Seitz Wildlife Services is your trusted local expert for humane and effective flying squirrel removal in West Chester, PA. The flying squirrel problem can lead to significant property damage and health risks as these creatures often invade attics and other parts of homes. Our team understands the challenges these small, agile rodents can pose when they invade your home or property. With years of experience and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide reliable solutions to keep your home safe and secure.
What Are Flying Squirrels?
Flying squirrels are a common pest for West Chester homeowners. Flying squirrels can be distinguished from other squirrel varieties by their small bodies, grey fur, flattened tail, and buff-colored underbelly. These squirrels have webbed skin on their legs that allow them to glide through the air, allowing them to enter the home from openings in the roof, chimney, and other high locations. Flying squirrels typically live in colonies of six or more. These colonies are often found in attics, where they nest in the insulation. Flying squirrel infestations can lead to contamination and should be removed as soon as they are noticed.
Signs of a Flying Squirrel Infestation
A flying squirrel infestation can be a difficult problem to solve due to their small entry point holes and their ability to glide onto the tallest areas of your home. To solve a flying squirrel infection we would start with a thorough home inspection to locate all possible entry points. Flying squirrel exclusion typically involves protecting all openings along roof edges, ridge vents , gable vents and chimneys, etc. A properly performed exclusion is the most effective long term solution to this common pest.
Signs of a flying squirrel infestation include:
- Scratching or chewing noises in the attic or walls at night
- Small droppings or urine stains
- Chewed insulation, wires, or wood
- Visible entry points around your roofline
If you notice any of these signs, contact Seitz Wildlife Services immediately. Prompt action is crucial to prevent further damage to your property.
Solutions to Flying Squirrel Infestations
Flying squirrel infestations can be a significant problem for homeowners, causing damage to property and posing health risks. To effectively address the issue, it’s essential to employ a combination of removal methods and preventative measures. Here are some solutions to flying squirrel infestations:
- Seal All Entry Points: Flying squirrels can squeeze through tiny openings, so it’s crucial to seal all holes and gaps around vents, chimneys, rooflines, windows, and doors. Use durable materials like steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam to block their entry points.
- Use Live Traps: Live traps are an effective way to capture and remove flying squirrels from your attic or home. Place the traps in areas where you’ve seen the squirrels or where you’ve found signs of their presence, such as droppings or gnaw marks.
- Install One-Way Doors: One-way doors or exclusion devices allow flying squirrels to leave but not re-enter. Install these devices over the main entry point used by the squirrels, and once you’ve confirmed that all squirrels are out, remove the device and seal the entry point.
- Clean and Disinfect: After removing the flying squirrels, thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected area to prevent the spread of diseases. Wear protective gloves and a face mask to prevent exposure to potential diseases.
Our wildlife removal professionals will thoroughly inspect your West Chester home to identify areas of intrusion and perform exclusion, offering a long-term solution against flying squirrels.
Why Professional Help is Necessary for Flying Squirrel Removal
While it’s possible to remove flying squirrels on your own, professional help is often necessary to ensure effective and safe removal. Here are some reasons why:
- Safety Risks: Flying squirrels can carry diseases and parasites, and handling them improperly can pose health risks. Professional wildlife removal services have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle flying squirrels safely.
- Complex Infestations: Flying squirrel infestations can be complex, with multiple entry points and hidden nests. Professional wildlife removal services have the experience and knowledge to identify and address all aspects of the infestation.
- Preventing Re-infestation: Professional wildlife removal services can help prevent re-infestation by identifying and sealing all entry points, removing attractants, and providing guidance on how to prevent future infestations.
Why Flying Squirrel Removal Is Important
Flying squirrels may seem harmless, but their presence can cause significant issues, including:
Property Damage: They chew on wires, insulation, and wood, potentially leading to costly repairs and fire hazards.
Health Risks: Their droppings and urine can carry harmful bacteria and parasites.
Noise Disturbances: Their nocturnal activity can disrupt your sleep and daily life.
Why Choose Seitz Wildlife Services?
- Expertise in Flying Squirrel Behavior: Flying squirrels are nocturnal and highly elusive. Our team has extensive knowledge of their habits, making us well-equipped to locate and remove them effectively.
- Comprehensive Solutions: From identifying entry points to sealing them and implementing preventative measures, we provide a complete service to ensure your property remains squirrel-free.
- Flying Squirrel Control: Effective flying squirrel control requires professional expertise to manage these pests safely and prevent future infestations. We use various methods and tools to achieve permanent control over flying squirrels in residential settings.
- Local Experience: Based in the West Chester area, we are familiar with the unique challenges posed by local wildlife and weather conditions.