Squirrel Removal in Toronto: Getting Them Out of Your Attic

Heard scratching in your attic? Get free quotes from licensed wildlife operators across the GTA.

Two squirrel species cause problems in GTA homes. The grey squirrel, introduced to Toronto parks in the early 1900s, is the most common attic intruder. The red squirrel is less numerous but equally determined. Both species treat your attic as premium real estate: warm in winter, cool in summer, and completely predator-free.

How to Tell If You Have Squirrels

The signs are different from raccoons:

• Lighter, faster thumping — squirrels weigh 200 to 500 grams. The sound is quick and bouncy, not the heavy footfalls of a raccoon.
• Active during daylight hours — squirrels are diurnal. You are most likely to hear them early morning and late afternoon. Raccoons are active at dawn and dusk.
• Chittering and chirping sounds — squirrels communicate with sharp alarm calls when they feel threatened.
• Smaller entry points — squirrels can squeeze through a 3-inch diameter opening. Raccoons need at least 4 to 5 inches.
• Chewed nuts in the attic — squirrels store food caches. Finding acorns, pine cones, or sunflower seeds in the attic is a clear sign.

Why Trapping Alone Does Not Work

This is the most common DIY mistake. Here is why:

1. Mothers with hidden babies. A female squirrel can have a nest hidden in your insulation that you never see. Trap her, and the babies die and rot in your attic.
2. You catch one, not the family. A single attic may contain a breeding pair and their offspring from two litters. Catching one squirrel does not solve the problem.
3. New squirrels move in. Your attic is an attractive den site. Unless you seal every entry point, a new squirrel will find the opening you missed.

What Professional Squirrel Removal Involves

A proper squirrel removal job is more than trapping. It is a two-part process:

1. Trapping and removal. One-way doors installed over active entry points allow squirrels to leave but not return. For ground-level access points, live traps baited with peanut butter work. Critically, removal must happen when the squirrel is confirmed to be outside the attic.
2. Full exclusion sealing. This is the step most homeowners skip, and why squirrels come back. A licensed operator inspects every vulnerable point on the roof: vents, soffits, fascia, roof edges, and gable ends. Each is sealed with galvanized steel mesh or hardware cloth. Every potential entry point is sealed, not just the one the squirrel used.

Costs in the GTA

• Squirrel removal (trapping and one-way door): $300 to $550
• Full roof exclusion sealing: $300 to $600
• Combined removal and exclusion: $500 to $900
• Attic cleanup and sanitization (if needed): $500 to $1,500 depending on extent

Prevention Tips

• Trim tree branches at least 6 feet back from the roof. Squirrels jump up to 8 feet horizontally. Without a launch point, they cannot reach the roof edge.
• Install chimney caps and vent covers on all exterior openings.
• Inspect roof edges and soffits annually for gaps or chewed areas.
• Seal any gaps over 2 inches immediately, even if you do not see squirrels.
• Do not store bird seed or pet food in the garage. This attracts squirrels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do squirrels get into Toronto attics?

Squirrels enter through roof vents, soffit gaps, fascia boards, and roof edges. Grey squirrels can fit through a 3-inch gap. They gnaw at wood and shingles to widen entry points. Trim tree branches touching the roof to eliminate their highway.

Is it legal to trap squirrels in Ontario?

Yes, with conditions. Ground squirrels and tree squirrels can be trapped, but relocated squirrels must be released within the same municipality. Use a licensed wildlife operator to avoid violations.

How much does squirrel removal cost in Toronto?

Squirrel removal runs $300 to $550 for a typical attic entry. Full exclusion sealing of all potential entry points adds $300 to $600 more.

Can I remove a squirrel myself?

Live trapping is possible for ground-level entry points. However, without proper inspection and full exclusion sealing, trapping alone usually results in squirrels returning within weeks.

What damage do squirrels cause in attics?

Squirrels chew through electrical wiring (fire hazard), insulation, and roof sheathing. They urinate and defecate in the attic, creating health concerns and odour.

Have squirrels in your attic? Get free quotes from licensed squirrel removal operators in the GTA.