Squirrels in Attics Around Galveston County: Why They Come and How We Evict Them
(281) 399-2666
Galveston County • Wildlife Control
Serving Galveston 77550–77555, Hitchcock, Santa Fe, Texas City, League City, and Clear Lake.
Call (281) 399-2666 or schedule an inspection today.
Hear scratching after 2 a.m.? In Galveston County, squirrels surge in late fall and early spring as they seek warm, quiet nesting sites. Attics in 77550–77555 are prime targets because soffit gaps, roof junctions, and gable vents are easy to exploit.
Why Squirrels Choose Galveston Attics
Coastal neighborhoods packed with live oaks, pecans, bird feeders, and easy roof access create a five-star squirrel resort. Food within 50 yards of a quiet attic equals a perfect nursery. Add seasonal storms that scatter nest materials, and suddenly your insulation looks like premium bedding.
- Warmth & shelter: Insulation mutes sound and cushions nests.
- Food proximity: Nuts, fruit trees, and backyard feeders concentrate activity.
- Access points: Trimmed branches act like bridges; ridge vents and soffits are frequent weak spots.
Left unchecked, squirrels chew electrical lines, contaminate insulation, and cause odors that attract other wildlife. That’s why we combine rodent removal with full wildlife proofing so the problem doesn’t return.
Common Signs of a Squirrel Infestation
- Noises: Dawn and dusk scrabbling, scampering, or rolling sounds (stored acorns).
- Odor: Ammonia-like smell from droppings or urine.
- Visuals: Gnawed fascia, displaced soffit vents, attic trails through insulation.
- Debris: Nut shells, shredded paper or insulation, nesting material near eaves.
If you spot chewed wires or burnt smells, prioritize an electrician after removal. Chewed conductors are a fire hazard.
Our Humane Squirrel Removal Process
- Inspection: Roofline, soffits, vents, gables, and interior attic scan. We photograph entry points and map travel routes.
- Live Removal: One-way excluders and traps placed at active holes. Juveniles require timing to avoid separation from mothers.
- Seal & Proof: Galvanized mesh, metal flashing, and reinforced vent covers at every gap over ½ inch.
- Follow-Up: Recheck and final photo report so you see exactly what was sealed.
We follow state guidance for nuisance wildlife. For general reference, see Texas Parks & Wildlife nuisance wildlife resources.
Prevention & Proofing That Actually Lasts
Quick fixes fail because squirrels can chew through foam and thin plastic in hours. We focus on long-term materials and techniques:
- Trim branches 8–10 feet from the roofline to cut off runway access.
- Reinforce vents with metal grates and screws, not tape or zip ties.
- Cap chimneys and ridge vents with chew-resistant covers.
- Harden soffits at corners and roof-wall intersections with flashing.
Weather swings matter. Check forecasts for fronts and high winds that drive attic intrusions. See National Weather Service Houston/Galveston and Houston Public Works for storm prep resources.
Local Case Studies
Case 1: Galveston 77551 — Repeat Intrusions Stopped
A bungalow near 61st Street had seasonal squirrel traffic for three years. Our inspection found a hidden soffit gap behind gutter spikes. We installed a one-way excluder for 72 hours, removed juveniles humanely, disinfected the nesting pocket, and flashed the gap. Follow-up at 60 days showed zero re-entry.
Case 2: Santa Fe 77510 — Chewed Wiring Risk
Homeowners heard rolling noises at dawn. We traced gnaw marks to Romex cable in the attic. After removal, we coordinated with a licensed electrician for conductor replacement and added attic-edge mesh along the north eave. Problem resolved, no return activity at 90-day check.
When To Call a Professional
DIY attempts often miss the second or third entry point. If you’re hearing daytime scrabbling, that may be juveniles. Time the exclusion poorly and you’ll trap them inside. Our techs schedule humane removals to avoid separations and complete sealing the same day as clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if it’s squirrels or rats?
Squirrels are most active right after sunrise and before sunset, often with louder, heavier scampering and rolling sounds from acorns. Rats are more nocturnal, with lighter, pitter-patter movement and frequent gnawing at night. A professional inspection confirms species and chooses the right removal method.
Are squirrels dangerous for my wiring and insulation?
Yes. They chew to file down teeth, which can expose conductors and create fire risks. They also dig tunnels in insulation, reducing energy efficiency and spreading droppings. If wiring is compromised, involve a licensed electrician after removal.
What’s the humane way to get squirrels out of my attic?
We rely on one-way excluders and live traps placed at active entry points, timed around juvenile development. Once activity falls to zero, we seal every gap over ½ inch with chew-resistant materials and add deterrents at high-risk spots.
How long does squirrel removal take?
Most homes resolve within 3–7 days, depending on juvenile timing and the number of entry points. Full proofing are typically completed within a single service window after activity ceases.
Will they come back after you seal the house?
Not if all access points are sealed with durable materials. We add flashing and galvanized mesh at vents, soffits, and roof-wall joints. We also trim branches and recommend habitat changes to reduce repeat attempts.
Do you remove squirrels in League City and Clear Lake too?
Yes. Our service area includes League City (77573–77574) and Clear Lake (77058, 77059, 77062). We handle inspections, removal, and full proofing across greater Galveston County.
What should I do until a technician arrives?
Avoid blocking holes or closing attic doors the animals use. Doing so can trap squirrels inside and cause panic damage. Keep pets away from attic openings, and do not use poisons. Poisons lead to carcasses inside walls and secondary hazards.
How much does professional squirrel removal cost in Galveston?
Pricing depends on home size, number of entry points, contamination level needs. After inspection, you’ll receive a written estimate and photos of problem areas. We price transparently and back sealing with a workmanship warranty.
Is there anything I should never do?
Skip foam-only “repairs,” don’t set snap traps where juveniles may be present, and don’t seal holes until we confirm the attic is clear. For health guidance about wildlife exposure.
Ready to evict squirrels for good?
Our licensed wildlife team is on-call for humane removal and permanent proofing. Book a convenient inspection window now.
Call (281) 399-2666 or request service online
Helpful resources: Texas Parks & Wildlife, Houston Public Works, NWS Houston/Galveston.
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