Squirrels in Central Florida: Cute, Clever… and Potentially Costly
Squirrels might seem harmless as they dart across your yard or climb through the trees, but in Central Florida, these energetic animals can quickly turn into a homeowner’s headache. At RH Miller Pest Services, we often get calls about squirrels causing damage in attics, roofs, and even inside walls.
Before you dismiss them as just “cute backyard wildlife,” here are some fun (and surprising) facts—along with why you should take squirrel activity seriously.
Fun Fact #1: Florida Has Its Own Native Squirrel Species
Central Florida is home to the Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), the most common species you’ll see in neighborhoods, parks, and wooded areas. These squirrels are highly adaptable and thrive in urban environments—making your home just as appealing as a tree.
#2: Squirrels Have Incredible Memory
Squirrels are famous for burying nuts—but did you know they can remember the locations of hundreds to thousands of buried food caches?
They use a combination of spatial memory and scent to recover their food. However, they don’t find everything they bury, which actually helps plant new trees!
#3: Their Teeth Never Stop Growing
Like other rodents, squirrels have incisors that grow continuously throughout their lives. To keep them from getting too long, squirrels must constantly chew—on wood, bark, and unfortunately… parts of your home.
This is one of the main reasons squirrels can cause serious structural damage.
#4: Squirrels Can Cause More Damage Than You Think
While they may look small, squirrels can:
Chew through soffits, fascia boards, and vents
Damage insulation in attics
Gnaw on electrical wiring (a potential fire hazard)
Create entry points for other pests
In Central Florida, attic invasions are especially common during cooler months or when squirrels are nesting.
#5: They’re Most Active During the Day
Unlike many nuisance pests, squirrels are diurnal, meaning they’re active during daylight hours—especially early morning and late afternoon.
If you’re hearing scratching, running, or chewing noises during the day, squirrels are a likely culprit.
Why Squirrels Are a Problem for Central Florida Homes
With abundant trees, warm weather, and suburban development, Central Florida provides the perfect environment for squirrels to thrive. Homes offer:
Safe nesting spots (especially attics)
Protection from predators
Easy access to food sources
Once inside, squirrels can be persistent and difficult to remove without professional help.
What to Do If You Have Squirrels in Your Home
If you suspect squirrels have made their way into your attic or walls:
Don’t attempt to trap or handle them yourself
Avoid sealing entry points until the animals are confirmed out
Contact a professional pest control service for inspection and removal
Handling squirrels improperly can lead to more damage—or even legal issues, as wildlife regulations may apply.
How RH Miller Pest Services Can Help
At RH Miller Pest Services, we provide effective squirrel control solutions designed for Central Florida homes. Our team can:
Identify entry points and nesting areas
Safely remove squirrels from your property
Seal vulnerable areas to prevent re-entry
Help protect your home from future wildlife issues
Protect Your Home Today
Squirrels may be fun to watch, but they don’t belong in your home. If you’re hearing noises or noticing signs of damage, don’t wait until the problem gets worse.
Contact RH Miller Pest Services today for a professional inspection and keep your home safe, secure, and squirrel-free.