Flying Squirrels vs. Gray Squirrels: How to Identify and Prevent Home Invasions
Title: "Flying Squirrels vs. Gray Squirrels: How to Identify and Prevent Home Invasions"
Meta Description: "Learn to differentiate between flying squirrels and gray squirrels and prevent home invasions. Contact us for expert wildlife removal services in New York."
Squirrels may be delightful to observe outdoors, but once they infiltrate your home, they become a nuisance and a potential threat to your property and family's well-being. Learn to distinguish between flying squirrels and gray squirrels and take proactive measures to safeguard your home.
Understanding the Risks
Squirrels can cause serious damage and pose health risks to you and your family. If they find their way into your home, they often reside within walls and attics, gaining access to electrical wiring that they may chew, posing a fire hazard. Additionally, their droppings can ruin insulation and create a sanitary issue, while carrying parasites that can affect your family and pets.
Identifying Squirrel Species
It's common to mistake flying squirrels for gray squirrels. Gray squirrels, prevalent in the New York area, have short, thick gray fur and a bushy tail. They measure between 6 and 15 inches and boast a predominantly gray coat. On the other hand, flying squirrels exhibit gray/brown fur with light gray/white underbellies. They are smaller, ranging from 8 to 12 inches, and are distinguished by their large, beady, black eyes.
Preventing Home Invasions
Prevention is key to keeping squirrels out of your home. During colder months, squirrels seek shelter in attics, walls, and chimneys. Follow these prevention tips to deter them:
- Remove food sources such as garbage cans and bird feeders.
- Seal any exterior holes, especially around the roof area, and install chimney caps and mesh over vents.
- Replace loose or missing shingles.
- Trim tree branches near your home to eliminate potential entry points.
Professional Wildlife Removal:
If squirrels have already breached your home's defenses, it's crucial to seek assistance from a wildlife removal specialist like Thomas Pest Services. Avoid DIY methods, as they can be hazardous and ineffective. Our family-owned company boasts a highly trained team dedicated to humanely removing squirrels from your home. With Thomas Pest Services, you can rest assured that your property will be squirrel-free, allowing you to enjoy their antics from a safe distance.
Protect your home from squirrel invasions. Contact us today for expert wildlife removal services tailored to your needs. We always offer a free inspection and estimate for your convenience.