Hearing scratching or running noises above your ceiling? You may have squirrels living in your roof. These animals are quick, clever, and determined when it comes to finding a warm place to nest. Attics and rooflines offer shelter, quiet, and protection from the elements, especially during Alberta’s colder months. While they may seem harmless at first, squirrels can cause serious damage if they settle in.
In this article, we’ll walk through the most common signs of a squirrel problem and explain why fast action is the best way to prevent long-term issues. By knowing what to look for, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs.
Why Squirrels Nest in Roofs and Attics
Squirrels are agile climbers, which makes your roof a natural target. During fall and winter, they search for warm, hidden spaces where they can nest and raise young. Soffits, gables, vents, and roof edges are all potential entry points. Once inside, they create nests using insulation, leaves, or paper and settle in for the season. An attic provides everything they need: warmth, darkness, and safety from predators.
You may also notice increased activity during the early morning or just before sunset. These are peak times for squirrel movement, and their presence often becomes more obvious when the house is quiet. Over time, a single squirrel can invite more, creating a larger infestation that’s harder to manage.
Common Signs of Squirrels in Your Roof
Spotting a squirrel on your roof isn’t always a cause for concern, but repeated signs indoors usually point to a problem. Watch and listen for these telltale clues:
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Scratching or running noises in ceilings or walls, especially early in the morning
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Chewed wood or insulation near the attic, soffits, or vents
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Droppings in attic corners or storage areas
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Shredded nesting material such as leaves, insulation, or paper
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Visible holes or chew marks near roof edges or eaves
If you see or hear more than one of these signs, it’s time to investigate. Squirrels are persistent once they’ve found a nesting spot, and the damage can escalate quickly.
Why It’s Important to Act Quickly
Ignoring the problem can lead to more than just noise. Squirrels are known to chew through electrical wires, which increases the risk of fire. They may damage insulation and drywall, causing heat loss and increased energy bills. Their droppings can also carry bacteria and lead to unpleasant odours that spread through your home.
Other risks include:
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Contamination of stored items in attics or crawlspaces
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Structural damage from repeated chewing and nesting
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Attracting other pests such as mites, fleas, or even raccoons
The longer the problem goes unaddressed, the more extensive (and expensive) the repairs may become.
What to Do If You Suspect Squirrels in the Roof
If you suspect squirrel activity, resist the urge to handle it on your own. Trapping or sealing entry points without confirming that all animals are gone can lead to worse problems, such as dead squirrels in the walls or separated young. The best approach is a professional inspection to assess the situation safely.
Here’s what you can do:
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Inspect from the ground for signs of roof damage or entry holes
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Listen for consistent noises during quiet hours in your home
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Avoid blocking exits until a technician confirms the space is empty
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Schedule a professional assessment for humane removal and repair
A licensed pest control team can remove the animals, seal access points, and help you prevent future nesting.
Protect Your Roof Before Damage Spreads
Squirrels may seem like a minor nuisance, but the damage they cause is anything but small. Taking action early protects your roof, your wiring, and your peace of mind. Whether you’ve heard something overhead or just want to be sure your attic is secure, we’re here to help.
Contact Birch Fumigators for expert squirrel removal and prevention services across Alberta.