Squirrels can be found on nearly every continent of the world. There are over 200 different species out there, each with its own characteristics and behaviours. Some are arboreal, and some live in the ground. In Canada, the only squirrels you should really worry about are tree squirrels. Tree squirrels are known for breaking into attics and making a mess. They’ll chew on everything and risk making you sick. If you’re interested in protecting your attic from wildlife, give us a call. We provide guaranteed squirrel removal services in Peterborough and beyond.
In Canada, there are 22 species of squirrel, of which there are 3 kinds: ground squirrels, tree squirrels, and flying squirrels. As one might guess, ground squirrels burrow underground, while tree squirrels and flying squirrels live in the canopies above. Flying squirrels are much like tree squirrels, but they are strictly nocturnal. They also glide from one tree to the next, using large folds of skin known as patagium. These squirrels are rarely seen near inhabited areas. Ground squirrels never climb trees and, unlike the other two, they hibernate during the winter. Ground squirrels hoard food and wait out the cold in their dens.
The two most common tree squirrels are the eastern grey squirrel and the American red squirrel. The eastern grey has grey or brown fur, with a white belly and big bushy tail. It may also appear fully black as a result of a genetic mutation some years ago. The American red squirrel is smaller than the eastern grey and has rusty red fur. While both species are omnivores that live in the trees, the red squirrel is usually found in quieter, coniferous forests. It also has a shorter, narrower tail. Both squirrels mate twice a year, in early spring and late summer.
There are 6 kinds of ground squirrel in Canada: the Columbian ground squirrel, Arctic ground squirrel, golden-mantled ground squirrel, Franklin’s ground squirrel, Richardson’s ground squirrel, and thirteen-lined ground squirrel. These squirrels have adapted to burrow underground, so they have smaller, narrower tails and big, clawed feet that help them dig. Ground squirrels are not very common in Ontario and therefore not a threat to your home. They have never been known to burrow into basements and cause trouble. Chipmunks, a close relative, are more likely to den under your patio, but they are nothing to worry about. These tiny little rodents do not cause any harm.
Call a Wildlife Removal Company for Squirrel-Proofing
Of every species in Canada, tree squirrels are the most common. Tree squirrels can be seen everywhere, running around in our parks and backyards across the country. If there are lots of squirrels in your neighbourhood, make sure that your roof is in good shape. Eastern grey squirrels often break into attics to raise their young and find shelter from the cold. Call us for an inspection today and we will exclude your property from invading squirrels. We will make repairs and seal off every potential entry point. Call Wildlife Removal Peterborough for humane and guaranteed service.