“To get rid of unwanted squirrels, start with a professional inspection and humane trapping. Simply using a squirrel repellent or loud noise won’t solve the root issue. Full removal, exclusion, and cleanup are the only ways to ensure they don’t come back.”
If you’re hearing mysterious scratching in the attic or spotting furry little acrobats racing across your roof, you’re not alone. Unwanted squirrels are a common headache for homeowners across the Treasure Coast, especially in places like Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, and Vero Beach. These clever critters aren’t just looking for a snack—they’re often searching for a warm, cozy place to build a nest, and your attic checks all the boxes. While squirrels might look cute hopping from tree to tree, the damage they cause inside your home is anything but adorable.
At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a small squirrel problem can turn into a full-blown attic invasion. From shredded insulation and chewed wires to the unmistakable smell of nesting materials, the signs are clear—and the risks are real. If you’re wondering how to get rid of squirrels safely and legally in Florida, this guide will walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and when it’s time to bring in the pros. Let’s make your home squirrel-free the smart (and humane) way.
Why Are Squirrels a Problem Around Treasure Coast Homes?
Squirrels might seem harmless as they dart through trees or raid your bird feeder, but when they make their way into your attic or crawlspace, they bring serious trouble. In the Treasure Coast region, the most common culprits are Eastern gray squirrels and fox squirrels. These agile animals are constantly searching for shelter—especially during spring and fall when nesting activity spikes. Your attic offers warmth, safety, and insulation materials they can easily shred into bedding.
Once inside, squirrels can chew through wood, wires, and even PVC piping—causing structural damage and creating fire hazards. Their droppings and urine can stain ceilings and lead to foul odors, while their constant gnawing can destroy insulation and spike your energy bills. Homeowners trying to prevent squirrels often overlook attractants like bird feeders or unsecured roof vents. If you want to keep squirrels away, it’s essential to address both access points and food sources. If you spot squirrels on your roof or hear early-morning scrambling above your head, you could be dealing with more than a minor nuisance.
How Can I Tell If I Have a Squirrel Problem?
1. Strange Sounds in the Attic
One of the earliest and most obvious signs is noise. If you’re hearing scratching, gnawing, or fast-paced scampering above your ceiling—especially at dawn or dusk—you might have squirrels setting up shop. These critters are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active during those hours, so attic disturbances at these times are a big red flag.
2. Damage to Roof and Entry Points
Squirrels are expert chewers. Look for signs of gnawing on soffits, fascia boards, vents, or roof edges. They often enlarge small openings or create entirely new ones to get into your attic. This damage can quickly escalate and even let in water or other pests if left unchecked.
3. Nesting Materials and Droppings
Once inside, squirrels will build nests using leaves, insulation, and other soft materials. You might spot small piles of debris in corners or see their droppings scattered around. Squirrel waste carries health risks and can leave strong odors that soak into your insulation.
4. Regular Squirrel Activity Near Your Roof
Frequent squirrel sightings on your roof, power lines, or near your chimney often mean they’re using those areas to access your home. If you see the same squirrel entering and exiting a specific spot, they’ve likely made themselves comfortable inside.
What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of Unwanted Squirrels?
Getting rid of squirrels the right way requires more than a trap and a good hiding spot. In Florida—especially around the Treasure Coast—there are laws, risks, and baby squirrels to consider. If you want to safely remove squirrels and keep them out for good, it’s important to follow a proven process that blends humane methods with professional pest control strategies.
1. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Before anything else, a licensed wildlife expert needs to assess your property. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast, we check common entry points, look for signs of nesting, and determine if babies are involved. A proper inspection helps avoid incomplete removal and future infestations—two common issues in rodent and squirrel control.
2. Use Humane Trapping Techniques
Florida law requires that squirrels, once trapped, must either be released on the same property or humanely euthanized. That means relocation isn’t an option for most homeowners. Our team uses state-approved live traps and ethical handling practices to safely remove squirrels without harm, avoiding the risks of amateur pest control attempts.
3. Perform Full Squirrel Removal and Exclusion
Trapping is only part of the solution. We remove all squirrels—including any hidden juveniles—and then seal every entry point with chew-proof materials. This step is key to deter squirrels from re-entering your home. Without proper exclusion, even the best traps or squirrel repellent won’t stop the cycle.
4. Clean Up and Prevent Future Problems
We finish the job with attic cleanups, odor control, and damage repair. Whether it’s gnawed insulation, chewed wiring, or droppings, we handle the aftermath so you don’t have to. You’ll also get expert tips on how to squirrel-proof your home and use safe methods to deter squirrels from returning.
Can I Use DIY Methods Like Repellents or Noise Devices?
DIY squirrel control might sound like a quick fix, but in reality, it rarely delivers long-term results. Repellents like ammonia or predator urine may work for a short time, but squirrels are clever and determined—they often return once the scent fades. Noise-based deterrents, such as loud music or ultrasonic devices, may scare them off briefly, but these tactics don’t address the real issue: access points and nesting areas. Most squirrels simply adapt and move to a quieter corner of your attic.
The bigger risk? DIY methods often miss hidden baby squirrels, especially during spring and fall nesting seasons. If you remove the mother without finding her litter, you could be left with orphaned young that die inside your walls or insulation. That leads to bad smells, bug infestations, and even more damage. Professional squirrel removal ensures humane handling, proper exclusion, and full cleanup—something store-bought gadgets just can’t match.
Why Choose AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast?
When squirrels invade your attic, you don’t want guesswork—you want local experts who know what works. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast, we specialize in humane squirrel removal that follows Florida laws and respects the wildlife we handle. Our licensed team doesn’t just remove the problem—we identify how squirrels got in, safely evict them, and seal up every possible re-entry point with durable, chew-proof materials. From the first inspection to the final cleanup, we handle it all so you don’t have to.
What sets us apart is our deep understanding of the local environment. We’ve helped homeowners across Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and Stuart deal with everything from single squirrel intrusions to full attic infestations. Whether it’s repairing chewed wires or sanitizing nesting sites, we make sure your home is safe, secure, and squirrel-free. With detailed documentation, honest pricing, and a friendly crew that shows up on time, we’re the Treasure Coast’s trusted choice for squirrel removal done right.
What Happens After the Squirrels Are Gone?
Once the squirrels are removed, the job isn’t over. Attics often need serious attention after an infestation—squirrels leave behind urine, droppings, shredded insulation, and sometimes even deceased babies. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast, we offer full cleanup and sanitation services to neutralize odors, remove harmful bacteria, and restore your attic to a healthy, livable space. This step is essential not just for comfort but also for preventing mold, pests, and disease.
We also inspect for and repair damage left behind by gnawing and nesting. That includes chewed wires, torn insulation, and compromised air vents. After sealing every possible entry point with chew-resistant materials, we give you advice on how to keep your home squirrel-free moving forward. It’s not just about removal—it’s about long-term protection and peace of mind.
When Should I Call a Professional?
1. Early Warning Signs Matter
Don’t wait until you’ve got chewed wires or ruined insulation. If you’re hearing scratching in the attic, noticing droppings, or seeing squirrels consistently near your roof, it’s time to act. These early signs often point to an active intrusion that can worsen quickly if ignored.
2. Nesting Seasons Increase the Risk
Squirrels in the Treasure Coast area typically nest in spring and fall. During these times, a squirrel problem may also involve babies hidden in your attic insulation or walls. Removing the mother without finding her young can lead to dead animals, odor issues, and more cleanup costs.
3. DIY Isn’t Always Safe or Legal
Florida has specific rules around squirrel removal and release. Professionals like AAAC Wildlife Removal understand the laws, use humane methods, and know how to get the job done completely. We make sure the removal is safe, legal, and thorough—no guesswork involved.
Don’t Wait—Let’s Get Those Squirrels Out for Good
Unwanted squirrels can turn your attic into a disaster zone fast. From noise and droppings to fire hazards and property damage, the risks only grow the longer you wait. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast, we’ve helped homeowners all across Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and nearby areas take back their homes with safe, humane, and effective squirrel removal services.
If you’re ready for a squirrel-free attic and real peace of mind, give us a call today. Our team will inspect your home, remove the intruders, seal off entry points, and help you prevent future problems. Call AAAC Wildlife Removal now to schedule your inspection—we’ll handle the squirrels, so you can get back to living comfortably.
