Squirrels are often viewed as harmless woodland creatures, delighting many with their playful behavior in parks and gardens. However, when these furry intruders make their way into Burnaby homes, the situation shifts from charming to concerning. The need for squirrel removal in Burnaby is not only about evicting a nuisance—it's about safeguarding property, health, and peace of mind.
Squirrels are known to infiltrate attics, wall cavities, chimneys, and even basements in search of food and shelter. Once inside, they gnaw on wires, tear through insulation, and bring in other unwelcome pests. Homeowners are often shocked at how quickly the damage escalates, making professional intervention not just helpful, but essential.
Where squirrels were once strictly forest dwellers, urbanization has brought them closer to residential communities. In Burnaby, squirrels frequently leap from nearby trees to rooftops or climb power lines to access homes. They’re attracted by the warmth of attics and the availability of food in trash bins or pet feeders.
Their nesting habits are especially destructive. A squirrel can chew through shingles, wood, and even plastic to create an entry point. Once inside, they often shred insulation or stored fabrics to build nests. Mating twice a year, they can produce litters of up to eight, quickly increasing the infestation.
If you're unsure whether squirrels have moved into your home, there are several key signs to watch for:
Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings, especially early in the morning or at dusk
Chewed wires, wood, or ductwork
Droppings or urine stains in attics
Visible holes in roof eaves, soffits, or vents
A foul smell caused by squirrel waste or deceased animals
Early detection of these symptoms makes removal much easier. Ignoring them, however, could lead to costly structural repairs or even fire hazards due to damaged wiring.
Homeowners might attempt DIY solutions—setting traps, using noise repellents, or sealing off entry points—but these often fail. Trapping a squirrel without understanding its nesting pattern can leave babies behind, which can result in noise, odor, and even pest-related health issues. Worse, improper sealing can trap live animals inside your home, escalating the damage.
Professional squirrel removal in Burnaby goes beyond removing the visible squirrel. Experts identify all access points, safely evict adult and juvenile squirrels, and implement exclusion techniques to prevent re-entry. Additionally, professionals adhere to wildlife laws and humane practices, ensuring both the animal and your home are treated responsibly.
Squirrels can spread disease through their droppings, saliva, and nesting materials. While not as directly dangerous as rats, they can transmit leptospirosis, salmonella, and parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites. Their droppings can also cause respiratory issues when dried particles become airborne.
Structurally, they pose a greater threat. A squirrel’s teeth never stop growing, so they constantly gnaw to file them down. Electrical wiring is a common target, and chewed wires can result in electrical outages or fires. In some Burnaby homes, squirrel-related incidents have required thousands in repairs due to fire and insulation destruction.
While squirrels can invade homes year-round, infestations peak during early spring and late fall. In spring, they seek warm, dry areas to give birth and raise young. In fall, they look for nesting sites to survive the winter. Recognizing this pattern is important for homeowners to proactively prepare or seek help.
Preventative inspections during these seasons can help detect early signs of entry or vulnerabilities. Pest control professionals often recommend tree trimming, chimney caps, and attic vent covers during these periods.
When squirrels enter your home, they often create openings that are later exploited by other pests. One common co-intruder is the ant, especially carpenter ants, which are attracted to moist, damaged wood that squirrels often leave behind. This ties into previous pest concerns in Burnaby, where ant pest control has been essential in maintaining structural safety. When squirrels damage roofing or chew into damp wood, they inadvertently attract these insects.
This chain reaction underscores the importance of holistic pest control. Addressing one issue, like a squirrel infestation, can prevent a broader pest ecosystem from thriving in your home.
Removing squirrels is only half the battle—keeping them out for good is the ultimate goal. This includes:
Sealing all potential entry points, especially in attics and roof lines
Installing one-way doors that allow squirrels to exit but not re-enter
Using galvanized steel mesh over vents and chimneys
Pruning tree branches that reach within 6–8 feet of your roof
Removing bird feeders or securing trash bins to reduce food sources
Preventive maintenance paired with seasonal inspections is the most effective long-term solution for homeowners in Burnaby.
Choosing a pest control provider requires more than checking a business directory. Look for a company with:
Local experience and reviews from Burnaby residents
Humane removal certifications
Transparent pricing with post-removal follow-up services
Wildlife exclusion expertise
Emergency response capabilities
Professionals who specialize in urban wildlife management offer the safest and most sustainable solutions.
Squirrels may look cute, but once inside your home, they become a threat to your health, safety, and wallet. From structural damage to hidden nests and even fire risks, squirrels are best handled by professionals. Whether you’re hearing unusual attic noises or seeing chewed wires, acting swiftly is crucial.
Burnaby homeowners deserve peace of mind. With expert techniques, humane trapping, and comprehensive exclusion services, Knockout Pest Control is your go-to provider for trusted squirrel removal in Burnaby. Their team doesn’t just get rid of the problem—they make sure it never returns.
Visit knockoutpest.ca to schedule a home inspection today. Protect your home with the power of Knockout Pest Control.