what do squirrels in attic sound like

2 min read 16-01-2025

Squirrels in your attic? That unsettling scratching and scampering isn't your imagination. Identifying the sounds of attic squirrels is the first step to resolving your wildlife problem. This guide will help you pinpoint those pesky critters and what to do about them.

Common Sounds of Squirrels in the Attic

Squirrels are active animals, and their movements create a variety of noises. Knowing what to listen for is crucial for early detection.

Scuttling and Scrabbling:

This is probably the most common sound. It's a fast, light, repetitive scratching sound as they navigate the attic's rafters, beams, and insulation. Think of tiny claws scrabbling across wood and drywall.

Chewing and Gnawing:

Squirrels have constantly growing teeth. They need to gnaw to keep them down. You'll hear a persistent chewing sound, often accompanied by the snapping of small twigs or the crumbling of wood. They might be chewing on electrical wires, posing a fire hazard.

Thumping and Drumming:

These heavier sounds often occur when squirrels are running across the attic floor or jumping from one area to another. They can also create a drumming sound by rapidly tapping their claws on surfaces. This is particularly noticeable at night.

Squeaking and Chatter:

Squirrels communicate with each other through high-pitched squeaks and chattering sounds. While not always loud, these vocalizations can be heard, especially during mating season or when they are distressed.

Falling Debris:

As squirrels move around, they may dislodge insulation, droppings, or other debris. This can result in rustling sounds, or even a small "thump" as things fall to the attic floor.

Differentiating Squirrel Sounds from Other Noises

It's important to distinguish squirrel sounds from other potential sources of noise in your attic:

Birds: Birds tend to make chirping and tweeting sounds, quite different from the scratching and gnawing of squirrels.
Rats and Mice: Rodents create a higher-pitched squeaking and rustling, often accompanied by more frantic movements. Their droppings are also smaller than squirrels'.
Wind: Strong winds can cause rattling noises in the attic, especially if there are loose shingles or other gaps in the roof.

If you're unsure, it's always best to err on the side of caution and investigate.

What to Do If You Suspect Squirrels in Your Attic

Hearing these sounds regularly strongly suggests a squirrel infestation. Don't ignore it!

Visual Inspection: If possible, carefully inspect your attic for signs of squirrel activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, nests, entry points, and tracks.
Professional Help: Contact a wildlife removal professional. They have the experience and equipment to safely and humanely remove squirrels from your attic. Trying to handle them yourself can be dangerous.
Repair Entry Points: Once the squirrels are removed, seal up any holes or gaps in your roof, soffits, or vents to prevent future infestations.

Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations

Prevention is key to avoiding future problems with squirrels in your attic.

Trim Trees: Keep overhanging tree branches trimmed back from your roofline to eliminate easy access points for squirrels.
Seal Entry Points: Regularly inspect your attic and roof for potential entry points and seal any gaps or holes.
Secure Chimneys: Install chimney caps to prevent squirrels from entering through your chimney.
Remove Food Sources: Remove bird feeders, pet food, and any other food sources that may attract squirrels to your property.

By understanding the sounds squirrels make and taking proactive steps, you can protect your home from these persistent critters. Remember, early detection and professional help are crucial for a successful resolution.