How to Get Squirrels Out of Your Attic

Squirrels may be cute and curious when you see them playing outside, but they can be a real nuisance when they invade your attic. Here in Calgary, where winter temperatures can dip well below freezing, squirrels seek out warm, safe spaces like attics to nest, especially when they’re looking to escape the chill. Fortunately, you can take steps to safely remove squirrels from your attic, seal your home to prevent future intrusions, and ensure your space remains pest-free.

Step 1: Inspect for Entry Points

The first thing you'll need to do is figure out how the squirrels are getting in. Squirrels are excellent climbers and can squeeze through tiny spaces, so it's crucial to inspect your attic and home's exterior carefully. Here’s how to go about it:

• Check the Roof: Look for loose or damaged shingles, especially around the roofline where the wall meets the eaves. Calgary’s winter weather can cause roof damage from ice, snow, and wind, so this is a common entry point. Also, inspect the vents and gable ends (the triangular parts of your roof).
• Examine the Soffits and Fascia: These areas are often overlooked, but they’re common places for squirrels to sneak in. Make sure there are no gaps or holes in the wood or aluminum cladding, as squirrels can squeeze through spaces as small as 1.5 inches wide.
• Look for Gaps in the Chimney: If you have a chimney, check that it’s properly sealed with a chimney cap. Squirrels often use chimneys to access attics, especially during winter.
• Examine the Attic: Once inside, head to your attic and look for any signs of squirrel activity. These might include droppings, chewed wires, or shredded insulation used for nesting.

If you're unsure about the condition of your attic, it’s worth hiring a professional pest control to conduct a thorough inspection.

Step 2: Remove Attractants Around Your Home

Once you've sealed up the entry points, you should also take steps to remove anything that might be attracting the squirrels. Calgary's fall and winter months often lead squirrels to forage for food to build up their fat reserves.

Removing food sources and easy shelter from your property can help make your home less appealing:

• Secure Garbage Bins: Make sure your trash cans are securely closed and not overflowing. Squirrels are scavengers and will search for food in your garbage.
• Take Down Bird Feeders: While bird feeders are great for attracting wildlife, they can also draw squirrels. If you have a bird feeder near your home, consider moving it farther away or switching to a squirrel-proof model.
• Trim Overhanging Tree Branches: Squirrels are excellent climbers and often use nearby tree branches to leap onto roofs. Trim branches that overhang your roof or give squirrels easy access to your attic.
• Remove Pet Food: If you have pets, don’t leave pet food outside, especially at night when squirrels are most active.

Additionally, ensure your attic is free from any food sources, including forgotten snacks or pet food.

Step 3: Use Humane Methods to Encourage the Squirrels to Leave

Squirrels are creatures of habit, and once they’ve made a nest in your attic, it may be tough to get them to leave on their own. However, there are humane ways to encourage them to find a new home. 

Install a One-Way Door

One of the most effective methods is to install a one-way door or exit funnel. This allows squirrels to leave your attic but prevents them from getting back inside. You can either purchase a one-way door or make one using hardware cloth or metal mesh. The door should be placed over the entry point where the squirrels are entering. It’s important to do this when you’re sure no squirrels are inside, as trapping them inside could lead to stress or death.

Make the Attic Uncomfortable

Squirrels prefer quiet, dark spaces for nesting. To make your attic less inviting:

• Play Loud Noises: Squirrels don’t like loud, sudden noises. You can play a radio or leave a loudspeaker on in the attic to disrupt their peace.
• Use Squirrel Repellents: Some natural repellents, like peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, or garlic, can deter squirrels. Simply soak cotton balls with these oils and place them around the attic where you’ve seen activity.
• Use Motion-Activated Lights: These lights can scare squirrels and other pests away. Motion-activated devices that emit a bright flash or sound can help deter them from coming back.

Close Off Access Points

Once the squirrels have left, it’s crucial to seal off all potential entry points. Use steel mesh or hardware cloth to cover any holes or cracks you found in your inspection. Be sure to secure the mesh tightly, as squirrels are strong and will attempt to chew through anything that’s not secure. If you have a chimney, install a chimney cap to keep them from entering through there.

Step 4: Call a Professional if Needed

If you’re not comfortable handling the situation yourself or if the squirrels don’t leave on their own, it’s time to call in a professional pest control service. There are many licensed experts in Calgary who specialize in wildlife removal and can safely remove squirrels from your attic.

These experts can safely trap and relocate squirrels, ensuring they don't return. Additionally, they can inspect your home for any other possible access points and provide advice on keeping your attic squirrel-free.This is the best option if you suspect that there may be babies or a larger infestation.

Step 5: Prevent Future Infestations

Once the squirrels are out and your attic is secure, you’ll want to take extra steps to prevent future infestations. Here are a few maintenance tips:

• Regular Roof Inspections: Make it a habit to check your roof annually, especially after Calgary’s harsh winters. Look for missing shingles, gaps, or any other signs of wear. You may also want to consider installing squirrel-proof ridge caps to prevent entry at the peak of your roof.
• Seal Gaps with Steel Mesh: For any holes or cracks around your attic or roof, use steel mesh or hardware cloth. These materials are much harder for squirrels to chew through compared to wood or plastic.
• Keep Tree Branches Trimmed: As mentioned earlier, squirrels use tree branches to access your roof. Keep branches at least 6 feet away from your home to limit their access.
• Use Squirrel-Proof Barriers: You can install squirrel-proof mesh around your vents, chimneys, and eaves to make sure squirrels can’t find an entry point.

Conclusion

Getting squirrels out of your attic in Calgary requires a combination of inspection, removal, and prevention. By following these detailed steps, you can protect your home from squirrel damage and ensure your attic remains safe and secure. From sealing entry points to removing attractants and using humane methods, these actions will make it much harder for squirrels to make your attic their home.

Remember, if you’re ever unsure or dealing with a larger infestation, don’t hesitate to call a local expert in wildlife removal. Keeping your home squirrel-free is essential to maintaining a comfortable living environment for you and your family in Calgary's unique climate. Stay vigilant and proactive to ensure your attic remains squirrel-free year-round.