Squirrels, a type of rodent, can be spotted quickly due to their frenzied movements, bushy tails, and propensity for hiding nuts in nature. Like everywhere else in the country, squirrels are common in Nashville. They may look cute out in your yard, but these furry creatures can actually pose a nuisance, health threat and damage threat to your home.

Just like similar rodent species such as mice and rats, squirrels seek out warmth and shelter in the winter, looking for food and a place to breed. While they don’t spread serious diseases to humans, they do bite and can cause a lot of expensive property damage. As a homeowner, it’s important to know the threats they pose and how to keep them out of your home.

Habits of Squirrels

The term “tree squirrels” refers to several species, including flying, gray, and fox squirrels. You may think they just eat nuts, but they actually eat meat and plants too. They tend to stockpile fruits, nuts and small insects in the fall as winter approaches so they will have enough food to last them through.

Squirrels typically build nests out of bark, leaves, and twigs, taking shelter in tree holes. Others prefer the warmth and security of buildings such as sheds, garages and houses. You may see or hear evidence of squirrel activity in your attic. They like it up there because of all the insulation, as well as its accessibility from nearby trees. This is why you should keep tree branches trimmed back from your roof so they can’t use them as a gateway.

Threats of Squirrels

When squirrels get into your home, they will likely cause significant property damage that can be expensive to fix. Just like mice, they’ll chew through materials, create holes in siding and nest in insulation. They can even chew through electrical wiring, damaging your electronics, appliances and HVAC system. When nesting in your boxes of old clothing or insulation, they leave urine and feces behind which, apart from leaving a nasty odor, can pose a serious health threat to occupants.

Squirrel Prevention

Follow these tips for keeping squirrels away:

• Place screens on vents and chimney openings
• Seal entry points such as cracks and gaps around windows and doors
• Cut tree limbs back six to eight feet from the roofline
• Dispose of garbage regularly; keep food in a sealed container
• Pick ripe fruit immediately if you have fruit trees in your yard
• Call a Nashville pest control professional right away if you notice evidence of squirrel infestation.

PureGuard Pest Solutions For Rodents

Our residential and commercial pest control services in Nashville can prevent squirrels from causing damage to your property. Our experienced team can come up with a customized prevention schedule for the year so as to keep these pesky rodents at bay throughout all seasons. To book service and to get a free quote, contact us at 615-502-2855.