If you’ve been hearing scratching, thumping, or scampering noises coming from your attic, you might wonder if squirrels are the culprits and whether they’re active at night. Understanding squirrel behavior is key to knowing what’s happening in your home and how to address it.
Are Squirrels Nocturnal?
No—squirrels are not nocturnal. Most squirrel species, including gray squirrels and red squirrels commonly found in residential areas, are diurnal. This means they are active during the day and rest at night. Their peak activity times are usually early morning and late afternoon when they search for food.
Why You Might Hear Noises at Night
If squirrels are diurnal, why might you hear attic noises at night? There are a few possible explanations:
- Other Wildlife: Animals such as rats, mice, raccoons, or flying squirrels (which are nocturnal) could be responsible.
- Restless Behavior: Squirrels nesting in attics may occasionally shift or stir at night, but consistent nighttime noise usually points to a different animal.
- Multiple Invaders: Sometimes, homeowners have more than one type of pest in the attic.
How to Tell If Squirrels Are in Your Attic
Squirrels leave behind some clear signs:
- Scratching or scampering sounds during the day
- Chewed wires, insulation, or wood
- Droppings in the attic
- Nests made of leaves or insulation materials
- Visible entry holes near eaves, soffits, or rooflines
If the noises occur mainly at night, the invader is more likely a nocturnal animal such as mice, rats, or flying squirrels.
Why Squirrels Choose Attics
Attics provide squirrels with warmth, shelter, and a safe place to raise their young. Unfortunately, their presence can lead to significant damage, from chewing on electrical wiring to tearing apart insulation and creating fire hazards.
What to Do if You Suspect Squirrels
- Observe Timing: Pay attention to when you hear noises—daytime activity strongly suggests squirrels.
- Inspect for Entry Points: Look for holes, chew marks, or droppings near your roof and attic.
- Avoid DIY Trapping: Handling squirrels yourself can be dangerous, and improper trapping may cause legal or ethical issues.
When to Call a Professional
Whether you’re dealing with squirrels or another animal, professional pest control is the safest and most effective option. Experts can properly identify the species, remove them humanely, and secure your attic against future invasions.
How Universal Pest Control Can Help
At Universal Pest Control, we specialize in wildlife removal and prevention. Our team can identify whether squirrels or other pests are causing the noise in your attic, safely remove them, and seal entry points to prevent future problems.
Don’t lose sleep over attic noises. Contact Universal Pest Control today for expert wildlife control and long-term peace of mind.
