As the weather turns colder, many of us look forward to cosy evenings indoors. However, humans are not the only ones seeking a warm refuge from the British winter. Lofts and attic spaces provide the perfect sanctuary for wild animals, and grey squirrels are among the most common unwelcome guests. Our squirrel callouts are up 58% year on year (1,460 against 923).
While squirrels might look cute in the park, having them inside your home is a different matter entirely. They can cause severe damage to your property and pose significant safety risks. Recognising the signs early is key to protecting your home.
Signs of squirrels in your loft
Because squirrels are active during daylight hours, you are more likely to hear them during the day than you would mice or rats, which are nocturnal. If you suspect you have an infestation, look out for the following signs:
- Loud scratching and scurrying: Unlike the quiet scuttling of mice, squirrels are heavy-handed. You will likely hear loud scratching, thumping, and rolling noises from the ceiling, particularly at dawn and dusk when they leave and return to the nest.
- Chewed woodwork and wires: Squirrels have teeth that grow continuously. To keep them sharp, they will gnaw on almost anything, including wooden roof joists, plastic water pipes, and electrical cabling.
- Damaged insulation: Squirrels will tear up loft insulation to build their nests, also known as dreys. If you find your insulation shredded or moved into piles, squirrels are a likely culprit.
- Droppings: Squirrel droppings are dark, round, and resemble large raisins. They are larger than rat droppings and are often found scattered across the loft floor.
- Unpleasant odours: A buildup of urine and droppings can create a strong, musty smell that eventually penetrates down into your living areas.
Why you must act quickly
Ignoring a squirrel problem can lead to serious consequences. The most hazardous behaviour is their tendency to chew through electrical wiring, which exposes live wires and creates a severe fire risk. Additionally, their gnawing on structural timbers can weaken the roof frame, while chewed water pipes can lead to costly flooding and water damage.
Under UK law, the grey squirrel is an invasive species. This means it is illegal to release a grey squirrel back into the wild once it has been caught. Therefore, any control measures must be handled humanely and legally, which is why professional intervention is highly recommended.
What to do next
If you have spotted the signs of squirrels in your loft, it is best to avoid tackling the problem yourself. Cornered squirrels can become aggressive and may bite or scratch. Furthermore, simply blocking their entry hole without removing them first can trap them inside, causing them to chew even more frantically to escape, or die within your walls, leading to severe odour and insect problems.
Professional pest control technicians have the training, equipment, and knowledge to resolve the issue safely. At JG Pest Control, our technicians hold the RSPH (BPCA) Level 2 qualification, ensuring that all treatments are carried out safely, legally, and humanely. We will not only remove the pests but also help you identify how they entered, offering advice on proofing your home to prevent future invasions.
JG Pest Control is the highest rated pest control company on Trustpilot, 4.8 out of 5 from more than 26,000 reviews. We pride ourselves on delivering a fast, reliable, and professional service to secure your home.
Get in touch
If you suspect you have squirrels living in your loft, do not wait for the damage to escalate. Contact our expert team today to discuss your situation or book an appointment online through our website.