Understanding the Squirrel Life Cycle and Signs of an Attic Infestation

Acorn Wildlife Professional Wildlife Removal in New Jersey

Introduction

Squirrels are a common sight across New Jersey, and while they may seem harmless scampering through trees, they can become a major nuisance when they nest in attics. Their life cycle plays a crucial role in determining when infestations are most likely to occur. Understanding squirrel behavior helps homeowners identify the signs of an active squirrel nest before damage is done.

Squirrel Life Cycle: Why They Invade Your Home

Squirrels follow a predictable breeding and nesting pattern, making early spring and late summer peak seasons for attic infestations.

1. Mating Season (Late Winter & Summer)

• January – February: First breeding season begins.

• June – July: Second breeding season occurs.

• Female squirrels seek warm, safe spaces to give birth—leading them to attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces.

2. Birth & Nesting (Spring & Fall)

• After a gestation period of ~40–45 days, mother squirrels give birth to 2–5 babies (kits).

• March – April and August – September are peak times for squirrel litters.

• Babies remain in the nest for up to 8 weeks, meaning homeowners may hear persistent noises during this time.

3. Juvenile Exploration (8–12 Weeks Old)

• Young squirrels begin exploring and chewing, increasing attic damage.

• They can create gnaw marks on wires, insulation damage, and entry holes.

4. Adult Dispersal (Late Spring & Fall)

• Once young squirrels leave the nest, some remain in the same attic if food sources are nearby.

• Unattended nests can attract additional rodents or secondary wildlife infestations.

How to Know If Squirrels Are Nesting in Your Attic

Since squirrel nesting follows predictable patterns, watch for these key signs:

1. Scratching & Rustling Sounds

• Noise is most active in the early morning or late afternoon, when squirrels move around their nest.

• Sounds often come from ceilings, walls, vents, or eaves.

2. Visible Entry Points

• Look for small holes, gaps, or loose shingles around your roofline.

• Common entry sites include attic vents, soffits, and fascia boards.

3. Droppings & Nesting Material

• Squirrel droppings resemble dark grains of rice and often appear in attics or near insulation.

• Nests are made of leaves, shredded insulation, paper, and fabric scraps.

4. Chew Marks on Wires & Wood

• Squirrels gnaw constantly to trim their teeth, causing significant damage.

• Look for frayed electrical wires, bite marks on wooden beams, or chewed insulation.

5. Strong Odors or Stains

• If a squirrel gets trapped and dies inside your attic, it can produce an intense odor.

• Urine stains may appear on ceilings or walls if the infestation has persisted for weeks.

What to Do if You Have Squirrels in Your Attic

Ignoring a squirrel nest can lead to costly damage and potential fire hazards from chewed wiring. Follow these steps:

✅ Confirm the Infestation: Use motion-activated cameras or inspect attic spaces for signs.✅ Do Not Seal Entry Points Immediately: Baby squirrels may still be inside—trapping them can lead to stronger odors and worsening damage.✅ Contact a Professional Removal Service: Acorn Wildlife specializes in humane squirrel removal and exclusion.✅ Install Prevention Barriers: Seal entry points only after all wildlife has been removed.✅ Schedule an Inspection: Regular checks prevent future invasions during peak breeding seasons.

Professional Wildlife Removal in New Jersey

At Acorn Wildlife, we offer expert squirrel removal and exclusion services, ensuring your home remains protected from costly infestations. Our humane removal techniques guarantee that squirrels are relocated safely without harm.

🚨 Suspect a squirrel nest in your attic?📞 Call Acorn Wildlife today for a free consultation!

📍 Serving Mount Laurel, NJ, and surrounding areas