Grey Squirrels
Grey Squirrel Identification
Worldwide, more than 200 species of squirrels thrive in various habitats. In the Northeastern region, grey squirrels are among the most common species. These squirrels are social in nature and often live together, making some of the most obvious and largest nests, often up to 20 feet high in a tree.
Signs of Grey Squirrels
Grey squirrels often seek indoor shelter when the weather cools off or when they are seeking shelter from predators. Some common signs of a grey squirrel infestation include the following:
Large Nests
Grey squirrels build some of the largest squirrel nests. Outdoors, they are often located high in trees, typically near crooks or trunks for stability. Having squirrels outside isn’t a sure sign of indoor trouble, but seeing squirrels nesting on your property is definitely a sign that you should be vigilant in watching for other signs. Additionally, squirrels may build nests in manmade structures like barns or make nests out of insulation and other materials in attics and walls.
Droppings
If you have squirrels inside, you will notice piles of droppings near nesting sites, including attics and crawl spaces. These droppings are usually dark in color and about the size of a grain of rice with pointed ends. Unlike other rodent droppings, they occur in clusters because grey squirrels are latrining animals that use designated spots to relieve themselves.
Damage to Exterior and Interior Spaces
Like all rodents, grey squirrels constantly gnaw on things to help control the continual growth of their teeth. When they infest homes and other buildings, they often gnaw on siding, roofing, wires, insulation, structural elements, and more creating fist-sized holes to gain entry.
Noises
Grey squirrels aren’t quiet animals. In addition to the typical clawing, scratching, and scampering noises they make, you might also hear them chasing each other, which is particularly prominent during mating season.
How Do I Get Rid of Grey Squirrels?
Getting rid of grey squirrels once they have moved in can be tricky. The last thing you want is to seal off potential exits, only to find that a squirrel was trapped and died somewhere inside. That’s why calling a professional is the most advisable action if you think you have an infestation.
Still, prevention is the most effective way to eliminate grey squirrels long-term. Some tips to consider include:
- Limit Food Access: Don’t feed grey squirrels and try to reduce their access to food on the property. Use squirrel-resistant feeders and cover crops with nets or wire mesh.
- Perform Regular Outdoor Maintenance: Grey squirrels often gain access to homes by climbing along tree limbs. Trim all branches back several feet from rooflines and building exteriors to limit access to the building.
- Seal Entry Points: Squirrels can squeeze into relatively small gaps, cracks, and openings. Seal any openings you find, including those around exterior-to-interior utility lines. Consider installing screening on chimneys and vents.
Grey Squirrel Facts
Lifespan
Grey squirrels can live up to 20 years in captivity. However, in the wild, many don’t make it past their first year. Those that survive that long live an average of five to six years.
Food Sources
Grey squirrels love their nuts and seeds, including acorns, beechnuts, and hickory nuts. During warm weather, they also eat fungi, fruit, flowers, and other plants.
Reproduction
Grey squirrels are polygamous in nature. Up to 10 males will chase a single female during mating season. They also have two breeding periods, including one in late winter and another in mid-summer. Litters average anywhere from one to nine babies, who rely on their mothers for two to three months or longer for survival.
Risk of Disease
These creatures can carry a host of diseases, which humans and pets can be susceptible to if scratched or bitten. This includes rabies, tularemia, leptospirosis, salmonella, and ringworm.
Where are grey squirrels found?
Grey squirrels are common throughout the northeast and eastern portion of the continent. They adapt readily to various environments, ranging from rural forests to suburban and urban locations.
When are grey squirrels active?
These squirrels are active year-round, but they exhibit slightly different behavior in warm weather months and winter. From spring through fall, their activity level typically peaks around the hours of sunrise and sunset. During winter, they tend to be more active during the middle of the day.
More Information About Grey Squirrels
Difference Between Grey Squirrels & Flying Squirrels
Prevent Squirrel Damage
Signs of Squirrels in Your Attic
Frequently Asked Questions
Do grey squirrels carry diseases?
Yes. Grey squirrels can carry various disease-causing pathogens. They could also harbor secondary pests like ticks and fleas, which introduce additional disease risks.
Can grey squirrels swim?
Yes, grey squirrels can swim. However, they have limited capabilities and could still drown.
Do grey squirrels hibernate?
No. Grey squirrels remain active throughout the year, although their active times shift to midday during winter.
Are grey squirrels nocturnal?
Unlike flying squirrels, grey squirrels are active during the day.
How do I get rid of grey squirrels from my home?
If grey squirrels have become uninvited houseguests, the safest and most effective option is to call for professional squirrel removal.
