Squirrel Baby Season in Ontario: What to Do if They Nest in Your Attic
Hearing light scratching above a ceiling or seeing a squirrel repeatedly enter a roof opening? During squirrel baby season, an attic can become a nesting space. In southern Ontario, squirrels may have young in spring and again in late summer, although timing varies with the animal and weather. The safest first step is to find out whether a mother and babies are inside before closing an opening.
Why a quick repair can make the problem worse
Sealing a soffit or roof gap while young squirrels are still inside can separate them from their mother. It can also leave animals trapped in the building. A professional inspection should identify the entry point, look for signs of young, and plan removal or exclusion in the right order. Do not reach into a nest, block the opening, or attempt to move babies yourself.
Signs squirrels may be nesting in your attic
- Quick, light movement in the morning or daytime.
- Repeated trips to the same soffit, roof vent, fascia gap or roofline opening.
- Chewed materials, nesting debris or staining around an entry point.
- New sounds from one concentrated area of the attic.
Sound alone cannot confirm the species. Raccoons and other animals can use similar openings. Our guide to wildlife and pest control tips covers other signs, while an on-site inspection can identify the occupant.
What to do when you suspect a nest
- Watch the suspected entry from a safe distance and note when the animal enters and leaves.
- Keep people and pets away from any young animal found outside.
- Call a wildlife professional to assess the nest and discuss a humane removal plan.
- After the animals have left safely, repair the opening and inspect nearby roof edges for additional gaps.
For an apparently injured or orphaned baby, contact an authorized wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. Ontario’s wildlife guidance explains how to find help.
How Empire approaches squirrel calls
We inspect access points, explain the recommended removal sequence, and discuss entry-point repairs once exclusion is appropriate. Methods depend on the animal’s location, whether young are present, and the structure. See our squirrel removal service for more information.
Squirrel help across Durham and York
We respond to squirrel activity in Uxbridge, Whitby, Markham and other communities in our service area. Describe the sounds, time of day and suspected opening when you call (289) 408-9940. We can explain the next inspection step and the likely work before it starts.
