Understanding squirrel droppings is vital for maintaining both health and property safety. Flying squirrels, for instance, have unique defecation habits, often using a communal latrine instead of scattering droppings. Their droppings are smaller in size and have a distinct odour, which can be a clue to their presence in attics or other areas of a home. Many people wonder how to identify squirrel poop over those of other animals, as misidentification can lead to ineffective removal and increased health risks. The adult squirrels droppings are generally about the size of a large raisin and can be found in your attic space, where these critters often nest. It’s worth knowing that these droppings can carry diseases, making it essential to approach removal with care. Your best bet for safe and effective management is to consult wildlife experts who can provide guidance on proper identification and removal techniques.
Identifying Squirrel Droppings
Correct identification of rodent feces is crucial to address the problem appropriately.
Colour: Squirrel droppings, commonly referred to as squirrel poop, can often be spotted in areas where these nimble creatures make their homes. Fresh squirrel feces are typically dark brown or black, offering a stark contrast against the natural environment. Over time, these droppings undergo a noticeable transformation, gradually shifting to a light brown or even grey hue as they age. A closer examination may reveal undigested bits of their diet, which consists largely of nuts, seeds, and fruits, evidence of their foraging habits. Understanding these characteristics can be particularly useful for identifying the presence of squirrels in residential areas or gardens.
Size and Shape: Squirrel droppings can often be mistaken for those of rats, yet there are subtle differences that distinguish the two. Typically, squirrel droppings measure about 0.5 to 1 inch in length and have a more oblong shape with rounded edges. They closely resemble a small raisin or bean, with a slight bulge in the middle, about 1/8 inch in diameter with tapered ends. This makes them slightly larger than rat poop, which tends to be a quarter-inch long, typically cylindrical, and less pronounced in shape. Additionally, squirrel droppings are larger and more oblong compared to mice droppings, which are smaller, about 1/4 inch long, and more pellet-shaped. If you’re trying to identify which critter is visiting your property, it’s worth noting the different characteristics of the feces which can provide valuable clues.
Location: Squirrel droppings can frequently be found in places where these nimble creatures tend to reside, such as attics, lofts, garages, and around bird feeders or trees. If you notice visible droppings in these locations, it may indicate a squirrel infestation in your home. This is particularly concerning as squirrels often use attics for nesting, risking damage to insulation and wiring. Wildlife removal from attics becomes essential in such cases, ensuring that squirrels are safely evicted and meshing installed to prevent further intrusion. Regularly inspecting these areas for droppings can help in early detection and prompt action against potential infestations.
Health Risk Associated with Squirrel Droppings
When it comes to squirrel droppings, many people are unaware of the health risks they pose. It is important to distinguish squirrel droppings from those of rats to avoid misidentifying a rat infestation and the associated health risks. Squirrel poop can harbor harmful bacteria that pose significant threats to human health. These bacteria can lead to a variety of issues, and symptoms vary from mild allergic reactions to more severe respiratory issues. It’s crucial to take necessary precautions when dealing with these animal droppings. Use a face mask and wear gloves if handling rodent droppings. These tips can help protect against inhaling or coming into direct contact with the bacteria. By understanding the following potential dangers of squirrel feces, individuals can tell the difference and better protect themselves and their families from unwanted illnesses.
Disease Transmission
Salmonella: Can cause severe gastrointestinal issues, and could lead to such symptoms as abdominal cramps, fever, and diarrhea.
Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that can lead to kidney damage and other serious health problems.
Fungal Spores: Inhalation of spores may result in respiratory illness, and even death, in some instances.
Allergic Reactions
Exposure to animal droppings can trigger allergies, causing flu like symptoms - sneezing, itching, and skin rashes.
Property Damage Caused by Squirrels
Beyond health risks, squirrels can also harm your property.
Structural Damage: Chewing on exterior wood or and electrical wires can lead to fires or costly repairs.
Insulation Contamination: Droppings and urine can saturate your insulation, reducing their effectiveness.
Safe Removal of Animal or Rodent Droppings
If you find squirrel droppings, proper cleanup is essential to prevent contamination and spread of diseases.
Required Protective Gear
Gloves: Use disposable latex or rubber gloves to carefully pick up the poop.
Masks: Wear a mask to avoid inhaling airborne particles.
Protective Clothing: Long sleeves and pants to prevent skin contact.
Cleaning Steps
Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors for at least 30 minutes before starting.
Prepare a Disinfectant: Bleach mixed with water (1:10 ratio) or use a commercial disinfectant.
Spray the Droppings: Moisten the squirrel poop to prevent the bacteria found in the droppings from becoming airborne.
Remove the Waste: Use paper towels to pick up droppings and dispose of them in sealed plastic bags.
Disinfect the Area: Thoroughly clean surfaces with the disinfectant solution, let the disinfected area dry completely before using those surfaces again.
Wash Up: Clean your hands and any exposed skin thoroughly after removal.
Preventing Future Squirrel Infestations
Implementing preventive measures can help avoid recurrence of a squirrel problem.
Seal Entry Points
Inspect Your Property: Squirrels tend to look for gaps, holes, or cracks in walls, roofs, and foundations to enter your property.
Use Barriers: Install mesh screens or metal flashing over vents and openings to prevent squirrels re-entering.
Modify the Environment
Remove Food Sources: Secure garbage bins and remove bird feeders if necessary.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Keep branches away from the house to limit access.
Employ Deterrents
Ultrasonic Devices: Emit sounds that repel squirrels.
Natural Repellents: Use substances like peppermint oil or predator urine.
When to Contact Wildlife Removal Professionals
If the infestation is severe or the problem persists, professional help may be necessary.
Wildlife Control Experts: If you’ve found an entry point and believe squirrels are inside, have a reputable squirrel removal company install a one way exclusion door. They can safely evict squirrels and offer you long-term solutions.
Professional Cleaners: Provide thorough decontamination services to eliminate health risks.
Conclusion
Addressing squirrel droppings promptly is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. By identifying the signs, understanding the risks, and taking appropriate action, we can effectively manage and prevent squirrel-related issues.
