Squirrel Identification Guide

What are squirrels?

Squirrels are rodents that are known for their curious, mischievous nature and their ability to easily find their way into homes and other structures. Squirrels in New Haven have dark eyes and ears that stand up off their heads, and long bodies covered in fur that ranges from gray to reddish-brown. These rodents are most well known for their long, bushy tails.

Are squirrels dangerous?

Squirrels pose many dangers to people, especially after moving into a home. They are a type of rodent, which means they have front incisors that continuously grow. To prevent these teeth from overgrowing, they will chew on anything they come across; their chewing habit damages objects like pipes, wires, and flooring. Squirrels will do a lot of digging and scratching when building nests inside – damaging insulation, sheet rock, and wires. Damage caused by squirrels may lead to fires and electrical shorts.

Inside your home or business, the excrement and saliva from squirrels will contaminate food and surface areas, as well as cause allergic reactions in some people. Squirrels are also hosts for disease-spreading parasites such as fleas, mites, and ticks.

Why do I have a squirrel problem?

Squirrels often move into homes and other buildings to create nests in a safe, temperature-controlled environment. When the weather cools in the late fall, squirrels become more motivated to seek indoor shelter in which to overwinter by taking advantage of any opening that they find. They are also attracted to our properties because our gardens and lawns provide them with their favorite food sources including fruits, nuts, seeds, insects, and bulbs.

Where will I find squirrels?

Squirrels inhabit wooded areas such as parks and yards, and are also regularly seen running across rooftops and jumping from utility poles. When they find their way into homes and other structures, they choose quiet, secluded nesting spots like attics, crawlspaces, chimneys, and behind walls. They also hide in garages, sheds, and other outbuildings.

How do I get rid of squirrels?

Here at Connecticut Pest Elimination, our dedicated and licensed pest technicians provide the comprehensive pest exterminator services needed to eliminate squirrels and other common pests and keep them from returning! Guard your home or business against pests with the help of a local, full-service pest control company with over 27 years of experience. For more information about our residential and commercial pest control services, reach out to Connecticut Pest Elimination today!

How can I prevent squirrels in the future?

In addition to our professional rodent control services, the following prevention tips will help you to avoid problems with squirrels here in Connecticut:

• Place steel screening over vents leading into your home or business.
• Repair any damage to your foundation, exterior walls, or roofline.
• Place tight-fitting caps on all chimneys.
• Trim tree branches back from your exterior walls and roof.
• Keep garage, shed, and basement doors closed as much as possible.
• Remove bird feeders from your yard that act as a food source for squirrels.