If you’ve ever heard mysterious scurrying or scratching sounds in your attic during the night, flying squirrels might be the culprits. While these nocturnal animals are fascinating to watch in the wild, they can become a serious nuisance when they take up residence in your home. At Critter Control of Southern Maine, we help homeowners understand and address flying squirrel issues with safe, effective solutions.
What Are Flying Squirrels?
Despite their name, flying squirrels don’t actually fly—they glide. A special membrane called the patagium stretches between their front and back legs, allowing them to leap and glide distances of over 100 feet between trees. In Maine, two types of flying squirrels are found: the Northern flying squirrel and the smaller Southern flying squirrel.
These animals are active at night, which can make them hard to detect until signs of their presence—like nighttime noise, droppings, or chewed wires—start to appear.
Why They Invade Homes
Flying squirrels are especially drawn to attics, walls, and crawlspaces for warmth, safety, and proximity to food sources. They commonly gain entry through small roofline gaps, soffits, vents, or broken screens—entry points often no wider than a golf ball.
In colder months, they may form communal nests in attics to stay warm. Once inside, they can cause extensive damage by chewing on wood, insulation, and electrical wiring, which can even create fire hazards.
Problems They Can Cause
Though small, flying squirrels can cause significant issues once inside your home. Their nocturnal activity often leads to sleep disruptions, as homeowners may hear scratching, scurrying, or thumping noises during the night. These animals are also known for damaging insulation, chewing through wood and wiring, and creating messy nests in attics and walls. Chewed wires are not just a nuisance—they pose a real fire risk. Additionally, their droppings can carry bacteria and contaminate attic spaces, contributing to poor indoor air quality. Over time, the combination of structural damage and health hazards can lead to costly repairs and potential safety concerns.
Signs You Have Flying Squirrels
Look for these common signs around your home:
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Scurrying sounds in the attic or walls, especially at night
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Small droppings that resemble grains of rice
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Nesting materials like shredded insulation
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Greasy rub marks near entry points
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Chewed wood, wires, or siding
What Homeowners Can Do
If you suspect flying squirrels in your home, it’s important not to attempt removal on your own. These animals are quick, elusive, and protected by wildlife regulations. Instead, follow these steps:
Seal Entry Points: Once squirrels are removed, sealing gaps in the roofline and eaves is crucial to prevent re-entry.
Trim Tree Branches: Keep tree limbs trimmed away from the roof to reduce access points.
Store Food Securely: Birdseed, pet food, and garbage should be tightly sealed and stored indoors.
Call a Professional: Our team at Critter Control of Southern Maine specializes in humane removal, prevention, and repair solutions.
Professional Help for Lasting Relief
Flying squirrels are clever and persistent, but Critter Control of Southern Maine has the tools and experience to safely handle infestations. We perform detailed inspections, use humane exclusion methods, and provide permanent repairs to keep your home protected long-term.