As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, fall is a season beloved by many. However, it’s also the time of year when homeowners often find themselves facing a furry invasion: squirrels. These small, agile creatures become more active in the fall as they prepare for colder weather and start nesting for the winter ahead. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of squirrel breeding and birthing seasons, explore their nesting habits, and highlight the potential dangers they pose to your home.

The Squirrel Breeding Season:

Fall marks the peak of the squirrel breeding season (particularly for fox squirrel, the breed of squirrel that we have in the Hill Country area), which typically begins in late winter or early spring and continues into the fall months. During this time, male squirrels become more active in their pursuit of a mate. They engage in energetic chases and noisy courtship behaviors to attract females.

The Birthing Season:

Following successful mating, female squirrels enter their gestation period, which lasts for about 44 days. This means that in the fall, you’re likely to encounter pregnant squirrels, and it’s important to be aware of their nesting habits.

The Nesting Habits:

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, pregnant female squirrels seek out warm and secure places to build nests for their impending offspring. Unfortunately, your attic, crawl spaces, and wall voids can be attractive nesting sites for these industrious creatures. Squirrels will often chew through insulation, wiring, and other materials to create a cozy nest for their babies. This not only poses risks to your property but can also lead to electrical fires or damage to your home’s structural integrity.

The Offspring:

Squirrels typically give birth to litters of three to four babies, although larger litters are not uncommon. Baby squirrels are born blind and completely dependent on their mother for survival. They’ll remain in the nest for about 8-10 weeks as they grow and develop before venturing out on their own.

The Dangers to Your Home:

Squirrels may seem harmless, but when they make a nest in your home, they can cause significant damage. Their chewing habits can result in gnawed wires, which increases the risk of electrical fires. Their constant movement can damage insulation, leading to decreased energy efficiency and higher utility bills. Additionally, the presence of squirrels can attract other pests, such as fleas and ticks, into your home.

Protecting Your Home:

If you suspect squirrels have taken up residence in your home, it’s crucial to take action promptly. Seek professional assistance from experts like Varmint Masters Wildlife Removal. They specialize in safe and humane squirrel removal, ensuring that the squirrels and their babies are relocated without harm. Moreover, they offer exclusion services to seal entry points, preventing future infestations and protecting your home from further damage.

In conclusion, fall is the season when squirrel nesting becomes most prevalent. Understanding their breeding and birthing seasons, nesting habits, and the potential dangers they pose to your home is essential. Should squirrels decide to make a nest in your property, don’t hesitate to contact professionals like Varmint Masters Wildlife Removal for effective, humane, and safe squirrel removal and prevention services, safeguarding your home and its integrity.