Squirrels might look harmless, but once they get inside your home, they can cause serious damage in a short amount of time. Many Chicago homeowners consider trying a do-it-yourself approach to save money, but DIY removal often leads to bigger—and more expensive—problems. When it comes to squirrel removal in Chicago, understanding the risks can help you make a safer and smarter decision for your home.
1. Squirrels Can Be Aggressive When Threatened
A squirrel that feels trapped or cornered may scratch or bite in self-defense. Attempting to catch or handle one without proper training puts you at real risk of injury, especially if there are babies in the nest. Wildlife professionals know how to approach, contain, and remove squirrels safely to avoid any confrontation.
2. DIY Attempts Often Scatter the Problem
Blocking holes too early, installing traps incorrectly, or disturbing a nest can cause squirrels to scatter into new areas of your attic or walls. This often makes the situation worse and more expensive to fix. Professionals follow a strategic process to ensure all squirrels—especially mothers and juveniles—are removed in the correct order.
3. Hidden Entry Points Are Easy to Miss
Chicago homes, especially older ones, have multiple gaps and openings squirrels can use to enter. Homeowners often seal obvious holes but overlook secondary or hidden entry points. As a result, squirrels return immediately, or worse, become trapped inside the walls. Expert wildlife technicians know where these openings are usually found and how to fully secure them.
4. Electrical Fire Hazards
Squirrels are notorious for chewing electrical wiring. Attempting DIY removal without inspecting the attic or crawl space thoroughly can leave unseen damage untouched. Frayed wires create a major fire risk. A licensed wildlife specialist can identify and document damage so it can be repaired before it becomes dangerous.
5. DIY Traps Can Be Illegal or Ineffective
Some traps sold online or in stores are not legal for use in Illinois or require specific placement to be effective. Improper use can lead to unnecessary suffering or accidental capture of non-target animals. Professionals use humane, approved methods that comply with local regulations.
6. The Problem Usually Returns Without Proper Exclusion
Even if you manage to get a squirrel out, the problem isn’t truly solved unless the entry points are sealed and reinforced. Many homeowners attempt basic patchwork repairs that squirrels can easily chew through. Professional exclusion materials are stronger, long-lasting, and designed specifically to withstand wildlife pressure.
7. Long-Term Costs Are Higher With DIY
What starts as a simple squirrel issue can turn into chewed insulation, damaged drywall, contaminated attic spaces, and expensive electrical repairs. The cost of fixing secondary damage often exceeds the price of professional removal—making DIY the more expensive option in the long term.
FAQs: Squirrel Removal & DIY Risks for Chicago Homeowners
1. Is it safe to remove squirrels from my home by myself?
No. DIY removal can lead to injuries, accidental trapping, or increased damage inside your home. Squirrels react aggressively when threatened, making self-removal risky.
2. What happens if I accidentally trap a squirrel inside a sealed attic?
A trapped squirrel may chew through wood, insulation, or electrical wiring in an attempt to escape, causing expensive structural and fire hazards.
3. Can I legally trap squirrels on my own in Chicago?
Illinois has regulations regarding trapping and relocating wildlife. Using unapproved traps or improper handling can result in legal issues.
4. Why do squirrels return even after I chase them away?
Squirrels have strong homing instincts and will return if entry points aren’t professionally sealed. Proper exclusion is needed to keep them out permanently.
5. What should I do if I find baby squirrels in my attic?
Do not attempt to remove them. Separating the mother from her young can cause them to die inside your walls, leading to odors and additional damage. A professional can remove families safely and humanely.
6. How can squirrels damage my home’s wiring?
Squirrels constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp, and electrical wires are a common target. Chewed wiring increases the risk of electrical shorts and house fires.
7. Will store-bought traps work for removing squirrels?
Most over-the-counter traps are ineffective or unsafe. Incorrect placement or sizing can injure the animal or catch non-target wildlife.
8. How do professionals prevent squirrels from returning?
Experts use humane removal methods, inspect all entry points, and reinforce vulnerable areas with strong, wildlife-proof materials.
9. How quickly should I act if I hear scratching in my attic?
Act immediately. Waiting allows squirrels to cause more damage and makes removal more complicated.
10. What’s the safest way to deal with a squirrel problem?
Avoid DIY attempts and contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist who can handle the situation safely and prevent future issues.
Final Thoughts
DIY wildlife removal may seem appealing, but the risks—legal, safety-related, and financial—make it a poor choice for most homeowners. Working with trained experts ensures the squirrels are removed safely, your home stays protected, and the problem doesn’t return.
Need safe, effective squirrel removal in Chicago?
Contact Chicago’s Green Trappers for humane, professional help today.