When Do Squirrels Have Babies in Wisconsin?
Have you noticed a sudden surge of squirrel activity around your home? Maybe you’ve heard scratching or scampering sounds early in the morning? You may have more than just passing visitors; there’s a good chance a family of squirrels has moved onto your property or even inside your house. In this blog, we’ll cover everything Wisconsin homeowners need to know about squirrel mating and breeding habits, the signs they’ve taken over your attic, and how humane removal can safely solve the problem.
Safely Remove Baby Squirrels from Your Home with Humane Wildlife Removal
What Time of Year Do Squirrels Have Babies?
Squirrels typically have two litters each year. They mate once during the winter months and again in the summer. With a gestation period of about 30 to 50 days, female squirrels give birth in early spring (February through April) and again in late summer (August to September).
Winter Breeding Season
- Mating occurs: December – February
- Babies are born: February – April
Summer Breeding Season
- Mating occurs: June – August
- Babies are born: August – September
How Many Babies Do Squirrels Have?
A female squirrel usually gives birth to a litter of 3 to 5 kits, though larger litters of up to 8 to 12 can occur. These newborns are entirely dependent on their mother until they are weaned at around 10 to 12 weeks. The young often remain with their mother for a short time before gradually becoming independent and venturing out on their own.
Why Squirrels Choose Attics and Chimneys?
In the wild, squirrels build nests in trees, but these nests still leave their babies exposed to predators and harsh weather. To better protect their babies, squirrels often seek shelter in human-made structures like attics, chimneys, wall voids, sheds, and garages. These areas provide warmth, dryness, and protection, similar to a hollow tree. Attics, in particular, are ideal because they are quiet, insulated, and rarely disturbed, making them a safe place for a mother squirrel to raise her babies.
Common Signs You Have Squirrels in Your Attic
Squirrels are active year-round, but nesting activity peaks during early spring and late summer. This is when mothers are urgently searching for safe places to give birth. If they’ve chosen your home, you’ll likely notice several warning signs.
- Scratching or scampering noises in the attic
- Chewed wood, soffits, or fascia
- Entry holes near rooflines or vents
- Nests made from insulation, leaves, or debris
- Droppings or urine stains
- Acorns or food debris in unusual places
Dangers of Squirrels in Your Attic or Chimney
While squirrels may seem harmless, they can cause serious damage to your home. In a short time, a family of squirrels can lead to costly repairs and unsafe living conditions.
- Tear up insulation to build nests
- Chew on electrical wires
- Damage vents, roofing, and wood
- Create constant noise
- Contaminate areas with urine and feces
- Become aggressive, especially when mothers are protecting their young
Humane Squirrel Removal in Milwaukee, WI
If you suspect a squirrel family has moved into your attic or chimney, call the wildlife control specialists at Advanced Wildlife and Pest Control at (262) 242-4390. We provide humane squirrel removal services throughout Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin, using safe and proven methods to remove both the mother and her babies without harm. Our team also repairs minor damage and installs durable chimney caps and vent guards to help keep your home protected from future wildlife intrusions.
Safely Remove Squirrels from Your Home!
Get rid of nuisance squirrels with our humane wildlife removal in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Call Now! (262) 242-4390Frequently Asked Questions
Do squirrels return to the same nest?
Yes, squirrels often return to the same den sites if they were successful in the past. Because these areas provide ideal shelter, warmth, and protection from predators, female squirrels often use the same location for both their spring and fall litters.
At what time of day are squirrels active?
Squirrels are primarily diurnal, which means they’re active during the day. If you have squirrels in your attic, chimney, or walls, you will most likely hear scratching or scampering noises during the early morning or late afternoon when they’re most active.
Do mom and dad squirrels stay together?
No, squirrels do not form long-term family units. After mating, the female raises the babies on her own, while the male does not participate in parenting. Male squirrels may mate with multiple females, and once the breeding season ends, they go their separate ways.
What should I do if a squirrely family is in my attic?
If you suspect a squirrel family in your home, avoid disturbing them. Mother squirrels can become aggressive if they feel their young are threatened. The safest approach is to contact a professional wildlife removal service to handle the situation humanely. After removal, it’s essential to seal all potential entry points, such as chimneys, vents, and soffits, to prevent future infestations.
Are baby squirrels dangerous or friendly?
Baby squirrels may look cute and harmless, but they are still wild animals. They’re not typically aggressive, but they can bite or scratch if frightened or handled, and they may carry parasites. It’s best to observe them from a distance and avoid direct contact. If a baby squirrel appears injured or abandoned, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for proper care.