Understanding Your Squirrel Problem
You hear strange scratching sounds in your ceiling at night. You notice small holes appearing near your roof. Those are classic signs of uninvited furry guests. Squirrels love Toronto homes because our attics are warm and safe. They especially enjoy making nests during cold Canadian winters. We at Pestiseed Pest Control see this problem every single day. These cute critters might look harmless in your backyard.
A simple trap won’t solve your problem long term. You need to find all the squirrel entry points around your home. Professional squirrel pest control involves sealing these holes properly. We use special materials that squirrels cannot chew through. The best method is installing a one way exclusion door. This clever device lets squirrels leave but stops them from getting back in. Squirrel extermination sounds harsh, but we focus on humane methods. We never harm the animals during removal. Toronto homeowners trust us because we fix the root problem. We don’t just remove the squirrels and leave.
Types of Squirrels in Your Area
Understanding which squirrel species lives in your Toronto home helps with effective squirrel removal. Each type behaves differently and requires specific wildlife removal strategies. Gray squirrels are the troublemakers we see most often in Toronto attics. These medium sized critters love warm spaces and create serious problems. Red squirrels are smaller but much more aggressive than their gray cousins. Flying squirrels come out at night and surprise homeowners with strange sounds. Fox squirrels are the biggest of the bunch and cause major damage. At Pestiseed Pest Control, we handle all four types with proven squirrel pest control methods.
Gray Squirrels
Gray squirrels rule Toronto neighborhoods and love breaking into attics. These bushy tailed bandits weigh about one pound and measure 15-20 inches long. They’re active during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon. We’ve seen them turn expensive insulation into messy squirrel nesting materials. They also gnaw on chewed electrical wires, creating serious fire hazards. Baby squirrels arrive twice yearly, usually in March and August. Mother squirrels become extra protective when babies are present in the attic. These clever animals remember food sources and return year after year. Professional squirrel extermination works better than DIY attempts for gray squirrels.
Red Squirrels
Red squirrels are tiny terrors with big attitudes and fierce territorial instincts. They’re smaller than gray squirrels but way more aggressive and vocal. Red squirrels make loud chattering sounds that drive homeowners absolutely crazy. These rust colored critters defend their space against other squirrels and even humans. They create multiple nests and move between them throughout the season. Red squirrels also damage attic insulation and chew through wooden beams easily. Their sharp teeth work like tiny saws on electrical wires and cables. Red squirrels are incredibly fast and difficult to catch with standard traps. They learn quickly and avoid live trap setups after one failed attempt. Baby squirrels in this species are born in spring and sometimes fall. Pestiseed Pest Control uses specialized techniques to handle these feisty troublemakers safely.
Flying Squirrels
Flying squirrels surprise Toronto homeowners because they come out only at night. These adorable acrobats don’t actually fly but glide between trees gracefully. They’re much smaller than gray or red squirrels at just 10 inches long. Flying squirrels make soft chirping sounds instead of loud scratching noises. Most people don’t realize they have flying squirrels until major damage appears. These nocturnal visitors create the same problems as daytime squirrel species.
They tear up attic insulation to build cozy winter nests for families. Chewed electrical wires become dangerous fire risks from their constant gnawing habits. Flying squirrels travel in groups, so you rarely have just one visitor. They use tiny entry points that other squirrels cannot fit through easily. Baby squirrels of this species arrive in late spring inside the attic. Finding and sealing all entry holes proves tricky with these sneaky creatures. Pestiseed Pest Control knows exactly where flying squirrels hide during daytime hours.
Fox Squirrels
Fox squirrels are the giants of the squirrel world in Toronto areas. They weigh up to two pounds and measure over 20 inches long. Their size means they cause bigger problems and more expensive damage quickly. Fox squirrels have rusty bellies and grayish backs with bushy tails. They’re less common in Toronto but appear more often in suburban neighborhoods. Fox squirrels rip through attic insulation faster than smaller squirrel species. Their powerful jaws easily chew through roof materials and create large holes. Chewed electrical wires become major hazards when fox squirrels set up shop.
Fox squirrels are bold and sometimes aggressive when protecting their young ones. Baby squirrels in this species need more space than other types. Standard live trap equipment often fails because of their substantial size. Pestiseed Pest Control has heavy duty equipment designed specifically for larger squirrels.
Signs You Have Squirrels in Your Home
You might have uninvited guests. Squirrels in attic spaces are more common than you think here in Toronto. These furry troublemakers love our warm homes during cold Canadian winters. The signs are always the same. Let’s help you figure out if you’re dealing with a rodent infestation. Catching the problem early saves you money and stress. A wildlife control specialist can spot these clues instantly. But you can learn to recognize them too.
Knowing what to look for makes squirrel control much easier. Some signs are obvious while others hide in plain sight. We always tell homeowners to trust their instincts. If something seems off, it probably is. Professional squirrel control starts with identifying the problem correctly. These critters work fast and multiply faster. Your home deserves protection from fascia board damage and worse. Ready to become a squirrel detective? Let’s go through each warning sign together.
Strange Noises
That’s typically squirrels waking up for breakfast. They’re most active during early morning and late afternoon. The scampering sounds like tiny feet running across wood. Squirrel exclusion often starts when families can’t sleep anymore. We get calls about chewing noises that drive people crazy. Squirrels gnaw constantly to keep their teeth short. They’ll chew through wood, plastic, and even electrical wires. Listen near your roof vent screening areas for these sounds.
Visible Damage to Your Property
Walk around your Toronto home and look up carefully. Check for holes chewed through your wooden siding. Look at your soffits for gnaw marks or gaps. These clever animals can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Soffit repair is one of our most common services. Missing shingles or damaged roof edges are red flags. Squirrels often tear apart roof vent screening to get inside. Torn insulation visible from outside means they’re already moved in.
Squirrel Droppings and Urine Stains
Squirrel droppings hazards are real and should concern every homeowner. The droppings look like dark brown pellets about half an inch long. You’ll find them in corners of your attic or garage. Fresh droppings appear moist and dark while old ones turn gray. Urine stains create yellow or brown marks on wood and insulation. The smell gets stronger as the infestation grows bigger. These waste materials can carry diseases harmful to your family.
Nesting Materials in Your Attic
Squirrels build cozy nests using whatever they find available. Shredded insulation scattered across your attic floor is suspicious. They also collect leaves, twigs, and paper for their homes. We’ve found nests made from torn cardboard and fabric scraps. These nests usually sit in quiet corners away from disturbances. Female squirrels create larger nests when preparing for babies.
Health and Safety Risks of Squirrel Infestations
Squirrels in attic spaces create serious dangers for Toronto homeowners. These furry intruders bring hidden health risks that many people don’t realize. Professional squirrel removal protects your family from harmful diseases and expensive home repairs. Squirrel control isn’t just about noise. It’s about keeping your loved ones safe and healthy.
We’ve seen countless homes damaged by rodent infestation over the years. The waste piles up fast in attics and wall spaces. Wildlife control specialist teams wear protective gear when cleaning contaminated areas. Your regular dust mask won’t protect you from these dangerous particles.
Diseases Squirrels Carry
Squirrels spread several scary diseases to humans and pets. Rabies is the most feared illness from wildlife bites. Leptospirosis comes from their urine soaking into insulation and wood. Squirrel exclusion methods prevent these disease risks from happening. Pest management professional services include health risk assessments during inspections. Your family deserves protection from these invisible threats.
Fire Hazards from Chewed Wires
Chewed electrical wires cause house fires more often than most people think. Squirrels have teeth that never stop growing throughout their lives. They gnaw on wires to keep their teeth trimmed down. One Toronto homeowner lost their entire garage to a wire fire. Exposed wires spark and ignite insulation materials quickly and dangerously. Humane wildlife removal stops this fire risk before disaster strikes.
Structural Damage to Your Home
Squirrels destroy expensive parts of your house structure daily. They tear apart roof vent screening to create entry points. Chimney cap installation becomes necessary after they damage the original caps. Soffit repair costs hundreds of dollars per damaged section. Fascia board damage weakens your roof’s edge and lets water inside. We’ve pulled out garbage bags full of shredded insulation from attics.
Parasites and Fleas from Squirrels
These rodents carry armies of parasites into your living spaces. Fleas jump off squirrels and infest your carpets and furniture. Ticks spread Lyme disease to family members and beloved pets. Mites cause itchy skin rashes that last for weeks. We treated one home where fleas had spread to every room. Squirrel relocation laws in Ontario require humane trapping by licensed professionals. DIY removal often makes parasite problems worse instead of better.
How Squirrels Get Into Your Home?
Squirrels are sneaky little acrobats that can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. These clever critters need just a two inch gap to enter your home. Your roof is basically an open invitation to them. They treat your house like their personal playground. Most homeowners don’t realize how many weak spots their homes have.
Common Entry Points Squirrels Love
Roof vents are like open doors for squirrels in Toronto homes. They chew through the thin plastic screening in minutes. We replace damaged roof vent screening with heavy-duty metal mesh during every job. Soffit repair is one of our most common services for homeowners. A proper chimney cap installation by a wildlife control specialist blocks this entry completely. Fascia board damage creates perfect squirrel doorways that homeowners miss entirely. Gaps around pipes and cables are surprisingly common entry points. Squirrels gnaw these spots wider until they fit through easily.
Small Gaps Become Big Problems
Squirrels don’t need much space to break into your home. They can flatten their bodies remarkably well to squeeze through tight spots. A hole the size of a loonie is enough for them. Their powerful teeth make small gaps bigger within hours of discovery. We’ve pulled out chunks of wood from desperate squirrel gnawing attempts. Toronto’s older homes often have settling cracks squirrels exploit easily. Humane wildlife removal means finding every single gap they’re using to enter. You might patch one hole only to find they’ve made three more. Missing even one entry point means they’ll be back next week. Squirrel relocation laws in Ontario require proper exclusion before any trapping happens.
Trees Give Squirrels the Perfect Launch Pad
Tree branches are basically highways that deliver squirrels to your roof. Any branch within eight feet of your house is too close. Squirrels can jump surprisingly far when they’re motivated by shelter. We’ve watched them leap from branches ten feet away during inspections. Trimming branches back is essential for long term squirrel exclusion success. Overhanging limbs let them bypass all your ground level defenses completely. They run along power lines like tightrope walkers heading straight for your attic. Even nearby fences become launching points if trees touch them first.
Professional Squirrel Removal Process That Work
Squirrel removal doesn’t have to be cruel or complicated. We’ve helped hundreds of Toronto families deal with unwanted attic guests. The best way to remove squirrels is always the humane way. These furry troublemakers deserve respect even when they’re wrecking your home. Let’s talk about methods that actually work without harming these clever critters.
Professional wildlife control specialists use proven techniques that keep everyone safe. Squirrel exclusion is our top priority when dealing with infestations.
One Way Exclusion Doors
These special doors are magic for getting squirrels out permanently. The door lets squirrels leave but blocks them from coming back inside. We install these after finding every single entry point in your home. Seal entry holes first before putting up the exclusion door. This forces squirrels to use only one exit we control. The process takes about three to seven days to complete. Squirrels leave naturally to find food and water during daytime hours. They can’t figure out how to push back through the door. This method works great unless you have baby squirrels in attic spaces. Mother squirrels will damage your home trying to reach trapped babies. We always check for nests before using this technique on homes.
Live Trapping and Relocation
Live trap squirrels when exclusion doors won’t work for your situation. We set up cages near the spots where squirrels enter daily. Peanut butter and nuts make perfect bait for catching these animals. Check traps twice daily so squirrels don’t get too stressed out. Once caught, we relocate them far from your Toronto neighbourhood safely. Tree trimming prevention stops them from using branches as highways later. Most squirrels adapt well to new forest locations within days.
Natural Squirrel Repellents
We’re honest with Toronto homeowners about what actually works here. Most natural repellents are complete wastes of your hard earned money. Squirrels laugh at mothballs, ultrasonic devices, and predator urine sprays. Bright lights and loud radios might work for a day or two. Then squirrels just get used to the noise and light. The only natural method that helps is removing food sources completely. Take down bird feeders and clean up fallen fruit from trees. Trim branches so squirrels can’t jump onto your roof easily. These steps support professional removal but don’t replace it at all. Save your money for real solutions that guarantee results every time.
The Professional Squirrel Removal Process
When you need squirrel removal in Toronto, hiring a wildlife control specialist is the best way to remove squirrels safely. We have helped hundreds of families get their homes back from these furry invaders. Our team knows exactly what to look for and how to fix the problem for good.
Professional squirrel removal follows a clear five step plan that really works. We start with a thorough inspection of your entire property. Then we find every single hole where squirrels are sneaking in. Next comes the actual removal using humane squirrel removal methods that do not hurt the animals. After that, we repair all the damage they caused and clean up the mess. Finally, we make sure they can never come back with our prevention work and warranty protection.
Step 1: Complete Home Inspection
Our pest management professional team examines your whole house from top to bottom. We check the roof, attic, walls, and even the basement. We take photos of everything we find so you can see the damage. We also listen for scratching sounds and look for entry holes. This inspection usually takes about an hour to complete properly. We write down every problem we discover during the visit. You get a full report that explains what is happening. This helps us create the perfect removal plan for your home.
Step 2: Identifying All Entry Points
Squirrels can squeeze through holes as small as a baseball. We find every gap, crack, and opening they are using. Common spots include roof vents, soffit areas, and chimney tops. We also check where tree branches touch your roofline. Sometimes squirrels chew new holes to create their own doors. We mark each entry point with tape or spray paint. This makes sure we do not miss any spots. We count how many squirrels are living inside based on evidence.
Step 3: Safe Squirrel Removal
We use one way exclusion doors as our main removal tool. These special doors let squirrels leave but not come back in. We install them on the main entry hole after sealing others. Live traps are another option we use when doors will not work. We check traps twice daily to keep squirrels safe and comfortable. Baby squirrels need special care and we remove them by hand. We never separate mothers from their babies during nesting season. All squirrels are relocated far from your property according to Ontario laws.
Step 4: Damage Repair and Cleanup
Once all squirrels are gone, we fix what they destroyed. We replace chewed electrical wires to prevent fire hazards. Damaged insulation gets removed and replaced with fresh material. We repair holes in drywall, wood, and other building materials. We use special disinfectants that kill bacteria and remove odors. Our team wears protective gear during all cleanup work.
Step 5: Prevention and Warranty
The final step keeps squirrels out forever using proven techniques. We seal every entry point with steel mesh and metal flashing. Regular caulk will not work because squirrels chew through it easily. We install chimney caps and vent screens that squirrels cannot remove. We also remove outdoor food sources like unsecured garbage bins. Our work comes with a written warranty that protects you. If squirrels get back in through our repairs, we fix it free. Most companies in Toronto offer one to five year warranties.
Squirrel Entry Points for Good
Sealing Entry Points with Proper Materials
After squirrel removal, we need to seal every hole. Squirrels can squeeze through a gap just two inches wide. They’re like furry little champions when it comes to finding ways in. We’ve seen them slip through the tiniest cracks around Toronto homes. Steel mesh works best for blocking entry points. Hardware cloth is another great option for keeping squirrels out.
Never use spray foam alone because squirrels chew right through it. We always use metal flashing around weak spots on your roof. Soffit repair is crucial because squirrels love these vulnerable areas.
Installing Chimney Caps and Vent Screens
Chimney cap installation stops squirrels from dropping into your home. We see this problem all the time in older Toronto houses. A good stainless steel cap blocks squirrels while letting smoke escape. Roof vent screening protects another common entry point for these critters. Standard builder vents aren’t designed to keep determined squirrels out completely. We replace flimsy screens with heavy duty wire mesh instead.
Dryer vents need special attention because squirrels love the warmth there. Gable vents are like welcome signs for squirrels without proper screening. We secure all vent covers with screws that squirrels can’t remove. Ridge vents sometimes need extra protection with galvanized steel mesh.
Squirrel Removal Costs and Pricing
Squirrel removal prices in Toronto vary based on your specific situation. Price starts from $99 for basic inspections and simple jobs. The final cost depends on how many squirrels are living in your home. It also depends on how much damage they have caused. We’ve seen cases where a single squirrel caused minimal damage. Those jobs cost around $200 to $400. Other times, families of squirrels nested for months and chewed through wires. Those situations required extensive wildlife removal work and repairs costing $1,500 or more.
The good news is that investing in humane squirrel removal saves you money long term. We use proven squirrel exclusion methods that keep them out permanently. DIY attempts often fail because people miss hidden entry points. Then squirrels just come back within weeks. Our team seals every vulnerable spot on your roof and walls. We guarantee our work so you won’t pay twice for the same problem. Emergency services cost slightly more but prevent additional damage. Most Toronto insurance policies don’t cover removing squirrels from home services unfortunately. However, they may cover the electrical or structural repairs after removal. Always ask your provider before hiring any company. Getting quotes from three different services helps you find fair pricing.
How to Choose the Best Squirrel Control Service in Toronto?
Finding the right company for squirrel removal can feel overwhelming. You want someone who knows how to remove squirrels from home safely and for good. Here’s what Toronto homeowners need to look for. A great company uses humane squirrel control methods that don’t harm animals. Professional squirrel removal experts understand squirrel exclusion techniques that keep these critters out permanently. They don’t just catch squirrels and leave. They seal entry holes so new ones can’t sneak back in. At Pestiseed Pest Control, we’ve helped hundreds of Toronto families deal with unwanted furry visitors.
Look for Licensed and Insured Companies
Always check if the company has proper licenses. Insurance protects your home if something goes wrong during removal. Licensed companies follow Ontario wildlife regulations. They know which removal methods are legal in Toronto. Ask to see their insurance certificate before signing anything. A legitimate company will gladly show you their credentials. Don’t trust anyone who can’t prove they’re insured. Your home is too important to risk with unlicensed workers.
Check Reviews and Experience
Read what other Toronto customers say about the company. Google reviews tell you if they show up on time. Look for comments about their cleanup work and customer service. Companies with 5+ years experience know squirrel behavior patterns. They’ve seen every trick these rodents use to get inside homes. Experience matters when dealing with baby squirrels in attics. Newer companies might miss important entry points on your roof.
Ask About Their Removal Methods
Good companies explain their process before starting work. They should mention one way doors or live trapping options. Never hire someone who uses poison or cruel traps. Ask how they handle baby squirrels found during removal. The best services inspect your entire home first. They create a custom plan based on your specific problem. Make sure they include attic cleanup in their quote.
Warranty and Guarantee Questions to Ask
A confident company offers guarantees on their work. Ask how long their warranty lasts after removal. What happens if squirrels return within the warranty period. Do they come back for free to fix the problem? Get everything in writing before work begins. Some companies guarantee their work for one year or more. The warranty should cover both removal and all repairs. This protects you from paying twice for the same issue.
Seasonal Squirrel Activity and Behavior
Squirrels are busy creatures all year round in Toronto. Each season brings different challenges for homeowners.Knowing when squirrels are most active makes professional squirrel removal more effective.
The seasons affect how we remove squirrels from home properties. Different times of year mean different squirrel behaviors. Humane squirrel removal methods change based on the season.
Spring
Spring is breeding time for Toronto squirrels. Female squirrels have babies between March and May. They search for warm, safe nesting spots. Your attic becomes their nursery.
Mother squirrels are protective and aggressive during this time. We hear more scratching sounds in spring. Baby squirrels make high pitched noises. This is the trickiest season for removal.
Summer
Summer squirrels are constantly on the move. They spend most daylight hours outside gathering food. Your attic stays quiet during hot afternoons. Early morning and evening bring the most activity.
Squirrels collect nuts, seeds, and berries all summer long. They’re building up fat reserves for winter. This is actually the best time for removal. Adults leave frequently to forage.
Fall
Fall turns squirrels into home improvement experts. September through November is preparation season. They’re searching for cozy winter spots. Squirrels chew new entry points during fall.
You’ll see increased activity around your roofline. Acorns and nuts get stored in your attic. Fall squirrels are determined and focused.
They know winter is coming. This creates urgency for homeowners too. Don’t wait until winter to address the problem. Fall is your last chance for easier removal.
Winter
Winter is peak season for attic invasions in Toronto. December through February brings desperate squirrels. Cold temperatures drive them indoors. Your warm attic is perfect shelter.Multiple squirrel families might move in together. We get the most emergency calls during winter. Heating vents attract squirrels like magnets. Snow and ice make outdoor nesting impossible.
Winter removal is more complex but necessary. Squirrels cause serious damage when trapped inside. They chew through insulation and wires constantly. The good news is they’re easier to locate.
Our Squirrel Removal Service Areas
We proudly serve Toronto and the surrounding GTA with expert squirrel removal services. Our team covers every neighbourhood from downtown condos to suburban homes. Whether you’re in North York, Etobihan, Scarborough, or Mississauga, we’ve got you covered. Squirrel control is what we do best, and we’ve been helping Toronto families for years. Our trucks are always nearby and ready to help. We know these furry troublemakers love Toronto’s tree lined streets and cozy attics.
Emergency Squirrel Control (24/7)
Squirrels don’t wait for business hours to invade your home. Neither do we. Our Emergency Squirrel Removal team works around the clock every single day. Call us right away. We’ve rushed out on countless midnight calls to help panicked homeowners. Baby squirrels stuck in your walls at dawn? We’ll be there fast. Our emergency response time is under two hours across Toronto. We never want you to lose sleep over unwanted guests upstairs.
Residential and Commercial Services
We handle squirrel control for homes and businesses across Toronto. Homeowners trust us to protect their attics and roofs safely. Property managers call us for multi unit buildings and condos. Restaurants and offices need squirrel control too, especially near ravines. We’ve cleared out warehouses, schools, shopping plazas, and heritage homes. Every building faces different challenges with these persistent critters. Our team customizes each removal plan to fit your property perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does squirrel removal take?
Most squirrel removal jobs take between three to seven days to complete. We need time to find all entry points first. Then we install one way doors so squirrels can leave safely. Professional squirrel removal teams work faster than doing it yourself. Simple cases might finish in two days. Complex homes with multiple entry points need more time.
Can I remove squirrels myself?
You can try DIY squirrel control but it gets tricky fast. Finding every entry hole is harder than it looks. Missing just one spot means squirrels come right back. Live trapping requires daily checks and proper relocation permits. Baby squirrels hidden in walls complicate everything for homeowners. Most folks call us after their DIY attempts fail. Save yourself the headache and call experts from day one.
Will squirrels leave on their own?
Nope, squirrels never leave a cozy attic voluntarily. Your warm attic beats freezing Toronto winters every time. They have babies there twice per year usually. Food and shelter keep them coming back daily. Hoping they leave wastes valuable time and money. Meanwhile, they keep chewing your expensive electrical wires. Squirrel removal requires active intervention to work properly. Waiting makes the damage worse and repair costs higher.
How do I know if squirrels have babies?
Baby squirrels appear twice yearly in Toronto attics usually. Spring babies arrive between March and April each year. Fall litters come between August and September. Listen for high pitched chirping sounds during these months. Mother squirrels make frequent trips in and out daily.
What happens to trapped squirrels?
Trapped squirrels get relocated to approved natural areas safely. Toronto has strict rules about where we release them. We drive at least five kilometers from your home. Professional squirrel removal companies follow all local wildlife regulations. The squirrels go to wooded areas with food sources. They adapt quickly to their new forest homes. We check traps twice daily to minimize animal stress.
Do ultrasonic repellents work on squirrels?
Ultrasonic devices are basically useless for squirrel removal honestly. We have tested dozens in Toronto homes personally. Squirrels ignore the sounds after just a few days. These gadgets waste your money without solving anything real. Marketing makes big promises but results disappoint every time. Mother squirrels with babies ignore these devices completely.
Get Your Free Squirrel Inspection Today
We’ve helped over 500 Toronto families with squirrel removal this year. Pestiseed Pest Control offers a free inspection with no pressure to buy. Our licensed technicians use thermal cameras to spot hidden entry points. We check your attic, roof vents, and soffits carefully. Then we show you photos of the problem areas. No confusing words or scare tactics from us.
Booking takes two minutes with same day service available. Our certified team has 5+ years of squirrel control experience. We follow Ontario wildlife laws and guarantee our work for five years. During inspection, we explain honest pricing upfront. We’re fully insured for your protection. Call Pestiseed Pest Control today and sleep better tonight.
