Health Risks and Property Damage Caused By Squirrels

Although often viewed as a harmless or even charming woodland creature, the squirrel becomes far less endearing when it invades human habitats such as residential attics. For homeowners in Northern California, Gold Country Wildlife Control specializes in mitigating the serious issues that arise when squirrels encroach upon human living spaces. This comprehensive article aims to educate homeowners about the array of health risks and property damage associated with having squirrels in the attic.

A squirrel infestation can have several implications for property value, which are important for homeowners to consider. The presence of squirrels can potentially cause structural damage to a property, leading to costly repairs. They are known to chew through wires, insulation, and even wood, thereby compromising the integrity of the building. Such damages could not only reduce the property's market value but might also deter potential buyers.

Additionally, it could have an impact on the home inspection process. During this evaluation, the presence of squirrels or the damage they have caused may be noted, which can subsequently affect negotiations during the sale process. Buyers might either withdraw their offer or request a lower selling price to compensate for the anticipated repair costs.

Health Risks Linked to Squirrel Infestation

It is worth noting that they are carriers of zoonotic diseases such as leptospirosis and salmonellosis. These diseases can be transmitted indirectly when they contaminate areas with their urine or feces. It's not merely a matter of unpleasant odor; these contaminants pose a health risk that should not be ignored. One must consider that cleaning these areas may further expose individuals to the pathogens present.

Beyond disease, squirrels frequently host parasites like fleas and ticks. These parasites can transmit additional diseases, such as Lyme disease, which is a growing concern in many parts of the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Therefore, their presence in a household potentially amplifies the range of health risks due to these parasites.  

They shed fur and dander that contribute to the household's overall allergen count, thereby triggering allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. In cases where one may die in the attic, the decaying carcass could exacerbate health conditions by releasing harmful bacteria and enhancing the growth of mold spores.

Property Damage And Economic Impact

A critical issue to consider is that squirrels possess incisors that grow continuously, compelling them to gnaw on various surfaces to manage the length of their teeth. In a residential setting, they may chew through wooden beams, which can compromise the structural integrity of the home. Repairing these damages is not only troublesome but also costly, with some estimates going up to thousands of dollars.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, electrical malfunctions are one of the leading causes of domestic fires.  Squirrels exacerbate this risk by gnawing through the protective coating of electrical wires, rendering them exposed and prone to sparking. The consequences here are severe, with potential outcomes including devastating house fires that could result in loss of life and property.

These furry pests often rip apart insulation to create nesting materials. This degradation decreases the effectiveness of thermal insulation, leading to increased energy costs. Homeowners may find that their utility bills escalate if a squirrel infestation is not promptly dealt with.

Homeowners often utilize attics for storing a variety of items, ranging from old clothes and furniture to important documents. Squirrels are indiscriminate when it comes to contaminating these items, thereby rendering them unsuitable for future use and leading to economic losses.

Professional Wildlife Removal And Control

At Gold Country Wildlife Control, the strategy employed extends beyond mere removal to include exclusion techniques. These methodologies are developed to ensure that once the squirrels are removed, they do not return. Specialists will identify and seal all potential entry points, ensuring that they are securely closed off with squirrel-resistant materials.

Wildlife control is subject to various laws and regulations, particularly concerning the humane treatment of animals. Homeowners attempting to handle these issues themselves might inadvertently violate these laws. Professional services are well-versed in local and state legislation, ensuring that the removal and exclusion processes are compliant.

It is crucial to understand that store-bought repellents and traps are often ineffective as long-term solutions. Incorrect application could inadvertently lead to increased risks, such as the accidental poisoning of pets.

The risks associated with having squirrels in the attic are high, impacting both health and property. With concerns ranging from zoonotic diseases and parasitic infections to structural damage and increased fire risk, it becomes evident that professional intervention is not just advisable but essential. Gold Country Wildlife Control offers specialized services designed to not only remove the squirrels but also prevent their return, thereby providing homeowners in Northern California a comprehensive solution to this pressing issue. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.