If you’ve heard scratching noises in your ceiling or found insulation scattered in your attic, there’s a good chance uninvited wildlife guests have moved in. Raccoons and squirrels are two of the most common attic intruders in Maryland, and while they might seem harmless, they can cause serious damage to your home—not to mention pose health risks to your family. Here’s how to tell if these animals are in your attic—and most importantly, how to keep them out for good.
Why Do Raccoons and Squirrels Choose Attics?
Attics provide the perfect environment for raccoons and squirrels to build nests. They’re warm, dry, quiet, and safe from predators. These animals are especially active in cooler months when they seek shelter to survive the cold or raise their young. Once inside, they can:
- Tear up insulation for nesting
- Chew through wood, wiring, and ductwork
- Leave behind droppings and urine that create odor and contamination
- Introduce parasites like fleas or ticks into your home
That’s why early detection and prevention are key.
Signs You Have an Attic Intruder
Before you can solve the problem, you need to know what you’re dealing with. Look and listen for these signs:
- Scratching or thumping sounds, especially early in the morning or at night
- Chewed wires, wood, or insulation
- Foul odors coming from the attic
- Animal droppings or nesting materials
- Visible entry points like torn vents, loose shingles, or gaps in soffits
If you suspect a wildlife intrusion, it’s important to act quickly. The longer raccoons or squirrels are in your attic, the more damage they can do.
How to Keep Raccoons and Squirrels Out of Your Attic
Seal All Entry Points
Inspect your roof, eaves, vents, and attic for any gaps, holes, or weak spots where animals could squeeze through. Raccoons can fit through holes as small as 4 inches, while squirrels only need a 2-inch opening.
Use heavy-duty materials like galvanized steel mesh, hardware cloth, or metal flashing to seal openings—foam or wood alone won’t stop them from chewing their way back in.
Trim Tree Branches Near Your Roof
Squirrels and raccoons are excellent climbers and often access your roof by jumping from overhanging tree limbs. Trimming branches at least 6–8 feet from your roofline makes it harder for them to reach your home.
Install Chimney Caps and Vent Covers
Uncovered chimneys and vents are prime entry points. Install secure caps and covers made of animal-proof materials to block access without affecting airflow.
Eliminate Food Sources
Don’t make your property more attractive than it already is. Keep trash cans tightly sealed, avoid leaving pet food outside, and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed. Raccoons in particular are opportunistic feeders—if they find food, they’ll likely come back.
Use Motion-Activated Lights or Sounds
Adding motion-sensor lights or ultrasonic deterrents around your roofline can help scare off nocturnal animals like raccoons. While not foolproof, these tactics can discourage them from getting too comfortable near your home.
Already Have a Problem? Don’t Try to Remove Wildlife Yourself
Raccoons and squirrels can become aggressive if cornered—especially mothers with babies in tow. Attempting to trap or remove them on your own can be dangerous and often leads to animals returning if not handled correctly.
Instead, trust K.P. Wildlife to remove them safely and legally, and to identify any damage or contamination they may have caused. We specialize in humane removal and prevention of raccoons, squirrels, and other common attic invaders. If you think something’s living in your attic, contact us today for a professional inspection and get your peace of mind back—before the problem gets worse.
