The Fall Nesting Habits of Squirrels

As fall arrives in Fort Worth, squirrels become a common sight in trees, parks, and unfortunately, attics. Their behavior changes significantly during this time of year as they begin nesting in preparation for winter. Understanding these habits can help you recognize early signs of intrusion and take the necessary steps to protect your home.

Why Fall Triggers Nesting Behavior

Fall is a critical season for squirrels. With cooler temperatures and fewer daylight hours, squirrels start preparing for the winter months. This includes building or reinforcing nests, also known as dreys, which provide warmth and safety during harsh weather. In the wild, these nests are built in trees using twigs, leaves, and moss. However, in urban areas, squirrels often choose warmer and more secure locations such as attics, chimneys, and wall cavities.

Common Entry Points Around the Home

Squirrels are skilled climbers and can easily access the roof from nearby tree branches, power lines, or fences. Once on the roof, they may enter through small openings such as:

Unscreened attic vents
Gaps in soffits or fascia boards
Loose shingles or roof edges
Chimney flues without caps

Once inside, they will begin gathering nesting materials such as insulation, paper, or fabric to build a den where they can stay warm and raise their young.

Signs of a Squirrel Nest in Your Home

During the fall, squirrels are especially active in the early morning and late afternoon. If one has nested in your attic, you might notice:

Scratching or scampering sounds above the ceiling
Chewed wires or wood in the attic
Droppings near attic corners or vents
Insulation moved or piled into nesting shapes

The longer squirrels remain in your home, the more damage they can cause. They can chew through electrical wiring, ductwork, and even wooden beams, increasing the risk of fire or structural damage.

Health Risks and Diseases Squirrels Can Carry

Beyond property damage, squirrels can pose health risks to humans and pets. While they may seem harmless, squirrels are wild animals that can carry a variety of diseases and parasites including:

Leptospirosis
Salmonella
Tularemia
Rabies (rare but possible through bites)
Fleas, ticks, and mites that may spread to pets or people
Roundworms found in squirrel feces

Exposure to squirrel urine or droppings can also contribute to respiratory problems, especially when the contaminants accumulate in attic insulation or air ducts.

Preventing Squirrel Nests in the Fall

The best way to prevent a squirrel infestation is to make your home less accessible. Here are a few proactive steps homeowners in Fort Worth can take:

Trim tree limbs at least six feet away from the roof
Install chimney caps and vent covers
Seal small holes and gaps along the roofline or siding
Clean up outdoor food sources such as birdseed or pet food
Schedule a seasonal wildlife inspection to catch issues early

Professional Squirrel Removal and Prevention

If you suspect squirrels are nesting in your home this fall, do not attempt to remove them on your own. Trapping or blocking entry without proper knowledge can separate a mother from her young or drive the animal deeper into your home.

At Wildlife X Team of Fort Worth, we offer humane and effective squirrel removal services backed by years of local experience. Our team identifies entry points, safely removes the animals, and seals off your home to prevent future problems.