As the days get warmer and trees begin to bloom, homeowners may notice an uptick in squirrel activity—particularly inside and around their homes. While squirrels are a common sight year-round, their springtime behavior can be especially energetic and intrusive. If you’ve ever wondered why these bushy-tailed rodents seem to invade attics, chimneys, and walls this time of year, it all comes down to a mix of biology, survival, and opportunity.
1. Spring is Baby Season
One of the biggest reasons squirrels become more active in the spring is because it’s the peak of their breeding season. Most tree squirrels, such as gray squirrels and red squirrels, have two major reproductive periods each year—one in late winter and another in early summer. By early spring, many female squirrels are looking for a warm, safe place to give birth and raise their young.
Attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys provide excellent nesting spots because they offer shelter from predators and harsh weather. Once a squirrel finds a cozy place inside a home, she’ll build a nest and remain there for weeks while caring for her babies.
2. Increased Food Foraging
Squirrels are incredibly active in spring because they are coming out of a winter of limited food sources. Even though they don’t hibernate, they do slow down in the colder months, relying on stored food. Once spring arrives, fresh vegetation, tree buds, and nuts become more abundant, and squirrels become hyper-focused on finding food.
This is when they might invade homes, garages, or sheds in search of food sources. Unsecured trash bins, bird feeders, and pet food bowls can attract hungry squirrels, leading them to explore indoor areas more aggressively.
3. Nest Expansion and Territory Marking
By spring, many young squirrels born in late winter are starting to venture out on their own. At the same time, adult squirrels work to expand their territory and secure nesting areas for their next litter. This means more digging, chewing, and scurrying around homes as squirrels search for new shelter spots or reinforce existing ones.
Squirrels have incredibly strong teeth that grow continuously throughout their lives. They chew on wood, wires, insulation, and even metal to keep their teeth in check and create entry points into homes. If you hear scratching noises in your walls or attic, a determined squirrel may already be inside.
4. Warmer Weather Brings More Movement
With the arrival of longer days and warmer temperatures, squirrels become more active overall. They spend more time exploring, playing, and jumping between trees and rooftops. This increased movement means they are more likely to stumble upon weak spots in a home’s exterior, such as loose vents, gaps in roofing, or open chimneys. Once they find an entry point, they’ll take full advantage of it.
How to Prevent Squirrels from Invading Your Home
If squirrels are causing problems around your house, here are some ways to keep them at bay:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for holes, cracks, and openings, especially around the roofline and attic. Seal these areas with durable materials like metal mesh or heavy-duty caulk.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Squirrels use tree branches as bridges to access rooftops. Trim branches that hang too close to your home.
- Secure Food Sources: Store pet food indoors, use squirrel-proof bird feeders, and keep trash cans tightly sealed.
- Install Chimney Caps: Squirrels often enter through chimneys, so installing a cap can help prevent unwanted guests.
- Use Squirrel Deterrents: Motion-activated lights, ultrasonic repellents, and natural deterrents like cayenne pepper can help keep squirrels away.
Conclusion
Squirrels become more active in homes during the spring due to their breeding habits, increased foraging, and the need for safe nesting spots. While they may be fun to watch in the yard, they can become a serious nuisance if they invade your home. By understanding their behavior and taking preventative measures, you can keep your living space squirrel-free while allowing these energetic creatures to thrive outdoors.