Signs You Have Squirrels in Your Loft – Watford Pest Guide
Hearing scratching or rustling noises in your loft? You could be dealing with squirrels. At Watford Pest Exterminators, we help homeowners identify the early warning signs of squirrel infestations so they can take action quickly. Here’s how to spot if squirrels have made your loft their new home.
Common Signs of Squirrels in Your Loft
- Scratching and gnawing sounds: Squirrels are most active during the day. You may hear them in the morning or evening.
- Droppings: Small, dark droppings scattered across insulation or rafters.
- Chewed wires and wood: Squirrels constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp, often damaging beams and cables.
- Nesting materials: Shredded insulation, paper, or fabric in piles.
- Unpleasant odours: Urine and droppings can create a strong smell in confined spaces.
- Visible entry points: Holes or damage to roof tiles, vents, or fascia boards.
- Sightings of squirrels: Spotting squirrels near your roofline is often a clear sign.
Why It’s Important to Act Quickly
Squirrels may look harmless, but they can cause severe damage to loft insulation, wooden beams, and even electrical wiring — creating a fire risk. Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs and an even larger infestation.
Professional Squirrel Removal in Watford
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to act. Our squirrel extermination service in Watford provides safe, humane trapping and removal, as well as proofing advice to prevent them from returning.
FAQs – Signs of Squirrels in Your Loft
Q1: Are squirrels active at night?
No, they are usually active during the day, unlike rats or mice.
Q2: Can squirrel noises be confused with other pests?
Yes, noises can be mistaken for rats, mice, or birds. A professional inspection confirms the pest.
Q3: What do squirrel droppings look like?
They are small, dark, and cylindrical, often similar to rat droppings.
Q4: Can squirrels chew through wiring?
Yes, and this creates a serious fire hazard if not dealt with quickly.
Q5: How do squirrels get into lofts?
They often enter through broken tiles, fascia gaps, vents, or chimney stacks.
Q6: How many squirrels can live in one loft?
A family of 2–6 squirrels can nest in a single loft space.
Q7: Should I block holes myself?
Not until squirrels are removed. Blocking entry while squirrels are inside can trap them, causing more damage.