Flying squirrels may look cute, but when they invade your home, they can cause significant damage and disruption. These nocturnal creatures often go unnoticed until homeowners start experiencing unusual sounds, unpleasant odors, or unexplained damage. Unlike their ground-dwelling relatives, flying squirrel activity includes gliding from trees onto rooftops, squeezing into small gaps, and making nests in attics, crawl spaces, and walls.
At Covenant Wildlife, we specialize in humane and effective wildlife removal. In this article, we’ll help you identify the key signs of flying squirrel activity in your home, why they can be a problem, and what steps you should take to remove them safely.
Understanding Flying Squirrels
Flying squirrels are small, tree-dwelling rodents known for their ability to glide between trees using a skin membrane called a patagium. Unlike other squirrels, they are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. In North America, two common species of flying squirrels invade homes:
- Northern Flying Squirrel – Found in colder climates, primarily in the northern United States and Canada.
- Southern Flying Squirrel – More common in the southeastern United States, including Georgia, Alabama, and Florida.
Both species seek shelter in homes, especially during colder months, and can form colonies of up to 20 or more squirrels in a single attic!
Key Signs of Flying Squirrel Activity in Your Home
Since flying squirrels are active at night and rarely seen during the day, you’ll need to rely on indirect signs to detect their presence. Here are the most common indicators:
1. Nocturnal Noises in the Attic or Walls
Flying squirrels are most active between dusk and dawn, so if you hear noises at night, they could be the cause. Common sounds include:
- Scratching or scurrying in the attic or walls
- Thumping sounds as they land after gliding
- High-pitched chirping or squeaking (communication sounds)
Since flying squirrels travel in groups, the noise can be persistent and loud, especially if a large colony has settled in.
2. Droppings and Urine Stains
Like other rodents, flying squirrels leave behind waste which then can create sanitation issues. You may notice:
- Small, dark droppings (similar to those of mice but slightly larger)
- Yellowish urine stains on ceilings or walls
- A strong, ammonia-like odor from accumulated waste
If you find droppings concentrated in one area, it’s a good indicator that they’ve established a nest nearby.
3. Nests in Attic Insulation
Flying squirrels prefer warm, enclosed areas to build their nests. They often burrow into attic insulation because it creates a cozy space. Signs of nesting activity include:
- Torn or shredded insulation
- Piles of nesting materials such as leaves, twigs, or paper
- Displaced insulation along attic beams or near air ducts
Since flying squirrels often share nests, multiple nests may be found in one attic.
4. Chewed Wires and Structural Damage
Rodents, including flying squirrels, have ever-growing teeth and constantly gnaw on materials to keep them trimmed. This behavior can lead to:
- Chewed electrical wires – creating a fire hazard
- Gnawed wooden beams – compromising attic structures
- Damage to ductwork – causing heating and cooling inefficiencies
If left unchecked, flying squirrels can cause thousands of dollars in repair costs.
5. Entry Points on the Roof or Exterior
Flying squirrels can enter through holes as small as a quarter (about 1 inch in diameter). Common entry points include areas such as:
- Roof vents and soffits
- Gaps in fascia boards or loose shingles
- Chimneys and attic vents
- Holes in siding or eaves
Look for signs of chewed openings or dark stains (from fur oils) around possible entry points.
6. Food Stashes or Gnawed Nuts
Flying squirrels often hoard food in attics or wall spaces. You may find items such as:
- Acorns, nuts, or seeds hidden in insulation or corners
- Partially eaten nuts with chew marks
- Shredded food packaging in storage areas
They may also raid bird feeders, garbage bins, or pet food bowls near your home.
Why Flying Squirrel Activity is a Problem
Although flying squirrels are not aggressive, they can cause numerous problems for homeowners:
- Property Damage: Gnawing on materials such as wires, insulation, and wood can lead to expensive repairs.
- Health Risks: Their droppings and urine can spread bacteria, parasites, and airborne illnesses such as leptospirosis.
- Odor Issues: A large colony can produce strong, musty smells that linger in attics and vents.
- Fire Hazard: Chewed electrical wiring increases the risk of house fires.
Because they multiply quickly and live in groups, a small problem can turn into an infestation in no time.
How to Get Rid of Flying Squirrel Activity Humanely
If you suspect flying squirrel activity in your home, DO NOT attempt to trap or remove them on your own. These animals are protected in many states, and because of this, improper removal can lead to fines or harm to the squirrels. Instead, follow these steps:
1. Contact a Professional Wildlife Removal Service
At Covenant Wildlife, we specialize in safe, humane flying squirrel removal. Our team:
- Identifies entry points and nests
- Uses humane exclusion methods (one-way exit doors)
- Seals up access points to prevent re-entry
- Cleans and sanitizes affected areas
2. Inspect and Seal Entry Points
Once the squirrels are removed, sealing entry points is crucial to prevent another infestation. This may involve tasks such as:
- Repairing soffits, vents, and fascia boards
- Installing metal mesh over openings
- Fixing roof damage
3. Trim Tree Branches Near Your Home
Since flying squirrels use tree branches to access rooftops, trimming back overhanging limbs at least 6-8 feet from your roof can make it harder for them to reach your home.
4. Remove Food Sources
Reducing available food is smart because it discourages flying squirrels from nesting in your attic. Secure food sources by:
- Using squirrel-proof bird feeders
- Sealing trash bins tightly
- Storing pet food indoors
5. Install Deterrents
Using motion-activated lights, ultrasonic deterrents, or natural repellents (such as predator urine) may help discourage flying squirrels from nesting.
Trust Covenant Wildlife for Safe Flying Squirrel Removal
Flying squirrel activity may seem harmless, but they can cause serious damage to your home and pose health risks to your family. At Covenant Wildlife, we specialize in effective and humane wildlife removal. Our experienced team is the best because we will:
- Safely remove flying squirrels from your attic
- Seal entry points to prevent re-infestation
- Sanitize and restore damaged areas
- Provide long-term prevention strategies
If you suspect flying squirrels in your home, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Covenant Wildlife today for a professional inspection and removal service!
Call us now to schedule your appointment!
