In the peaceful beauty of the mountains, it’s easy to forget that even here, some of the smallest creatures can cause the biggest headaches. Squirrels might seem like harmless acrobats of the forest, but once they cross the threshold into homes, attics, or crawlspaces, they become a serious pest problem. And it’s not just the ones up in the trees—ground squirrels are just as destructive in their own sneaky way. From gnawed wires and chewed insulation to torn-up landscaping and unstable foundations, these invasive creatures are more than just a nuisance.
In this part of Wyoming, residents are no strangers to species like the red and Uinta ground squirrels. These agile rodents are highly adaptable, and when temperatures start to drop or food gets scarce, they start looking for warm, cozy places to hole up. Human homes, garages, sheds, and even business properties can become prime real estate for them. And once they're in, getting them out is rarely simple.
What Squirrels Really Do Behind The Scenes
When people think of pest problems, squirrels might not top the list—but they should. Once inside a structure, these fluffy-tailed pests get busy fast. They’re excellent chewers, and their teeth grow constantly, so they gnaw on just about anything to keep them trimmed. That includes wood framing, plastic pipes, and electrical wiring. It’s not uncommon for property owners to discover damaged insulation or hear unsettling scratching sounds in the ceiling—only to find out a squirrel has made itself right at home.
Ground squirrels bring a different kind of destruction. They’re notorious for burrowing around foundations, under decks, and even through landscaped yards. These tunnels can weaken the structural integrity of a property over time and create unsightly mounds of dirt all over the place. If they set up shop in large numbers, the damage can rack up quickly, often before the homeowner realizes what’s going on beneath the surface.
And then there’s the mess. Droppings, nesting debris, and foul odors are all part of the equation. Beyond just being unpleasant, infestations carry health risks too—especially when droppings dry out and contaminate the air. It’s the kind of problem that just keeps getting worse the longer it’s left unaddressed.
Tricky To Catch, Tougher To Evict
Squirrels are fast, smart, and not exactly easy to pin down. Trying to handle an infestation without the right tools or understanding of their behavior often ends in frustration—and sometimes injury. These animals are clever about hiding, nesting, and finding new ways in, even if you think you’ve sealed everything off. That’s particularly true with ground squirrels, who can create a whole network of tunnels under the lawn while staying virtually invisible.
There’s also the challenge of timing. Certain species are fiercely territorial and will defend their nesting sites, especially during breeding season. Removing them at the wrong time can lead to complications, like orphaned young left behind in the walls or attic. Without a targeted plan, even professional-looking DIY solutions like traps and repellents might just push the problem around without actually solving it.
That’s where experience really makes the difference. Knowing when and how to intervene, what signs to look for, and which methods are most effective for a particular species or structure takes more than guesswork. It's a process that demands attention to detail, knowledge of local wildlife, and a long-term mindset—not just a quick fix.
Long-Term Protection, Not Just Temporary Relief
Getting the invaders out is one thing—keeping them out is another. Long after the initial removal, properties are still vulnerable if nothing's done to discourage future invaders. It’s not enough to patch up one hole and hope for the best. These animals are persistent and have strong homing instincts, which means they’ll often try to return to the same spot.
That’s why a good removal service doesn’t stop at eviction. It includes thorough inspection, habitat assessment, and exclusion strategies tailored to each structure. That might involve sealing up entry points, reinforcing weak spots, or even modifying surrounding areas to make them less appealing. It’s about looking at the full picture—not just the animal but the conditions that invited it in the first place.
And with Jackson Hole's mix of rustic cabins, mountain homes, and modern builds, every property presents a different kind of challenge. Elevation, weather, surrounding vegetation—all of it plays a role in how the creatures behave and where they go. Effective prevention means understanding those patterns and staying ahead of them.
When squirrels—whether they’re darting through the treetops or tunneling through the yard—start disrupting your home or property, it’s not a problem that solves itself. What starts as a few curious noises or a small mound of dirt can grow into something far more destructive if left alone. If you’re dealing with wildlife infestation issues or suspect something’s going on behind the scenes, don’t wait for it to get worse. At RM Wildlife And Pest Solutions, we specialize in helping local residents handle these situations with care, professionalism, and lasting results. Contact us today to schedule an inspection, get expert advice, or learn more about how we can help protect your property from these clever little invaders.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels
Q1. Why are squirrels, especially ground squirrels, such a persistent problem in Jackson Hole?
A1. The area's rugged terrain, rich vegetation, and seasonal climate make it an ideal refuge for both tree- and ground-based species alike. Ground squirrels flourish in open areas where they dig extensive tunnel systems that can compromise soil stability and even damage irrigation or landscaping. Their tree-dwelling cousins, meanwhile, often make their way into homes, garages, and sheds in search of warmth and nesting sites. Once inside, they can chew wires, shred insulation, and cause structural damage, making them much more than just a backyard nuisance.
Q2. Can squirrels really pose health risks to humans or pets?
A2. Yes, they can. These animals often carry fleas, mites, and ticks—some of which can spread diseases like tularemia and even Lyme disease. If these critters have taken up residence inside your home, their droppings and urine can lead to unpleasant odors and the growth of harmful mold spores. They may also cause indirect health risks by attracting predators or scavengers such as raccoons, snakes, or birds of prey, all of which could increase wildlife encounters around your property.
Q3. How can I tell if squirrels are damaging my property or just passing through?
A3. The difference is usually in the signs they leave behind. Passing roamers might be seen occasionally running across fences or foraging in the yard. However, damage indicates a more serious issue: gnawed wood or siding, holes in the eaves or soffits, and sounds of scratching or movement in the attic are common signs that there is nesting inside. taking place Ground squirrels leave telltale burrow entrances near patios, garden beds, or foundations—sometimes even undermining these structures. Frequent sightings during daylight hours, especially of multiple individuals in the same area, typically mean they’ve settled in rather than just passing by.