Squirrel in Arkansas
Scratching near the roofline during daylight can point to squirrels, especially in Arkansas neighborhoods with mature trees. An attic offers shelter, but closing the entrance before checking for young can make the problem worse.
JeffreyGammon — CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized and converted to WebP.
Quick identification
- scientificName
- Sciurus carolinensis and Sciurus niger
- size
- Tree squirrels vary; body commonly about 9–15 inches plus a bushy tail
- color
- Gray to reddish-brown, depending on species
- activity
- Gray and fox squirrels are mainly active during daylight
- primaryConcern
- Gnawing damage and nesting in building spaces
How to identify this pest
Eastern gray squirrels have gray coats and pale undersides; fox squirrels are generally larger and may have rusty or orange tones. Both have bushy tails. This guide focuses on these common daytime tree squirrels. Flying squirrels are different, nocturnal animals, so nighttime sounds should not be used to rule out every kind of squirrel. Roof rats usually have a slender, sparsely haired tail rather than a bushy one.
Why they are in Arkansas homes
Oaks, other nut-producing trees, and connected tree canopies support squirrels around Central Arkansas homes. Branches, fences, and utility routes can lead toward damaged fascia or roof vents. Attics become attractive nesting sites when squirrels find a sheltered opening. Breeding and nesting can occur in more than one part of the year, so do not assume an entry is free of young outside spring.
Are they dangerous?
Squirrels can gnaw wiring and building materials, although a sound in the attic does not establish electrical damage. Have suspected damaged wiring checked by a qualified electrician. Do not handle adults or young; frightened animals can bite. Avoid entering an unsafe attic or disturbing contaminated insulation.
Why they keep coming back
A familiar nest site, reachable roofline, and weak building materials can attract repeated entry. A squirrel may gnaw at a patch if young remain inside or another nearby opening provides access. Exclusion should address the whole accessible roofline after occupancy is resolved, not simply cover the most visible hole.
Professional treatment
Hicks Home Defense Pest Control can help you discuss signs of activity and the appropriate next step. Depending on the species, access, and scope, that may involve inspection, entry-point identification, exclusion recommendations, or referral to a wildlife specialist. This guide does not promise direct trapping, relocation, structural repairs, or contaminated-insulation cleanup. Any exclusion plan should account for dependent young and current Arkansas and local wildlife rules.
Where you may find them
- attic
- yard
- garage
- soffits
Signs of an infestation
- Repeated scratching or running overhead during daylight
- Gnawed edges around fascia, vents, or roof openings
- Leaves or nesting material brought into a sheltered space
- A squirrel repeatedly entering the same building opening
- Chewed materials or disturbed attic insulation
What you can do yourself
- Remove accessible spilled birdseed and store feed securely.
- Observe entry times from the ground and record where activity occurs.
- Arrange safe pruning where branches give access to the roof; never work near power lines yourself.
- Have damaged vents and fascia repaired with suitable materials after animals are out.
- Do not use mothballs, smoke, or loose poison to drive wildlife out of an attic.
Seasonal activity
fall
High: Food storage and shelter exploration may increase encounters.
spring
High: Nesting and dependent young can complicate exclusion.
summer
Moderate: Foraging and another nesting period may bring activity.
winter
Sheltered activity possible: Squirrels use protected nests and remain active.
Common questions
Are daytime attic noises always squirrels?
No. Timing is a clue, not an identification. Look for a safely observed entrance and other physical evidence.
Can squirrels chew through a repair?
They may damage weak materials or seek another route. Repair design and confirmation that young are out matter.
Should I remove a baby squirrel?
Do not handle it or assume it is abandoned. Ask a wildlife professional or Arkansas wildlife resource for guidance.
Will trimming branches solve an established attic problem?
It can reduce access but does not remove animals already inside, and squirrels may have other routes.
Are squirrels active in winter?
Yes. Gray and fox squirrels do not hibernate, though weather affects their movement.
What help does Hicks Home Defense provide?
Contact us for an assessment of the next step. Inspection, exclusion recommendations, or specialist referral depend on the situation; direct wildlife removal is not promised.
Sources
Last updated 2026-10-07