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December 3, 2025Wildlife

December Squirrel Problems in Georgia: How to Protect Your Home This Winter

As the temperature drops in Georgia this December, you’re probably looking forward to cozying up indoors. But you’re not the only one seeking warmth! Squirrels, with their fluffy tails and acrobatic antics, might seem cute in the park, but they can become a real nuisance when they decide your attic is the perfect winter getaway. Because you don’t want to worry about who (or WHAT) you’ll find making a home in your house. These persistent critters are more than just a minor annoyance; they can cause significant issues for homeowners. Understanding why they’re trying to move in and how to stop squirrel problems is key to keeping your home a squirrel-free zone this winter.

Why Are Squirrels Moving In Now?

While squirrels are active all year, the cold winter months drive them to find warm, protected places to nest. Your home offers the ideal shelter from the harsh elements, and December is prime time for them to start house-hunting.

Seeking a Winter Den

Your attic, chimney, or crawlspace provides a perfect escape from the cold, wind, and predators. These dark, quiet spaces make excellent dens where squirrels can store food and ride out the winter.

A Reliable Food Source

Squirrels spend much of their autumn gathering and burying nuts, but they’re always on the lookout for an easy meal. Bird feeders, unsecured trash cans, and even leftover pet food can attract them to your property, making your home a convenient one-stop-shop for both food and shelter.

The Trouble with Squirrel Roommates

A squirrel in your attic is more than just a bit of scurrying noise over your head. You shouldn’t have to deal with the problems they can create.

Significant Property Damage

Squirrels have constantly growing teeth, which means they need to chew on hard surfaces to keep them filed down. Unfortunately, they aren’t picky about what they chew. Inside a home, they can gnaw on:

• Electrical Wires: This creates a serious fire hazard and can lead to power outages.
• Wooden Beams: Chewing can compromise the structural integrity of your home over time.
• Pipes and Vents: Damaged pipes can lead to water leaks, while torn vents reduce your home’s energy efficiency.

Soiled Insulation and Unpleasant Odors

Squirrels will tear up insulation to build their nests, reducing its effectiveness and increasing your heating bills. They also leave behind droppings and urine, which can create foul odors and stain ceilings and walls, while also bringing in fleas and ticks to your home. 

How to Keep Your Home Squirrel-Free

The best defense is a good offense. Making your home less attractive to squirrels is the most effective way to prevent them from becoming a problem in the first place.

Secure Your Home’s Exterior

Think like a squirrel for a moment and look for easy ways in. A tiny opening is all they need.

• Seal Entry Points: Carefully inspect your roofline, gables, and foundation for any holes or gaps. Cover them with steel mesh, as squirrels can easily chew through wood, plastic, or caulk.
• Cap Your Chimney: A chimney cap is an essential barrier to keep squirrels and other wildlife out.
• Trim Tree Limbs: Prune any tree branches that are within ten feet of your roof. Squirrels are fantastic jumpers, and overhanging limbs provide a perfect bridge to your house.

Remove Food Temptations

Don’t roll out the welcome mat with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

• Use squirrel-proof bird feeders or place them far from the house.
• Ensure your trash and recycling bins have tight-fitting lids.
• Clean up fallen nuts or fruit from your yard.

You shouldn’t have to worry about pests taking over. If you suspect you have squirrel problems, contact a professional wildlife control service. A trained expert can properly identify entry points, implement a plan for removal, and help you secure your home against future intruders. Reach out today for an inspection and get your home back.