from rafter to rafter, and sharp little claws scratching on wood. Homeowners across the country are all too familiar with this auditory invasion – squirrels in the attic.

While it might start as a noise that only you can hear, the longer it goes on, the more evident it becomes that it’s a problem that can’t be ignored. In this extensive guide, we’ll explore the nuances of squirrel infestations in attics, why you should care, and what to do about it.

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How to Identify Squirrel Infestations in Your Attic

If you suspect squirrel inhabitants, knowing what to look for can confirm your suspicions. Here’s what you need to know:

Squirrel Infestation Signs to Look Out For

Auditory Cues: The most common sign of a squirrel infestation is the noise they create—scratching, running, and the occasional screech can all be typical signs that they’ve made a home in your attic. Keep your ears open for activity during dawn and dusk, the times when squirrels are most active.
Visual Confirmation: Squirrels are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day. Unlike nocturnal pests, you might actually see them entering or exiting your home.
Evidence of Nesting: Squirrels often build nests out of materials they can find in your home, like insulation or shredded paper. If you see piles of debris in your attic, you could be looking at a squirrel’s handiwork.

Common Misconceptions about Squirrel Noises

It’s easy to mistake the sounds of squirrels for that of other pests, like rats or mice. However, the noise patterns are different. While all are more active at night, the sound of a squirrel is often described as more ‘rhythmic’ due to their jumping and landing patterns. It’s important to be able to distinguish these sounds given the different methods of eviction for each pest.

The Dangers of Ignoring Squirrel Infestations

Squirrel infestations are more than an inconvenience; they can be a significant risk to your home and health.

Health Risks and Property Damage

Disease Transmission: Squirrels can carry diseases like leptospirosis and salmonellosis, as well as parasites that can affect humans and pets.
Chewed Wires: One of the most dangerous threats is to your electrical wiring. Squirrels are rodents and their teeth never stop growing, so they gnaw on things to keep them trimmed down. This often leads them to chew on wires, which can cause house fires.
Insulation Destruction: Insulation doesn’t just keep your home warm in the winter; it regulates temperature and prevents drafts. Squirrels can quickly damage insulation, leading to increased energy bills.

Impact on Insulation and Wiring

Higher Utility Costs: Damaged insulation can result in significant heat and cooling loss, raising your utility bills.
Chewed Structural Elements: Wood beams, electrical wires, and plumbing can all fall victim to a squirrel’s toothy pursuits.
A Source of Humidity: Insulation serves as a barrier for humidity entering your living spaces, playing a key role in mold and mildew prevention.

The Importance of Professional Squirrel Removal

When facing a squirrel infestation in your attic, handling it yourself can be daunting and dangerous. Professional squirrel removal services offer expertise that ensures your home is free of pests and safe from potential damage.

Advantages of Hiring a Professional

Thorough Inspections: Professionals can identify all points of entry, so you don’t find yourself dealing with the same problem again in a few months.
Safe and Humane Trapping: Using the right traps and techniques ensures the safety of both the squirrels and your family members.
Exclusion Repairs: Experts can help secure your home by repairing entry points and providing advice on how to make your home less attractive to future pests.
Cleanup and Restoration: Squirrel droppings and urine can create a health hazard. Professionals can ensure that your attic is properly cleaned and restored to its former condition.

Tips for Choosing an Animal Removal Service

Licensing and Certification: Ensure the company you choose is licensed and certified for animal removal services.
Experience: Ask about the company’s experience with squirrel infestations specifically.
References: Don’t hesitate to request references or testimonials from previous customers who’ve had similar problems.

Preventing Future Attic Infestations

Once you’ve rid your home of squirrels, the next step is keeping them out. Prevention is key to avoiding another infestation.

Securing Entry Points

Regular Inspections: Make a habit of checking your roof and siding for any potential entry points.
Use Sturdy Materials: Repair any damage with materials that squirrels can’t chew through, like steel mesh.
Professional Advice: If you’re unsure how to squirrel-proof your home, consult with an animal damage control specialist.

Trim Trees and Branches Near Your Home

Squirrels are natural acrobats and use trees to access your roof. Trimming branches so they’re at least 8 feet away from your home can limit their access.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Attic Space

Regular Cleanings: Regularly cleaning your attic discourages squirrels from nesting there.
Organized Storage: Use sealed plastic containers for storage, preventing squirrels from seeing your attic as a desirable living space.

Conclusion

Ignoring squirrel infestations not only endangers your health and safety but also puts the integrity of your home at risk. By properly identifying the issue, taking immediate steps to remove them, and subsequently animal-proofing your home, you can save yourself from costly repairs and ensure the comfort and safety of your family. If you have a suspicion of squirrel activity in your attic, don’t wait. Take action promptly, and don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. Your home, family, and peace of mind are too important to delay.

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Safe Solutions for Nuisance Woodpecker Problems

Posted on March 20, 2024 by richmond

For some, the rhythmic pecking of a woodpecker sounds like a tranquil part of nature’s soundtrack. For others, it’s the beginning of a slew of annoyances and potential property damage. In regions like Virginia, the presence of woodpeckers can be a common and frustrating issue, especially when these feathery drummers decide that your home or business is the perfect percussion stage.

If you’ve found yourself in the clutches of a woodpecker predicament, fear not; this blog will provide you with effective means to peacefully coexist with these beautiful birds without sacrificing your sanity or structural integrity.

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Why Woodpeckers are a Nuisance

Woodpeckers are infamous for their pecking behavior, which can not only be loud and unnerving but also lead to unsightly damage to buildings and homes. They’re not doing it to be malicious – it’s an instinctual habit driven by a variety of biological and environmental factors. These avian architects aren’t just building their reputations; sometimes, they’re creating real damage, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair.

The 101 on Woodpecker Behavior

Woodpecker Species Native to Virginia

Virginia plays host to several woodpecker species, each unique in their feather patterns, behaviors, and habitats. The most frequent culprits include the downy woodpecker, the northern flicker, and the red-bellied woodpecker.

Why They ‘Peck’

Why do woodpeckers peck on buildings? The answer’s not ‘one-size-fits-all.’ For some, it’s a territorial display or a part of courtship behavior. Others may be seeking out insects living inside the wood, attracted by the sounds or the reverberations the wood makes.

The Damage They Can Do

Regardless of the reason, the impact on structures and surroundings can range from holes in siding, to weakened structural beams, and a general decrease in the aesthetic integrity of your property.

Non-Harmful Woodpecker Deterrents

Thankfully, there are myriad non-harmful ways to deter woodpeckers that won’t harm the birds or disrupt the local ecosystem. These strategies are often effective in encouraging woodpeckers to seek out new territories.

Visual Disorientation

Visual deterrents, such as reflective tape, balloons, or special scare eye balloons, can confuse and deter the most determined pecker. These are cost-effective and easily installed, offering immediate relief from woodpecker visits.

Sound Strategies

Auditory deterrents like alarms and distress calls can effectively disrupt the woodpecker’s pecking party. Modern technology even offers devices that mimic the natural predator calls that these birds fear, making your property a less inviting target.

Physical Barriers

Mesh nettings, bird spikes, and special coatings can be applied to vulnerable areas to make pecking less rewarding for the birds. While they might require more initial effort and planning, these barriers can provide long-term peace of mind.

DIY Preventive Measures

Taking control of the woodpecker situation doesn’t always mean dramatic intervention. Simple changes in your property can make a world of difference.

Adjusting Their Environment

Making your surroundings less hospitable for woodpeckers can nudge them away. This might involve clearing away dead trees or branches that could serve as drumming posts or reducing the abstraction of their reflection on windows.

Rethinking Your Landscape

Controlling the types and locations of trees and plants around your property can mitigate woodpecker interest. Thinning out trees that are near your building can reduce the amount of practice space available for these avian drumline champions.

Nip Nesting in the Bud

If a woodpecker finds a spot on your property that they deem nest-worthy, they’re not likely to forget it. Being proactive about sealing off any nooks and crannies that could become nesting areas is key in deterring them from returning.

Safe and Humane Woodpecker Removal Methods

When all else fails, and the woodpeckers are a persistent problem, it may be time to consider bird removal methods.

Professional Bird Removal and Control

Professional wildlife removal and control services are equipped with the knowledge and experience to handle woodpecker issues humanely and effectively. By understanding local laws and regulations, these services ensure that all proper steps are taken to resolve the problem without causing harm to the birds or the environment.

DIY is Not Recommended

While DIY enthusiasts and well-meaning neighbors might offer advice or services, it’s worth investing in a professional. Improper bird removal can lead to more problems, such as lingering smells, attracted vermin, or even legal repercussions if done without proper permits.

Conclusion

Dealing with woodpeckers doesn’t have to mean declaring war on nature. By employing a combination of deterrent strategies, preventive measures, and, if necessary, professional assistance, you can manage nuisance woodpecker issues in a responsible and effective manner. The key is to start early, stay informed, and act decisively.

If you find yourself in a “peck” of trouble, remember that your goal is not to eradicate these beautiful birds but to re-direct their activities away from your home. In the end, by respecting nature and employing ethical means to solve your woodpecker woes, you’ll not only protect your property but also contribute to a healthier coexistence with the wildlife around you.

Dealing with a woodpecker problem around your house or business? Contact Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for professional bird removal and control in Richmond and beyond. Our licensed and insured animal trappers work with all native Virginia wildlife, using only safe and humane methods to extract and abate nuisance animals. Request a free quote, today.

Nesting Nuisances: Handling Squirrels and Their Young in Your Attic

Posted on March 11, 2024 by richmond

Squirrels are known for their agile dexterity, fluffy tails, and—unfortunately for homeowners—keen nesting instincts. When squirrels take up residence in the cozy confines of your attic, it can lead to a myriad of issues, from damaging your property to creating a health hazard. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the squirrel conundrum, from identifying their presence to safe removal and future prevention. This shall give you an actionable plan to handle these fluffy-tailed interlopers.

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Squirrels Noises Coming From the Attic?

Imagine this: it’s a quiet evening, and you’re unwinding at home, possibly in the attic working on a project, when you hear the pitter-patter of tiny feet, only to find they’re not so tiny – they belong to a family of squirrels. But what’s the big deal? They’re just harmless critters, right? Not so fast. Squirrels in the attic might be adorable, but they can quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare.

Common Problems Associated With Squirrel Infestations

Squirrel infestations in attics pose several problems, each escalating in severity the longer the squirrels are left to their devices. First and foremost, these critters are not timid when it comes to making their home their own. They’ll chew through insulation, electrical wiring, and even wood to build their nests, leading to the risk of fires and costly repairs. Even if you find them adorable, structural damages caused by them can lead to hefty bills.

There are also several legal considerations regarding squirrel removal and control. Depending on where you live, there may be legal implications to consider before taking any removal action. Some squirrel species are protected and disturbing them could warrant penalties.

Typical Squirrel Infestation Signs

Awareness is your first line of defense. Listen for scratching, rustling, or scampering sounds, especially during the day, which is when squirrels are most active. Stains from their urine or droppings, which look similar to those of rats but larger, are also telltale signs. Becoming familiar with these indicators allows you to act promptly and protect your home.

The most indicative signs of a squirrel infestation in your attic include:

◈ Unusual, repetitive noises during the day
◈ Foul odors
◈ Diminished insulation
◈ Chewed wires or wood
◈ Droppings in your attic

Safe and Humane Squirrel Removal Methods

Once you’ve confirmed the presence of squirrels, the next step is extraction. But how you remove squirrels and their babies is crucial, as both your safety and the well-being of the squirrels need to be considered. For most, the risks and potential legal issues of DIY squirrel removal are too significant to consider. Professional squirrel removal services have the expertise to safely and legally perform eviction procedures, such as one-way doors that allow squirrels to exit but not re-enter. It’s important to note that relocating wildlife is illegal in many areas and can be far more harmful to squirrel populations than people realize.

Why professional animal removal contractors are often the best choice for squirrel removal:

◈ Expertise in identifying species and their behaviors
◈ Safe, humane trapping and removal
◈ Legal compliance and paperwork if needed

Attic Damage Cleanup and Repair

The removal of a squirrel is a significant step, but the post-infestation cleanup/repair phase is just as crucial. Droppings carry diseases, so proper sanitation is necessary. In addition, you’ll need to assess and repair any damage done to the attic’s structure.

Attic cleanup steps after squirrel removal include:

◈ Identifying the extent of the damage.
◈ Sanitizing the area to eliminate health hazards.
◈ Repairing chewed wires, bad insulation, and any other structural damage.
◈ Proper and thorough cleanup ensures your attic is safe.

How to Prevent Squirrels in the Attic

The best way to deal with a squirrel infestation in the attic is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Squirrels are resourceful, but you can be too with these strategic precautions. They can fit through incredibly small openings. Ensuring every nook and cranny is sealed is your best approach. Use mesh wire or hardware cloth to secure vents, chimneys, and any openings they might use to access your attic. Chimney caps, vent covers, and squirrel baffles are wise considerations.

Key points for securing entry points to your attic:

◈ Conduct regular inspections of your home.
◈ Seal any openings, even if they seem too small.
◈ Trim tree branches that provide easy access to your roof.

Squirrel Control Tips

Deterring squirrels involves making your home less attractive to them. Regular maintenance and a diligent upkeep schedule can go a long way. Effective ways to deter squirrels from your property:

☑ Ensure food waste is properly disposed of in sealed containers.

☑ Use motion-activated lights or noise devices to startle them if they approach your home.

☑ Create a less appealing environment by sprinkling predator urine or animal repellent around the perimeter of your home.

☑ Consistency is key – keep these measures in place even after you think the coast is clear.

Conclusion

Squirrels in the attic may seem like an adorable, if unwelcome, surprise, but the potential hazards they bring with them are nothing to ignore. By understanding the issue, safely removing the squirrels, thoroughly cleaning affected areas, and taking preventative measures, you can steer clear of a squirrel saga in your home.

Remember, when it comes to these furry terrors, it’s often best to defer to the professionals. If you’ve encountered a squirrel situation that’s more than you can handle, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Richmond Virginia wildlife control service. They have the experience and knowledge to handle the issue effectively, humanely, and legally.

Protecting your home from squirrel infestations is not a one-time event. It’s a commitment to the ongoing health and safety of your home. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and if you need to, secure the help of people who have dedicated their careers to handling these situations. Your home is your sanctuary, and with the right approach, it can remain free from the unwanted nursery of a squirrel family.

Are you having trouble with nuisance squirrels in your area of Virginia? Contact Virginia Wildlife Pros at 804-292-0156 for professional squirrel removal services in Richmond and its outer regions, today. We serve residential and commercial customers with free quotes, free advice, and quality work.