Flying Squirrels: Your Uninvited Nocturnal Roommates
Flying squirrels are like the ninjas of the squirrel world—stealthy, nocturnal, and surprisingly skilled at gliding. These tiny daredevils use a built-in “squirrel suit” called the patagium to glide from tree to tree. While their aerial antics may seem charming, these rodents can be a real nuisance when they move into your home, uninvited and rent-free.
Why Are Flying Squirrels in My House?
Flying squirrels don’t just glide into your attic for fun—they have very practical reasons for crashing at your place:
Warmth and Safety: Your cozy attic is the squirrel equivalent of a five-star resort. When temperatures drop, they move in for the warmth and protection from predators.
Food Heaven: If you have bird feeders, pet food, or an unsealed trash bin, you might as well hang a “Squirrel Buffet Open 24/7” sign.
Nesting Spots: If natural tree cavities are taken, attics and walls are prime real estate.
Why Do They Live in Groups?
Flying squirrels are social butterflies—or maybe social bats since they’re nocturnal. They form colonies of up to 20 squirrels because it’s warmer to snuggle with friends. Plus, there’s safety in numbers when you’re a small snack-sized creature.
The Bathroom Habits of Flying Squirrels
Yes, even squirrels have a designated bathroom area—called a latrine. Sounds polite, right? Except these “bathrooms” can become a major problem. Piles of feces and urine lead to awful smells and potential health risks. Not to mention, cleaning it up is not exactly a glamorous Saturday afternoon activity.
What Kind of Damage Do They Cause?
While you’re sleeping, flying squirrels are busy moonlighting as demolition experts. Here’s what they can do:
Structural Damage: They chew through siding, eaves, and just about anything else that stands between them and your warm attic.
Electrical Hazards: Squirrels seem to think wires are chew toys. This can lead to short circuits and, in the worst cases, fires.
Insulation Wreckers: Insulation makes for great nesting material. Too bad it’s supposed to keep your house warm.
Why Don’t I Notice Them?
Flying squirrels are nocturnal, which means they’re active while you’re snoozing. You might not even know they’re there until you hear scratching noises in your walls, find droppings, or notice a suspicious stash of nuts in your insulation.
Where Are All These Nuts Coming From?
Flying squirrels are hoarders. They stash nuts and seeds in attics, wall voids, and even your insulation. Outside, they bury their treasure in the ground or store it in tree cavities. If you find random nuts in strange places, congratulations—you’ve been chosen as their food bank.
How Can I Evict These Freeloaders?
While you might admire their acrobatics, it’s best to send flying squirrels packing. Here’s how:
Trim Trees: Overhanging branches are like highways for squirrels. Trim them to keep the critters at bay.
Secure Food Sources: Lock down bird feeders and trash bins like Fort Knox.
Call in the Pros: If the squirrels refuse to leave, it’s time to bring in a professional to safely and humanely remove them.
The Bottom Line
Flying squirrels are fascinating creatures—until they move into your house. By taking some simple precautions, you can keep your home squirrel-free and save yourself a lot of headaches (and repair bills). If you do end up with these nocturnal freeloaders, don’t panic—help is just a phone call away.
Sources
- Pennsylvania State University Extension. “Tree Squirrels.”
https://extension.psu.edu/tree-squirrels - Kansas State University Wildlife Management. “Tree Squirrel Prevention and Control.”
https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/species/tree-squirrels/prevention.html - Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. “Wildlife Damage Management.”
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/damage - Mississippi State University Extension. “Control and Manage Squirrels on Your Property.”
https://extension.msstate.edu/news/extension-outdoors/2015/control-manage-squirrels-your-property
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do flying squirrels enter homes?
Flying squirrels can squeeze through small openings, often as tiny as a quarter-inch. They typically gain access via gaps in roofs, eaves, soffits, vents, or damaged siding. Overhanging tree branches can also provide a direct route to your home.
2. What signs indicate a flying squirrel infestation?
Common indicators include:
Acorns and other nuts stored in the attic or other strange places.
Scratching or scurrying noises in the attic or walls, especially at night.
Droppings resembling those of mice, found in attics or near entry points.
Chewed insulation, wires, or wood.
Nests made of leaves, twigs, and other materials in the attic.
3. Why are flying squirrels considered a nuisance?
Their presence can lead to several issues:
Matting of insulation, reducing a homes energy efficiency.
Structural damage from gnawing on wood and siding.
Fire hazards due to chewing on electrical wiring.
Health risks from droppings and urine, which can harbor diseases.
Unpleasant odors from accumulated waste.
4. Are flying squirrels dangerous to humans or pets?
While they are generally not aggressive, flying squirrels can bite if threatened. Their droppings and urine may carry diseases, posing health risks. Additionally, their gnawing behavior can create fire hazards by damaging electrical wiring.
5. How can I prevent flying squirrels from entering my home?
Preventive measures include:
Sealing all potential entry points, such as gaps in the roofline, eaves, and vents.
Installing chimney caps and vent covers.
Trimming tree branches that overhang or are close to the house.
Keeping bird feeders away from the house and securing trash bins.
6. What should I do if I have flying squirrels in my home?
It’s advisable to contact a professional wildlife removal service to ensure safe and humane removal. Professionals can also help identify and seal entry points to prevent future infestations.
7. Can I use repellents to deter flying squirrels?
Many commercial repellents have limited effectiveness, as flying squirrels can become accustomed to them. Physical exclusion by sealing entry points is the most reliable method to prevent infestations.
8. Do flying squirrels live in colonies?
Yes, flying squirrels are social animals and often live in colonies that can number up to 20 individuals. This communal living provides warmth and protection but can lead to more significant infestations if they enter a home.
9. Are flying squirrels protected by law?
Regulations vary by location. In some areas, flying squirrels are protected, and specific methods must be used for their removal. It’s essential to consult local wildlife authorities or professionals to ensure compliance with local laws.