How to Remove Squirrels from Your Attic—The Right Way

squirrel climbing tree in forest

Squirrels can be adorable, but that doesn’t mean you want them living in your attic. They chew electrical wiring, rip insulation, and turn your quiet home into a noisy playground. Left unchecked, attic squirrels can cause serious damage—not to mention sleepless nights.

If you’re dealing with a squirrel problem, you’re not alone. These agile rodents love warm, dry attics for raising their young. The good news? You can get rid of squirrels safely and humanely—without turning your home into a battleground.

Step 1: Find the Entry Point

Squirrels don’t teleport into your attic. They squeeze in through tree limbs touching your roof, broken vents, or gaps in soffits. Finding their entry point is crucial because sealing it too soon can trap a squirrel inside—or worse, separate a mother squirrel from her baby squirrels.

Check for:

  • Chewed wood or gaps near your roofline
  • Squirrel nests made of leaves and insulation
  • Droppings or tracks near access points

Once you locate their way in, don’t block it yet. You’ll need a plan to remove squirrels first.

Step 2: Encourage Squirrels to Leave

Squirrels dislike bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells. Before considering live capture traps, try these deterrents:

  • Cider vinegar – Soak rags and place them near the nest
  • Predator urine – Available online, it mimics the presence of a predator
  • Bright lights and a radio – A well-lit, noisy attic is less appealing

Give the squirrels a few days to leave on their own. If they don’t budge, it’s time for squirrel removal strategies.

Step 3: Use Humane Trapping Methods

If the squirrels refuse to leave, live trap solutions can help. Place a squirrel trap near their entry point, baited with peanut butter, nuts, or sunflower seeds. Once caught, release them at least eight kilometres away to prevent re-entry.

Important: If you suspect baby squirrels, trapping the mother could leave them behind. In this case, professional animal control services can safely relocate the entire family.

Step 4: Seal and Prevent Future Infestations

Once all the unwanted pests are gone, it’s time to prevent squirrels from coming back:

  • Install metal flashing over the entry hole
  • Cover vents and chimneys with wire mesh or a chimney cap
  • Trim tree branches at least two metres from your roof
  • Remove outdoor attractants like bird feeders and open garbage bins

What If a Squirrel Dies in Your Attic?

A dead squirrel in your attic is not just unpleasant—it’s a health hazard. If you notice a strong odour, flies, or stains on the ceiling, you’ll need expert pest control services to locate and remove the carcass.

How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Squirrel from an Attic?

The cost to get rid of squirrels from your attic depends on factors like infestation size, difficulty of access, and necessary repairs. On average, professional pest control costs range from $150 to $600. If damage repair is needed, costs may rise.

Need Professional Help?

If DIY methods don’t work—or if you’d rather skip the hassle—our expert squirrels removal team can handle the problem safely and effectively.

  • Humane removal methods
  • Full attic inspection
  • Permanent prevention solutions

Don’t wait for more damage. Contact us today for fast, professional pest control services.

Share:

More Posts

raccoon reaching for someone’s smartphone

The Ultimate Guide to Pest Control Cost

When wildlife finds its way into your home, it’s more than just a nuisance. It’s stressful. It’s disruptive. It’s downright nerve-wracking. Whether you’re hearing mice

Send Us A Message

Please fill the form below and we will get back to you shortly.

let’s talk

PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVING THE GREATER TORONTO AREA

Burlington – Oakville – Mississauga – Brampton – Etobicoke – Vaughan – Woodbridge – North York – Toronto – East York – Aurora – Richmond Hill – Markham – Thornhill – Scarborough – Pickering – Ajax – Whitby – Oshawa – Bowmanville

© 2024 Gotchawildlife Inc. All Rights Reserved.