Squirrel Species You'll Meet in Colorado
Colorado sits at a crossroads of squirrel species. In the Front Range cities, you're almost certain to see the eastern gray squirrel, a non-native that was introduced and has thrived. It's the classic attic invader, chewing through vents and fascia. The fox squirrel, also non-native, is bulkier and often more aggressive. In the mountains and western slope, you might encounter the native western gray squirrel, which is protected in some states, and the smaller red squirrel. The Abert's squirrel is a tassel-eared native found in ponderosa pine forests. Ground squirrels, such as the Richardson's ground squirrel on the plains and the rock squirrel in rocky areas, are the ones that dig burrows and can cause structural damage. Correctly identifying the species is not just a curiosity; it determines what you can legally do. Introduced species are often unclassified pests, while native ones may have protections. A local professional can help you tell them apart.
A Month-by-Month Timeline for Colorado Squirrel Activity
Colorado's squirrel season runs on a rhythm set by the cold and dry climate. In January and February, gray squirrels are mating, and you may hear chasing noises on your roof. By March, the first litter is born, so if you plan exclusion work, do it before then. From April to June, young squirrels are leaving the nest, and you may see more activity as they establish territories. In July, the second breeding period begins. August and September see the second litter, and squirrels are busy caching food for winter, which can mean more chewing on decks and siding. As the temperature drops in October and November, they start seeking warm shelter, making attics prime targets. December is a quiet time, but squirrels that have already moved in are causing damage. If you hear scratching in the attic during a Colorado winter, it's a good chance a squirrel has set up shop. Year-round prevention is key, but fall is the most critical time to seal your home. Summer highs near 88F across our Colorado city data heat an attic well past the outside temperature, so a July nest of young turns into a heat and odor problem within days of anyone noticing it.
What the First Visit Looks Like from a squirrel Control Pro
When you call a licensed Colorado wildlife control company, the first visit is an inspection. They'll walk the exterior of your home, looking for entry points along the roofline, soffits, and vents. They may use a ladder to get a closer look, and they'll check the attic for signs of nesting, droppings, and damage. They'll ask questions about when you hear noises and how long it's been going on. Based on what they find, they'll explain your options. If there are young, they may recommend waiting a few weeks until the young can leave on their own. If it's a simple case of a single squirrel, they may set a one-way door. You should expect a written plan that includes removal, exclusion, and any repairs. Ask about the timeline and cost before they start. A good inspector will also point out potential entry points that haven't been breached yet but could be in the future.
What Affects the Price in Colorado Homes
Squirrel removal costs in Colorado can vary widely, and several factors are at play. The first is the size and complexity of your home. A two-story house with a steep roof is harder to access, so labor costs are higher. The number of entry points matters; a single hole is cheaper to seal than a dozen. The extent of damage also affects price. If squirrels have chewed wiring, that requires an electrician. If they've soiled insulation, it may need to be replaced. Colorado's median home value is about $530,000, and many homes have attics with blown-in insulation, which complicates cleanup. The local cost of living in cities like Denver and Boulder drives higher service rates than in rural areas. Finally, the season can affect price. If you wait until winter, when squirrels are nesting, you may need multiple visits to wait for young to leave, increasing the total cost. Roughly 16 inches of rain a year leaves fascia and trim wood dry and shrunken in much of Colorado, and the extra carpentry that shows up once a technician pulls a chewed board is a common reason a quote climbs after the walkthrough.
Renters, Landlords, and Who Pays for Squirrel Damage
In Colorado, the responsibility for squirrel control often falls on the property owner. If you're a renter and you discover squirrels in your attic or walls, you should notify your landlord immediately. The landlord is typically responsible for maintaining a habitable home, and squirrel infestation can be considered a health and safety issue. However, if the renter caused the problem by, say, leaving food out that attracted squirrels, the renter may be liable. For landlords, it's wise to have a regular inspection plan and to respond quickly to tenant reports. Squirrel damage can escalate, and the longer you wait, the more it costs. In rental properties, the cost of removal and repairs can be deducted as a business expense, but it's best to act promptly. If you're a tenant and your landlord is unresponsive, contact your local housing authority for guidance.
Prevention for Colorado Homes with Attics and Crawl Spaces
Prevention is the most cost-effective strategy. In Colorado, the dry climate and extreme temperatures cause wood to shrink and expand, creating gaps that squirrels can exploit. Start by inspecting your roofline, fascia, and soffits for any holes or weak spots. Use metal flashing or hardware cloth to cover any opening larger than a quarter inch. Pay special attention to the corners where rooflines meet, and around vents and chimneys. Install a chimney cap. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof, as squirrels use them as highways. If you have a crawl space, ensure vents are covered with wire mesh. In mountain towns, check the foundation for cracks, as ground squirrels can dig under. Keep your yard free of food sources like fallen nuts, birdseed, and pet food. By making your home a fortress, you'll avoid the headache of a squirrel invasion.
When It's an Emergency: Squirrel in the Living Space
Sometimes a squirrel gets past the attic and into your living space. This is an emergency. a squirrel can cause chaos, knocking over items, chewing through wires, and even biting if cornered. If you find a squirrel in your living room, close the door to the room and open a window or exterior door to give it an escape route. Leave the room and give it time to leave on its own. Do not try to catch it with your hands; they have sharp teeth and claws. If it doesn't leave, call a wildlife control professional immediately. They have the tools and training to safely remove the squirrel. In the meantime, keep children and pets away from the room. Once the squirrel is out, inspect your home for how it got in and seal that entry point. This kind of event is rare, but it's a clear sign that your exclusion measures need an upgrade.