Red vs Grey Squirrels in the GTA: Why It Matters

Every GTA homeowner sees squirrels in their yard. But not all squirrels are the same. Understanding the difference between red and grey squirrels helps you solve the problem faster and save money on removal.

Grey Squirrels in the GTA

The grey squirrel is the most common wildlife in urban Toronto. They are comfortable around people, live in large numbers in city parks, and readily enter homes. Grey squirrels in the GTA nest in attics, soffits, and wall voids.

Grey squirrels cause significant damage. They chew through wiring creating fire hazards, tear insulation for nesting, and gnaw on wooden beams. A single grey squirrel in your attic can cause thousands of dollars in damage.

They enter homes through roof edges, soffit gaps, and damaged roof vents. In fall, they actively seek warm indoor spaces for winter shelter.

Red Squirrels in the GTA

Red squirrels are less common in urban Toronto but prevalent in the northern GTA: Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and areas near the Oak Ridges Moraine. They are smaller, more aggressive, and cause different damage.

Red squirrels are intense chewers. They damage wiring more aggressively than grey squirrels and hoard more food in nest sites. Their cheek pouches are massive, and they stuff attics full of cached nuts and seeds.

Different Rules Apply

Ontario has different trapping regulations for native squirrels versus invasive grey squirrels. Grey squirrels can be relocated, but red squirrels are native wildlife requiring proper handling. This affects how your removal operator approaches the job.

When Squirrels Enter Your Home

Squirrels enter GTA homes in two main seasons: spring (March to April) for breeding and fall (September to October) for winter shelter. Juvenile squirrels dispersing in fall cause the most home entries.

If you have a squirrel problem, Get free quotes from licensed squirrel removal operators who understand the difference between species.