Flying squirrels may look adorable with their big eyes and gliding membranes, but when they find their way into your home or attic, they can cause costly damage and sleepless nights. On Cape Cod, these nocturnal creatures are more common than many homeowners realize—and they are experts at slipping inside unnoticed. Understanding how they gain access is the first step in keeping them outside where they belong.
Flying Squirrels: An Overview
There are two species of flying squirrels in North America—the northern and the southern—with the southern flying squirrel being more common in Massachusetts. Unlike regular squirrels, they cannot truly fly; instead, they glide using a special flap of skin called the patagium that stretches between their front and hind legs. These small, agile mammals are active only at night, using their excellent vision to navigate in the dark. In the wild, they live in tree cavities and leafy nests, but when temperatures drop or food becomes scarce, they often seek out the warmth and safety of human structures.
Why Flying Squirrels Target Homes
Flying squirrels are warm-blooded animals that seek sheltered spaces to rest, raise young, and store food. Your attic offers protection from predators, consistent temperatures, and a quiet environment—making it an ideal nesting site. Once inside, they can chew insulation, gnaw on electrical wiring, and contaminate spaces with droppings.
Common Entry Points for Flying Squirrels
Roofline Gaps and Soffits
Even a gap as small as a quarter is enough for a flying squirrel to squeeze through. They often exploit spaces where the roofline meets the soffit, especially if the wood has softened from moisture or age.
Chimneys Without Caps
Uncapped chimneys are like open doors to wildlife. Flying squirrels can climb the exterior of your home and drop directly down into your chimney before moving into attic spaces.
Vents and Exhaust Openings
Dryer vents, attic vents, and other openings without secure screening provide easy access. Their lightweight bodies make it easy to slip through improperly covered vents.
Damaged or Loose Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles can leave gaps in the roof structure. Flying squirrels are agile climbers and can reach these openings with ease.
Gaps Around Utility Lines
Any place where wires or pipes enter your home is a potential entryway. If these areas aren’t properly sealed, squirrels can gnaw the edges to widen the opening.
Signs They’ve Moved In
Flying squirrels are active at night, so you may hear soft scratching, running, or chattering sounds after dark. You might also notice droppings, shredded insulation, or gnaw marks near vents and eaves. In some cases, a musky odor may develop from nesting materials and waste.
Prevention and Control
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Inspect Regularly: Check rooflines, vents, soffits, and chimneys for damage or gaps.
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Seal Entry Points: Use durable materials like hardware cloth and metal flashing to close openings.
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Install Chimney Caps and Vent Covers: Prevent access through these common entry routes.
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Trim Trees: Keep branches at least 10 feet from your home to limit glide access from nearby trees.
If you suspect flying squirrels are already in your home, professional help is crucial. DIY removal can be challenging since these animals are quick, nocturnal, and can return if entry points remain unsealed.
Trust Critter Control of Cape Cod
At Critter Control of Cape Cod, we specialize in humane flying squirrel removal and prevention. Our team can locate every possible entry point, remove the animals safely, and ensure your home is protected against future intrusions.