Squirrels often go unnoticed in our everyday life, simply because we are so used to sharing our lives with them. They seem harmless enough when you watch them scurry up trees at top speed, or when they’re stuffing their cheeks with acorns. They even make you laugh as you watch them play with each other or try to steal seeds from your bird feeder. Some people even encourage their local squirrels to come by human residences by feeding them intentionally.

However, we often mistakenly think that the damage in our garden was caused by rabbits, or the chew marks on the house siding was caused by mice. Squirrels slip our minds so often because it seems that most of us have forgotten that they are rodents capable of causing a lot of damage to our Westchester homes, and even to our health.

Despite their cuteness, squirrels are capable of destroying your home. A common place for them to set up shop is in your attic, as they are attracted to the cluttered mess that most people’s attics have, and the warmth and safety it provides makes it the perfect place for them to wreak havoc. 

So, what kind of damage can they cause?

1. Damaged housing: Squirrels are just like mice — they can squeeze through virtually any sized hole, no matter how small, and invade your house. Squirrels can chew right through roofing shingles and house siding as well. One of the best ways to prevent squirrels from damaging your home is to move bird feeders further away from the house, giving them less of a reason to come near it.
2. Chewed wiring: Much like other rodents, squirrels will happily chew on pretty much anything they can fit in their mouths, such as wires. This can cause electric issues in your home as well as damage any material items that have wires attached to them.
3. Chewed furniture: Not only will squirrels chew right through any wooden pieces on your furniture (armrests, legs, etc.) they will also destroy your cushions and possibly nest in them as well.
4. Yard damage: If you suspect rabbits have been destroying your yard, digging up plants, and ruining your bushes and trees by gnawing on them, the squirrels are actually likely the culprits. Keep any tree branches from nearby trees and shrubs away from the siding of your house to discourage squirrels from coming near your home in the first place.

The list of possible things squirrels may chew on in your attic and home is endless. If their teeth can get through it, they will chew it. Perhaps some of the worst damage is caused when a squirrel gets stuck in your attic or walls and dies — the smell is pungent and will permeate throughout your whole house.

If the possible damage squirrels can do to your attic, home, and material items isn’t enough to convince you to call Wildlife Removal NY to assist in exterminating your squirrel infestation, the diseases squirrels can pass onto you and your pets should:

• Salmonellosis: Salmonella bacteria is passed to humans through droppings, which squirrels will leave everywhere in your home if they invade. This illness can cause abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and a fever.
• Rabies: Rabies is considered one of the most deadly diseases, and squirrels sometimes carry it. If you are bitten or scratched by a squirrel, whether inside your home or out in your yard, seek immediate medical treatment.
• Lyme disease: While Lyme disease is actually transmitted via ticks, the ticks often hitch a free ride on squirrels before transferring to a human host. Lyme disease can cause stiffness and nerve pain, as well as possible swelling of the brain or spinal cord.

Because it is possible for squirrels to carry these diseases, it is important to contact a reputable wildlife removal agency, such as Wildlife Removal NY, for assistance.

Wildlife Removal NY has many years of experience trapping and removing all different types of wildlife from residential homes and areas. Our expertise on squirrel behavior and the diseases they can carry allow us to effectively and safely remove squirrels that have invaded your attic in Westchester.

If you are concerned about squirrels in your attic, call Wildlife Removal NY today!

Copyright © 2022 Wildlife Removal NY – All Rights Reserved. / Terms and Conditions / Accessibility Statement