How to Get Rid of Flying Squirrels in Your Attic

Do you hear scratching and scurrying sounds in your attic in the evening or early morning? It’s possible that you have flying squirrels living in your home. Flying squirrels are cute and harmless creatures, but if they make a nest in your attic, they could cause trouble for you and your family.

What are Flying Squirrels?

Flying squirrels are small, nocturnal rodents that glide through the air using a fold of skin called a patagium. Flying squirrels have big eyes and a flattened tail, which helps them maneuver through the air.

• Flying squirrels are 8 to 12 inches long.
• Flying squirrels weigh between 2 and 5 ounces.
• Flying squirrels eat insects, nuts, seeds, and fruits.

Why are Flying Squirrels in Your Attic?

Flying squirrels are attracted to warm, dry, and safe environments to live and raise their young. Your attic provides a perfect habitat for flying squirrels, especially during the winter months. Flying squirrels can squeeze through small gaps in your roof, chew through wood, or climb up vines or trees to reach your attic.

Signs of Flying Squirrels in Your Attic

• Scratching and scurrying noises coming from your attic at night
• Tiny droppings or urine stains in your attic
• Chewed electrical wires, insulation, wood, or cardboard boxes
• Faint, musky odor in your attic

Why Should You Get Rid of Flying Squirrels in Your Attic?

Although flying squirrels are not harmful to humans, they can cause significant damage to your home. Flying squirrels can chew through electrical wires, which can lead to a fire hazard in your home. Flying squirrels can also destroy your attic insulation and leave behind droppings and urine that could cause health problems for you and your family.

How to Get Rid of Flying Squirrels in Your Attic

If you have flying squirrels in your attic, you’ll need to take action to remove them safely and effectively. Here are the steps that you can take to get rid of flying squirrels in your attic.

Step One: Inspect Your Attic

Before you start to remove the flying squirrels, you’ll need to inspect your attic to determine the extent of the infestation. Look for signs of damage, droppings, urine stains, and nesting material. You can also use a flashlight to find the entrance point where they are entering and exiting your attic.

Step Two: Seal Entry Points

Once you have located the entry point, you’ll need to seal it to prevent flying squirrels from coming back in. You can use caulk, steel wool, or wire mesh to seal any holes or gaps in your attic that they are using to enter and exit.

Step Three: Install a One-Way Door

After you have sealed all the entry points, install a one-way door over the remaining opening to allow the flying squirrels to leave your attic but not re-enter. A one-way door is a mesh structure that allows the squirrels to exit your attic but doesn’t allow them back in.

Step Four: Set Up Traps

While waiting for the flying squirrels to leave through the one-way door, set up traps in your attic to capture any flying squirrels that remain. You can use a live trap to catch the squirrels, and then release them into the wild.

Step Five: Clean Up Your Attic

After you have removed the flying squirrels from your attic, you’ll need to clean up the mess they left behind. Wear protective gloves and a mask to prevent direct contact with droppings and urine. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris, and then disinfect all surfaces with a bleach solution.

Step Six: Prevent Future Infestations

To prevent flying squirrels or other pests from invading your attic, you’ll need to take preventative measures. Trim any tree branches or vines that provide access to your roof. Seal all cracks, gaps, and holes in your roof and walls. Keep your attic clean and well-ventilated.

Natural Ways to Repel Flying Squirrels

If you feel reluctant to use traps in your attic, here are some natural ways to repel flying squirrels from your home.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Flying squirrels dislike the strong scent of peppermint essential oil. Soak a few cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around the entrance points and inside your attic to repel the squirrels.

Mothballs

Mothballs contain a strong odor that flying squirrels dislike. Place mothballs in a mesh bag and hang them around your attic to repel the squirrels.

Ultrasonic Repellents

Ultrasonic repellents emit high-pitched sounds that are inaudible to humans but can irritate flying squirrels. Buy an ultrasonic repellent and place it in your attic to repel the squirrels.

FAQs

1. Can I Remove Flying Squirrels from My Attic Myself?

Yes, you can remove flying squirrels from your attic yourself. However, you need to take the necessary safety precautions such as wearing protective gloves and a mask. Make sure to follow the steps outlined in this article to remove the squirrels safely and effectively.

2. How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of Flying Squirrels from My Attic?

It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to get rid of flying squirrels from your attic, depending on the severity of the infestation.

3. How Can I Tell If I Have Flying Squirrels in my Attic?

You can tell if you have flying squirrels in your attic if you hear scratching and scurrying sounds at night, find droppings and urine stains, smell a musky odor, or notice chewing on wood or insulation.

Conclusion

Flying squirrels are cute and fascinating creatures, but they can become a nuisance if they infest your attic. If you hear noises in your attic, it’s essential to take action to remove the squirrels safely and effectively. Follow the steps outlined in this article to get rid of the squirrels, clean up your attic, and prevent future infestations. If you’re not comfortable removing the squirrels yourself, call a professional pest control company to help you.