Squirrels may seem harmless as they dart across tree branches in city parks, but when they enter your home, they become one of the most destructive urban pests. In recent years, Chicago homeowners have seen a sharp rise in attic and roof infestations caused by gray and fox squirrels. These animals are resourceful, persistent, and capable of significant property damage if left unchecked.
Let’s explore why squirrels are increasingly targeting Chicago homes, the damage they cause, and how professional squirrel removal in Chicago can restore your peace of mind.
Why Squirrel Infestations Are Increasing in Chicago
Several urban and environmental factors have made Chicago more inviting to squirrels than ever before:
1. Abundant Food Sources
From overflowing garbage bins and bird feeders to backyard gardens and restaurant dumpsters, Chicago provides an endless buffet for urban wildlife. Squirrels thrive in neighborhoods with easy access to nuts, seeds, fruits, and food waste — making places like Lincoln Park, Logan Square, and Edgewater prime habitats.
2. Aging Housing Stock
Many of Chicago’s charming older homes have attics, vents, and eaves that aren’t tightly sealed. Cracks, broken soffits, and roof gaps allow squirrels to enter and build nests, especially during colder months.
3. Cold Winters and Urban Shelter
When temperatures drop, squirrels seek warm, insulated spaces — your attic being their favorite. The warmth, dryness, and insulation provide perfect nesting material and shelter for raising their young.
4. Reduced Natural Predators
Urban environments naturally limit predators like hawks and owls. With fewer natural threats, squirrel populations can multiply quickly, spreading across residential areas.
5. Tree Density and Roof Access
Tree-lined streets and close rooftop spacing make it easy for squirrels to leap from trees to chimneys or attic vents. Without regular trimming or screening, homes become accessible shelters.
The Damage Squirrels Can Cause in Your Attic
Once inside, squirrels can inflict extensive and costly damage:
- Chewing Wires & Cables: Squirrels constantly gnaw to keep their teeth from overgrowing. Exposed wiring increases the risk of electrical fires.
- Ruined Insulation: Nesting squirrels shred insulation, reducing energy efficiency and increasing heating costs.
- Contaminated Attics: Urine and droppings produce foul odors, attract insects, and can pose health risks.
- Roof & Structural Damage: Persistent chewing on rafters, vents, and fascia boards weakens structural components over time.
- Noise & Stress: Scurrying, scratching, and chattering noises in ceilings can disrupt sleep and cause anxiety for homeowners.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call professional squirrel trappers or wildlife control experts before the damage worsens.
How to Prevent Squirrel Infestations
1. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your roof, soffits, vents, and chimneys for gaps or cracks larger than ½ inch. Install metal mesh or hardware cloth to prevent entry.
2. Trim Trees & Branches
Keep branches at least 6–8 feet from your roofline to reduce easy access routes for squirrels.
3. Secure Food Sources
Store garbage in animal-proof bins and clean up fallen birdseed or fruit from your yard.
4. Schedule Routine Inspections
Professional wildlife control services can identify early warning signs and seal entry points before squirrels move in.
Professional Squirrel Removal in Chicago
While DIY trapping might seem tempting, squirrels are clever, fast, and protected under certain local wildlife regulations. That’s why it’s best to rely on licensed professionals specializing in squirrel removal in Chicago.
Expert squirrel trappers use humane, safe, and effective methods such as:
- Live trapping and relocation.
- One-way exclusion devices allowing squirrels to exit but not re-enter.
- Attic cleanup and insulation restoration.
- Preventive sealing of all potential entry points.
A certified wildlife technician ensures that both the animals and your property are treated with care and compliance.
Why Choose Professional Wildlife Control
Professional wildlife control teams don’t just remove squirrels — they identify the root cause and create long-term prevention strategies. Benefits include:
- Humane, eco-friendly removal methods.
- Comprehensive attic inspection and sanitation.
- Guaranteed exclusion and prevention work.
- Peace of mind knowing your home is safe and protected.
Final Thoughts
Squirrels are a natural part of Chicago’s urban landscape, but they don’t belong inside your home. The combination of cold winters, old housing, and dense tree coverage makes the city a hotspot for infestations — especially in attics.
Whether you’re hearing scratching noises at night or discovering attic damage, prompt action is key. Contact professional squirrel removal experts in Chicago like Chicago’s Green Trapper for safe, humane, and lasting wildlife control solutions.
FAQs About Squirrel Removal in Chicago
Q1: Why do squirrels enter Chicago homes?
A: Squirrels enter homes seeking warmth, food, and safe nesting spaces — especially attics and wall voids during cold Chicago winters.
Q2: How do I know if squirrels are in my attic?
A: Common signs include scratching noises, droppings, chewed wires, shredded insulation, and foul odors from urine or nesting materials.
Q3: Is squirrel removal safe and humane?
A: Yes. Professional wildlife control companies use humane live-trapping and exclusion methods to safely remove and relocate squirrels.
Q4: Can I remove squirrels myself?
A: DIY methods are risky and often ineffective. Without sealing entry points or handling animals safely, infestations quickly return. It’s best to call certified squirrel trappers.
Q5: How much does squirrel removal cost in Chicago?
A: The cost varies depending on infestation size, damage, and access points. Most homeowners can expect professional squirrel removal in Chicago to start between $250–$600, including inspection and sealing.