Flying squirrels in your walls can be a real nuisance, but don’t worry, flyermedia.net has got you covered with effective solutions. Getting rid of these nocturnal gliders involves a combination of strategic trapping and habitat modification techniques to prevent their return. Learn how to remove flying squirrels, implement exclusion methods, and maintain a pest-free home with our expert advice on wildlife control, pest prevention, and home maintenance.
1. What Are Flying Squirrels And Why Are They In My Walls?
Flying squirrels are small rodents that glide through the air using a membrane between their front and back legs, and they often seek shelter in walls and attics because these spaces offer warmth, safety, and nesting opportunities. According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, flying squirrels are attracted to structures that provide easy access to food and shelter. These creatures are not true fliers but rather gliders, using a membrane called a patagium to move between trees or structures. They are typically nocturnal, which is why you might hear them scurrying around at night.
1.1 What Makes Flying Squirrels Different From Other Squirrels?
Flying squirrels have a unique adaptation that sets them apart from their ground-dwelling cousins: a membrane of skin that stretches between their front and rear legs, allowing them to glide through the air. Unlike other squirrels, flying squirrels are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. This nocturnal behavior, combined with their gliding ability, makes them well-suited for navigating dense forests and finding food sources under the cover of darkness.
1.2 Why Do Flying Squirrels Choose Walls As Their Home?
Flying squirrels often choose walls as their home because these spaces offer several advantages: protection from predators, a stable temperature, and proximity to food sources. Walls and attics provide a safe haven where flying squirrels can build nests and raise their young without the threat of larger animals. The insulation in walls also helps to regulate temperature, keeping the squirrels warm in winter and cool in summer. Additionally, walls may be located near trees or other structures that provide easy access to food, such as nuts, seeds, and insects.
2. Identifying A Flying Squirrel Infestation
Identifying a flying squirrel infestation involves recognizing the signs of their presence, such as nocturnal noises, droppings, and physical evidence of nesting. According to the University of Maine, homeowners often hear scratching, scurrying, or gliding sounds within their walls or attics at night. Droppings are small and pellet-shaped, often found near nesting areas. You may also find shredded insulation, gnawed wood, or other materials used for building nests. Regular inspections of your property can help you identify an infestation early, before it becomes a larger problem.
2.1 What Sounds Do Flying Squirrels Make In Walls?
Flying squirrels make a variety of sounds in walls, including scratching, scurrying, and soft chirping noises. These sounds are most often heard at night, as flying squirrels are nocturnal animals. The scratching and scurrying sounds are produced as the squirrels move around within the walls, while the chirping noises may be used for communication between individuals. If you hear these sounds regularly, it is a good indication that you have flying squirrels living in your walls.
2.2 How Can I Tell The Difference Between Squirrels And Other Pests?
Telling the difference between squirrels and other pests involves observing the size, shape, and location of droppings, as well as the types of damage caused. Squirrel droppings are typically larger and more cylindrical than those of mice or rats. Squirrels also tend to cause more extensive damage to structures, such as gnawing on wood and tearing insulation. Additionally, squirrels are active during the day, while many other pests, such as rats and mice, are more active at night.
2.3 What Are The Common Entry Points For Flying Squirrels?
Common entry points for flying squirrels include gaps in siding, holes in the roof, and openings around pipes and vents. These small rodents are adept at squeezing through tiny spaces, so even a small crack or hole can provide an entry point. Inspect your home’s exterior for any potential openings and seal them with caulk, metal flashing, or other durable materials. Pay particular attention to areas where different materials meet, such as where the roof joins the walls.
3. Humane Methods For Removing Flying Squirrels
Humane methods for removing flying squirrels include trapping and releasing, using deterrents, and sealing entry points. Trapping and releasing involves setting live traps baited with nuts, seeds, or peanut butter. Once captured, the squirrels should be released at least five miles away from your property to prevent their return. Deterrents, such as mothballs or predator urine, can be used to discourage squirrels from entering your home. Sealing entry points with durable materials prevents squirrels from re-entering the structure.
3.1 How To Trap Flying Squirrels Humanely
Trapping flying squirrels humanely involves using live traps baited with attractive food items and checking the traps regularly to ensure the squirrels are not left in them for extended periods. Live traps should be placed in areas where squirrels are known to frequent, such as near entry points or nesting sites. Bait the traps with nuts, seeds, or peanut butter to lure the squirrels inside. Check the traps daily and release any captured squirrels in a suitable habitat at least five miles away from your property.
3.2 What Baits Are Most Effective For Trapping?
Effective baits for trapping flying squirrels include nuts, seeds, peanut butter, and dried fruit. These food items are highly attractive to squirrels and will entice them to enter the trap. Place the bait in the back of the trap to encourage the squirrel to fully enter before the trap is triggered. You can also sprinkle some bait around the entrance of the trap to lead the squirrel inside.
3.3 Where Should I Release Trapped Squirrels?
Trapped squirrels should be released in a suitable habitat at least five miles away from your property to prevent them from returning. Look for areas with plenty of trees, shrubs, and natural food sources, such as nuts and seeds. Avoid releasing squirrels in urban or residential areas, as they may become a nuisance to other homeowners. It is also important to release the squirrels in an area where they will not be exposed to extreme weather conditions or predators.
4. Natural Deterrents To Keep Flying Squirrels Away
Natural deterrents to keep flying squirrels away include using strong scents, such as peppermint oil or garlic, and creating an unfavorable environment by removing food sources and nesting materials. Flying squirrels have a strong sense of smell, and certain scents can be offensive to them. Placing cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil or scattering garlic cloves around entry points can deter squirrels from entering your home. Removing food sources, such as bird feeders and pet food, and clearing away nesting materials, such as leaves and twigs, can also make your property less attractive to squirrels.
4.1 What Scents Do Flying Squirrels Dislike?
Flying squirrels dislike strong scents such as peppermint oil, garlic, and mothballs. These scents can irritate their sensitive noses and deter them from entering areas where they are present. You can use these scents to your advantage by placing them around entry points or nesting sites to discourage squirrels from taking up residence in your home. Be sure to refresh the scents regularly, as they will dissipate over time.
4.2 How To Use Essential Oils To Repel Squirrels
Using essential oils to repel squirrels involves diluting the oil with water and spraying it around areas where squirrels are known to frequent. Peppermint oil is a particularly effective deterrent, but other essential oils, such as eucalyptus and citronella, may also work. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to entry points, nesting sites, and other areas where squirrels are present. Reapply the spray regularly, especially after rain.
4.3 Are There Plants That Naturally Repel Flying Squirrels?
While there are no plants that are known to completely repel flying squirrels, certain plants may be less attractive to them. Plants with strong scents, such as mint, lavender, and rosemary, may deter squirrels from entering your garden or yard. Additionally, plants with prickly or thorny foliage may be less appealing to squirrels, as they can be difficult to navigate. Consider incorporating these types of plants into your landscaping to make your property less attractive to flying squirrels.
5. Sealing Entry Points To Prevent Re-Infestation
Sealing entry points to prevent re-infestation is crucial for long-term flying squirrel control. This involves inspecting your home’s exterior for any gaps, cracks, or holes that squirrels could use to enter, and sealing them with durable materials such as caulk, metal flashing, or wire mesh. Pay particular attention to areas where different materials meet, such as where the roof joins the walls, and around pipes, vents, and chimneys. Regular maintenance and repairs can help to prevent new entry points from forming.
5.1 What Materials Are Best For Sealing Entry Points?
The best materials for sealing entry points include caulk, metal flashing, wire mesh, and expanding foam. Caulk is a versatile sealant that can be used to fill small gaps and cracks, while metal flashing is a more durable option for larger openings. Wire mesh can be used to cover vents and other openings, preventing squirrels from entering while still allowing for airflow. Expanding foam can be used to fill large gaps and provide insulation, but it should be used with caution, as it can be difficult to remove once it has hardened.
5.2 How To Seal Common Entry Points Effectively
Sealing common entry points effectively involves identifying all potential entry points and using the appropriate materials to seal them securely. Start by inspecting your home’s exterior for any gaps, cracks, or holes. Pay particular attention to areas where different materials meet, such as where the roof joins the walls, and around pipes, vents, and chimneys. Use caulk to fill small gaps and cracks, and metal flashing or wire mesh to cover larger openings. Ensure that all materials are properly secured and that there are no gaps or openings remaining.
5.3 When Should I Hire A Professional To Seal Entry Points?
You should hire a professional to seal entry points if you are unable to identify or seal all potential entry points yourself, or if the entry points are located in hard-to-reach areas. A professional pest control company will have the experience and equipment necessary to thoroughly inspect your home and seal all entry points effectively. They can also provide advice on how to prevent future infestations.
6. Maintaining A Squirrel-Free Home: Prevention Tips
Maintaining a squirrel-free home involves implementing preventative measures to discourage squirrels from entering your property. This includes removing food sources, trimming trees and shrubs, and regularly inspecting your home for potential entry points. By taking these steps, you can create an environment that is less attractive to squirrels and reduce the likelihood of future infestations.
6.1 How To Landscape Your Yard To Deter Squirrels
Landscaping your yard to deter squirrels involves removing food sources, trimming trees and shrubs, and using squirrel-resistant plants. Remove bird feeders, pet food, and other potential food sources from your yard. Trim trees and shrubs to prevent squirrels from accessing your roof or other structures. Use squirrel-resistant plants in your landscaping, such as those with strong scents or prickly foliage.
6.2 What Routine Maintenance Can Prevent Squirrel Infestations?
Routine maintenance that can prevent squirrel infestations includes regularly inspecting your home for potential entry points, repairing any damage to your roof or siding, and keeping your yard clean and free of debris. Check your roof, siding, and foundation for any gaps, cracks, or holes, and seal them with caulk, metal flashing, or wire mesh. Repair any damage to your roof or siding promptly to prevent squirrels from gaining access to your home. Keep your yard clean and free of debris, such as leaves, twigs, and fallen fruit, which can provide food and shelter for squirrels.
6.3 How Often Should I Inspect My Home For Squirrels?
You should inspect your home for squirrels at least twice a year, in the spring and fall. These are the times of year when squirrels are most active and are likely to be seeking shelter in your home. During your inspections, pay particular attention to areas where squirrels are known to frequent, such as the attic, crawl space, and walls. Look for signs of squirrel activity, such as droppings, nests, and gnawed wood.
7. Professional Pest Control: When To Call The Experts
Professional pest control is necessary when you are unable to remove flying squirrels on your own or when the infestation is extensive. According to the National Pest Management Association, professional pest control companies have the training, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively remove squirrels from your home. They can also provide advice on how to prevent future infestations. If you suspect that you have a significant squirrel problem, it is best to call a professional pest control company for assistance.
7.1 What Services Do Pest Control Companies Offer For Squirrel Removal?
Pest control companies offer a range of services for squirrel removal, including trapping, exclusion, and habitat modification. Trapping involves setting live traps to capture squirrels and remove them from your property. Exclusion involves sealing entry points to prevent squirrels from re-entering your home. Habitat modification involves removing food sources and nesting materials to make your property less attractive to squirrels.
7.2 How To Choose A Reputable Pest Control Company
Choosing a reputable pest control company involves checking their credentials, reading reviews, and obtaining multiple quotes. Ensure that the company is licensed and insured, and that their technicians are properly trained. Read online reviews to see what other customers have to say about their services. Obtain quotes from multiple companies and compare their prices and services before making a decision.
7.3 What Questions Should I Ask A Pest Control Professional?
Questions to ask a pest control professional include their experience with squirrel removal, the methods they use, and their warranty policy. Ask how long they have been in business and how many squirrel removal jobs they have completed. Ask about the methods they use for trapping, exclusion, and habitat modification. Ask about their warranty policy and what steps they will take if the squirrels return.
8. Understanding The Risks Associated With Flying Squirrels
Understanding the risks associated with flying squirrels is important for protecting your home and family. Flying squirrels can cause damage to your property by gnawing on wood, tearing insulation, and contaminating food and water sources. They can also carry diseases and parasites that can be harmful to humans and pets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), squirrels can transmit diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and tularemia.
8.1 What Kind Of Damage Can Flying Squirrels Cause?
Flying squirrels can cause a variety of damage to your home, including gnawing on wood, tearing insulation, and contaminating food and water sources. They may chew through electrical wires, which can create a fire hazard. They may also damage your roof, siding, and other structures by gnawing and scratching. Additionally, their droppings and urine can create unpleasant odors and attract other pests.
8.2 What Diseases Can Flying Squirrels Carry?
Flying squirrels can carry a number of diseases and parasites that can be harmful to humans and pets. These include rabies, leptospirosis, tularemia, and Lyme disease. They can also carry fleas, ticks, and mites, which can transmit diseases to humans and pets. It is important to avoid direct contact with squirrels and to take precautions to prevent them from entering your home.
8.3 How To Safely Clean Up After A Flying Squirrel Infestation
Safely cleaning up after a flying squirrel infestation involves wearing protective gear, disinfecting contaminated areas, and disposing of waste properly. Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection to prevent exposure to diseases and parasites. Disinfect contaminated areas with a bleach solution or a commercial disinfectant. Dispose of droppings, nesting materials, and other waste in a sealed plastic bag. Wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning.
9. Debunking Common Myths About Flying Squirrels
Debunking common myths about flying squirrels can help homeowners make informed decisions about pest control. One common myth is that flying squirrels are only active in the winter. In reality, flying squirrels are active year-round, although they may be more visible in the winter when other food sources are scarce. Another myth is that flying squirrels can be easily removed with over-the-counter repellents. While some repellents may deter squirrels temporarily, they are not a long-term solution.
9.1 Are Flying Squirrels Only A Winter Problem?
Flying squirrels are not only a winter problem. While they may be more visible in the winter when other food sources are scarce, they are active year-round. They may seek shelter in your home during the winter months to escape the cold, but they can also be a nuisance during the spring, summer, and fall. It is important to take preventative measures year-round to keep squirrels out of your home.
9.2 Can I Use Mothballs To Get Rid Of Flying Squirrels?
Mothballs may deter flying squirrels temporarily, but they are not a long-term solution. Mothballs contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans and pets, and they are not effective at eliminating squirrel infestations. It is best to use humane methods, such as trapping and exclusion, to remove squirrels from your home.
9.3 Will Flying Squirrels Eventually Leave On Their Own?
Flying squirrels are unlikely to leave on their own once they have established a nest in your home. They will continue to seek shelter and food in your home as long as it is available. It is important to take action to remove squirrels from your home and prevent them from returning.
10. Resources For Further Information
Resources for further information about flying squirrels include university extension services, pest control associations, and government agencies. University extension services, such as those at the University of Florida and Penn State University, offer a wealth of information about squirrel biology, behavior, and control methods. Pest control associations, such as the National Pest Management Association, can provide referrals to qualified pest control professionals in your area. Government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture, offer information about wildlife management and conservation.
10.1 University Extension Services
University extension services are a valuable resource for homeowners seeking information about flying squirrels and other pests. These services offer research-based information and advice on a variety of topics, including pest identification, control methods, and preventative measures. They also provide educational programs and workshops for homeowners and pest control professionals.
10.2 Pest Control Associations
Pest control associations are organizations that represent pest control professionals and provide resources for homeowners seeking pest control services. These associations can provide referrals to qualified pest control companies in your area and offer information about pest control methods and regulations. They also promote professionalism and ethical standards within the pest control industry.
10.3 Government Agencies
Government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), play a role in regulating pest control and providing information about wildlife management and conservation. The USDA conducts research on pest biology and control methods, while the EPA regulates the use of pesticides and other pest control products. These agencies also provide information about protecting human health and the environment from pests.
FAQ: Your Questions About Flying Squirrels Answered
1. Are flying squirrels dangerous to humans?
While generally not aggressive, flying squirrels can carry diseases and parasites, posing a health risk if they invade your living space.
2. How do I know if I have flying squirrels in my attic?
Listen for scurrying or gliding sounds at night, and look for small, pellet-like droppings.
3. What is the best way to get rid of flying squirrels?
Humane trapping and relocation, combined with sealing entry points, is the most effective method.
4. Can flying squirrels cause structural damage to my home?
Yes, they can gnaw on wood, tear insulation, and even chew through electrical wires.
5. What kind of trap should I use for flying squirrels?
Use a live trap baited with nuts, seeds, or peanut butter.
6. How far away should I relocate a trapped flying squirrel?
Relocate them at least five miles away to prevent their return.
7. What scents deter flying squirrels?
Peppermint oil, garlic, and mothballs can act as deterrents.
8. Is it safe to handle flying squirrels?
No, avoid direct contact to prevent the risk of disease transmission.
9. How do pest control companies remove flying squirrels?
They use trapping, exclusion techniques, and habitat modification.
10. What routine maintenance can prevent squirrel infestations?
Regularly inspect your home for entry points and keep your yard free of debris.
Flying squirrels might seem cute, but their presence in your walls can lead to significant problems. By understanding their behavior, employing humane removal methods, and implementing preventative measures, you can safeguard your home and family from these nocturnal intruders.
Are you struggling with a flying squirrel infestation and need expert advice or professional assistance? Visit flyermedia.net today to find a list and review reputable pest control services in your area. Don’t let these critters compromise your home’s safety and serenity. Take action now and reclaim your peace of mind with flyermedia.net.
