Signs of Squirrel Damage in Attics: Iowa City Homeowner’s Guide to Winter Wildlife

As winter sets in, squirrels in Iowa City often retreat to attics for warmth and shelter.

Though they may seem harmless, squirrel damage in attics can lead to chewed wires, damaged insulation, and even structural problems.

Identifying the signs early can help you protect your home and avoid costly repairs. This guide will show you what to look for and how to stay ahead of the damage.

Squirrels in attics don’t hide their presence for long—once they move in, you’ll notice clear evidence of their activity. Paying attention to these signs can help you manage the problem before it becomes a bigger issue.

Here are the most common indicators:

Squirrels are active during the day, so scurrying, scratching, or scampering sounds in the attic—especially in the morning or late afternoon—are strong signals of their presence.

Unlike nocturnal pests like rats, squirrels are loudest when building nests or moving around. Pay close attention to noises near walls or ceilings where they may be most active.

A dangerous sign of squirrel damage in attics is gnawed electrical wiring. Squirrels chew wires to file their teeth, which can lead to exposed cables and fire hazards.

They also chew wood, insulation, and other materials, weakening the attic’s structure. If you find bite marks or shredded items, it’s a clear sign squirrels are causing damage.

Squirrels leave droppings that are often mistaken for those of other pests, but they have distinct characteristics.

These droppings, about 3/8 of an inch long and dark brown, tend to appear in clusters around nesting areas.

Nesting materials are another clear indicator. Squirrels often gather items like shredded insulation, twigs, or even paper to create their nests. Spotting these materials strewn across the attic is a strong sign of squirrel activity.

Squirrels typically access attics by creating or enlarging openings in roofs, soffits, or fascia boards.

These entry points often show fresh gnaw marks, claw scratches, or damage to shingles and vents.

Unchecked entry points can worsen over time, inviting not just squirrels but other pests into your home. Sealing these gaps quickly is crucial to minimizing the risk of further attic damage.

Squirrel damage to homes can go far beyond what’s immediately visible. The impact often escalates, affecting your home’s safety, comfort, and long-term value.

Here’s what you need to know about the potential risks:

Keeping squirrels out of your attic is far simpler and more cost-effective than repairing the damage they can cause. A few proactive measures can go a long way in protecting your home from these determined intruders.

Here’s how to safeguard your attic:

Squirrels are adept at squeezing through small openings, so it’s crucial to inspect your home for vulnerabilities. Pay attention to roof edges, soffits, chimneys, and gaps near wiring or pipes.

Use sturdy materials like metal flashing or hardware cloth to block these entry points. Installing vent covers and inspecting for new gaps regularly will help keep squirrels at bay.

Squirrels often reach attics by leaping from nearby trees. Prune branches that hang within 6–8 feet of your roof to limit their access.

Clearing shrubs and debris near your foundation also reduces potential nesting sites, making your home less appealing to squirrels.

Professional inspections of your attic, roof, and exterior can help uncover hidden vulnerabilities. Wildlife control experts can identify and address weak spots like loose shingles or damaged vents.

Annual inspections ensure your home stays protected and allow you to address small issues before they become major problems.

Knowing how to get rid of squirrels in the attic is a top priority. Professional services offer safe, humane, and long-term solutions to handle the problem effectively.

DIY methods might seem appealing, but they often provide only short-term solutions. Experts, on the other hand, address the root of the problem and help prevent future infestations.

Here’s what professional squirrel removal involves:

Professional services focus on humane techniques to safely remove squirrels while complying with local wildlife regulations. Two common approaches include:

Both methods ensure effective removal while protecting the animals and your property.

Professional squirrel removal services go beyond eviction. They repair damage left behind and take steps to prevent a recurrence. These services often include:

For homeowners in Iowa City, Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management is the trusted choice for humane and effective squirrel removal. Here’s why:

You don’t have to face a squirrel infestation alone. Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management provides professional, compassionate solutions to help you reclaim your attic with peace of mind.

Don’t let squirrels turn your attic into their winter retreat. If you’re noticing signs of damage—or want peace of mind that your home is secure—Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management is here to help.

Our team specializes in humane squirrel removal, expert repairs, and prevention strategies tailored to Iowa City homeowners, and the surroundsing areas. With local expertise and ethical practices, we’ll ensure your home stays safe and squirrel-free.

Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your inspection. Whether it’s removal or prevention, we’re ready to protect your home from top to bottom.

Derek Brownmiller, Area Manager at Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, leads with 16+ years in wildlife and pest control. Licensed and experienced, his Iowa City-based team excels in comprehensive, customer-focused solutions. Their mission: superior service in Iowa City and beyond, ensuring homes are safe from wildlife and pests.