Will a Squirrel Make a Nest in My Attic to Have Babies?

If you live in an area where squirrels are common, you have likely heard stories about how one of these critters has gotten into the home of one of your friends or neighbors. Whether through a loose board, crack, gap, or some other problem with the exterior of the home, the squirrel can easily squirm its way through that opening, building a home inside your basement, walls, or attic.

It’s important to realize that these animals are looking for blemishes like this. They are trying to find a place to build their nest, especially if they are pregnant.

Will a Squirrel Get into My Attic When She Is Pregnant?
For those of you who were not mothers or who are men, a little biology lesson for you for a moment. All mothers have certain instincts that kick in prior to them having a baby. Most of these are geared around having a safe place to have their offspring. This is true in squirrels as well.

When a mother squirrel is about to have her babies, she is looking for a safe place. A place where not only will the babies be protected from the elements, such as wind and rain, but also where they will be kept warm. She also wants a place that will be as safe from predators as possible. What better location than your attic?

Think about it for a minute. Even if you live in a rural area, it is very unlikely that a fox, coyote, snake, or other kind of animal is going to be in your home seeking baby squirrels to eat. She doesn’t have to worry about owls swooping down, foxes slinking into her nest, or any other animal taking her young. Your attic presents the perfect sanctuary to have babies.

When She Needs to Head Out
The best part about your attic is that it continues to be a safe place to protect the babies. If the mother needs to go out for a little while to get food or water, she can feel secure in knowing the babies are safe. It is unlikely that you spend much time in your attic, and there are no wild animals there. She can leave them alone for a little while and know they are safe when she comes back.

The Stuff to Build a Nest
Lastly, most people have an abundance of old memorabilia they keep in their attic. Things like newspapers, old clothing, furniture, and the like. All of these things would make the perfect material for her to build a nest out of. This doesn’t even include the insulation, which is soft and warm and would be a great material to use as well.

If you think about it, your attic is actually an ideal place for a mother squirrel to have her offspring. This is why you should take the necessary steps to inspect your house at least twice a year to ensure there are no entryways a squirrel can use to get into your home.

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