Most people might not expect to run into many wildlife issues in the dead of winter. And often you won’t. Especially, where much of the wildlife that we usually encounter are bunkered down for the winter, like skunks and bats.
However, there are still several critters that go about their days in the winter, much as they do in the summer. Now don’t get us wrong, just because there is wildlife hanging around the woods outside of the house, does not necessarily make them a pest. Frankly, many of us enjoy watching the wildlife go about their business from the comfort of our cozy chair by the big picture window. BUT, if they are getting into structures on your property or in your home, and leaving fecal matter, causing damage, and potentially spreading disease… that is a serious problem!  Wildlife issues can escalate quickly and become tough to manage.
So which critters should you look out for this winter?… SQUIRRELS.
Flying Squirrels
Aptly named for the extra skin found between their legs that allow them to glide from tree to tree, flying squirrels often make their homes in the woodlands. However, during the winter, if they can find their way into a warm structure, like a shed, or attic, they will certainly make that space their new winter home. Flying squirrels are nocturnal, and therefore few people will ever see these critters in nature. However, if you begin hearing a racket in your attic at night, it is entirely possible that you have these fellas as new tenants. While they are up there, they may chew through electrical wires (that look like little twigs to them), soil and tear up insulation, drywall and of course keep you awake all night.
RELATED: Attic Tenants: Flying Squirrels
Gray Squirrels
Gray squirrels are very common in New England and prefer woodlands. They are a medium sized tree squirrel, that is usually light gray, with a white belly. Gray squirrels typically forage for nuts, seeds, buds and flowers. Squirrels are an important part of the ecosystem because of their role in seed dispersal. Squirrels hide or bury nuts and seeds to eat in the winter. They often hide more seeds than they will eat. The buried nuts will sprout in new locations. Gray squirrels will typically build dens up in the branches and hollows of trees. That said, they are also well known for using wall voids of homes to seek permanent shelter.
Red Squirrels
Red squirrels are small tree squirrels with a dark red bushy tail and light colored belly. They are mostly found in coniferous forest, where they feed on cones and seeds from the trees. Like with other squirrels, though, if they should find a cozy nook in your attic or walls, and food in your bird feeder, they will certainly set up shop and leave a big mess!
More than just a nuisance
While squirrels can be cute to watch outside your home if these critters make their way inside, it can be a huge issue and mess! Damage can occur to insulation, drywall, and electrical cords when they decide to use these materials to build their nests. Squirrels may also leave behind urine, feces, fur, and food in your home, which can then lead to odors and mold. And if that weren’t enough squirrels could potentially bring in infectious diseases and parasites, like fleas, ticks, and mites.
Attempting to solve these concerns on your own, can also be very challenging and typically will yield poor results. Resulting in stress and frustration, even injury and costly damage. Hiring a professional means you will have peace of mind, an experienced expert, who is licensed, and fully equipped with the tools needed to get the job done.
The Modern Solution
At Modern, we can help you with these wildlife issues from start to finish. Our Wildlife Cleanup and Restoration Services include humane wildlife trapping and removal, sealing entry points, cleaning the affected areas, removing droppings, replacing heavily soiled insulation and applying an environmentally friendly biological cleaner. Our wildlife team is licensed and trained in the humane trapping and removal of wildlife. Our team is committed to resolving your issues quickly, effectively and safely as possible.
Contact Modern Pest Services Wildlife Control team to come out and assess your situation. Our team will not only identify the critter that is reeking havoc; they will put together a plan to make sure your problem is dealt with humanely, so you and your family can have rest and peace of mind.