18-23 cm – Red with white belly
Wild mammal – Low risk
Red squirrel
The red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is the most common squirrel in Quebec. Although charming in parks, it can cause major problems if it settles in an attic or enters the walls of a house. It gnaws on electrical cables and can cause significant damage to insulation.
§1Distinctive features
How to identify it
Small, lively rodent, 18 to 23 cm long, with bushy tail. Bright red on the back, white or cream under the belly. Distinguished from the gray squirrel by its color and smaller size.
§2Habitat
Where to find it
It nests in tree cavities and builds foliage nests in trees. It can enter attics, walls and under-roof spaces.
§3Reproduction
Lifecycle
Without intervention, an infestation can double in size in just a few weeks.
§4What to look out for
Signs of infestation
- Running noises in the attic in the morning or afternoon
- Presence of gnawed hazelnuts, cones or nuts
- 5-6 cm entry holes in soffits or shingles
- Visible stretch on cables and wooden structures
§5Why act fast
Risks
- Damage to electrical cables (fire hazard)
- Damage to attic insulation
- Odors and garbage left in attics
- Enlargement of entry holes to allow access for other animals
§6Prevention
How to avoid it
- Prune branches less than 3 metres from the house
- Inspect and seal soffits, shingles and eaves
- Install rodent guards on trees
- Cover chimneys and vents with grilles
§7Pro method
How MW works
Inspection
Home location and assessment.
Preparation
Customized plan – pre-intervention measurements.
Treatment
Locate main and satellite nests, treat with non-repellent baits.
Follow-up
Inspection visit – written guarantee.
§8We answer you
Frequently asked questions
How do you keep it out?
The best method is exclusion: identify and seal all entry points after ensuring that no animals are trapped inside.
Do red squirrels really gnaw on electrical wires?
Yes, that’s one of the main risks. It gnaws to wear out its ever-growing incisors. Damage to cables can cause short circuits.
Can you release it yourself after capture?
Capture and relocation can be carried out, but the release site must be more than 5 km away to avoid return.
React quickly, sleep well.
The longer the infestation lasts, the more expensive it becomes.