Squirrel Species You'll Meet in New Jersey
New Jersey has several squirrel species, but the ones that cause the most trouble are eastern gray squirrels and southern flying squirrels. Eastern grays are large, bushy-tailed, and active during the day. They can cause significant damage by chewing through wood and wires. Southern flying squirrels are smaller, nocturnal, and often glide between trees. They are social animals that may live in colonies, and they often enter attics in groups. Red squirrels and fox squirrels are less common but can also be pests. Red squirrels are small and aggressive, while fox squirrels are larger and often found in wooded areas. Knowing which species you're dealing with helps in choosing the right removal strategy, as their behavior and entry patterns differ.
A Month-by-Month Timeline for New Jersey
Squirrel activity in New Jersey follows their breeding cycles. Eastern grays breed in mid-December to January and again in June. This means you might hear scratching in your attic in late winter and mid-summer as they prepare nests. In early spring, baby squirrels are born, and by late spring, they are ready to leave the nest. Summer brings a second litter, and by fall, young squirrels are dispersing, sometimes finding their way into homes. Winter is a critical period when squirrels seek warm shelter, so be vigilant about sealing gaps before temperatures drop. Understanding this timeline helps you time your exclusion efforts to avoid orphaning young squirrels.
What Does a squirrel Inspection Look Like?
When you hire a professional in New Jersey, the first step is a thorough inspection. They'll walk the exterior of your home, looking for entry points at rooflines, fascia, vents, and construction gaps. They'll also check for chew marks, droppings, and tracks in your attic. Using a flashlight, they'll examine insulation and wiring for damage. They may use a boroscope to look inside walls. After identifying active areas, they'll recommend a removal plan. This might involve one-way doors or traps. They'll also advise on sealing and repairs. A good inspector will explain what they found and why they recommend a certain approach, giving you a clear picture of the problem.
How NJ Homes Affect Squirrel Control
New Jersey has a mix of older homes with character and newer builds. Older homes often have more gaps and openings that squirrels can exploit, such as loose siding or rotted wood. Newer homes may have better sealing but can still have vulnerable points around roof penetrations. The type of home you have affects the cost and complexity of squirrel control. With a median home value around $360,000 across New Jersey, most owners are protecting real equity, and a chewed roof edge left alone for a season turns a small carpentry bill into a roof repair. For example, a multi-story Victorian with many eaves and overhangs may require more time to inspect and seal. A single-story ranch might be simpler. Also, homes near parks or wooded areas are more likely to see squirrel activity, as they provide easy access to food and shelter.
Renters and Landlords: Who Pays for Squirrel Removal?
When squirrels invade a rental property, the responsibility often falls on the landlord, as they are responsible for maintaining the property's structural integrity. However, if the tenant caused the problem by leaving doors open or feeding squirrels, they might be liable. In New Jersey, it's important to check the lease agreement. Landlords should ensure entry points are sealed and address any damage. Tenants should report signs of squirrels promptly to prevent escalation. If you're a tenant, document everything and communicate with your landlord. If you're a landlord, address issues quickly to avoid legal disputes and maintain a safe living environment.
When Is Squirrel Activity an Emergency?
While squirrels are not usually an emergency, certain situations require immediate attention. If a squirrel is trapped inside your living space, like a bedroom or kitchen, it can pose a bite risk. If you see chewed wires, there's a fire hazard. If you suspect a squirrel has died in your walls, it can cause a terrible odor and attract flies. In these cases, call a professional right away. Also, if you hear frantic scratching or see a squirrel struggling in a vent, it may be trapped and need help. Professionals can safely remove the animal and address the issue.