What’s the Difference Between a Squirrel and a Rat Nest?

Many homeowners hear noises in the ceiling or find insulation scattered around and assume it’s rats. But squirrels are just as likely — especially during baby season in spring and fall.

Key Differences Between Squirrel and Rat Nests

Squirrels build larger, more organized nests. They tend to use materials like leaves, twigs, and attic insulation to form a round, bowl-like structure — often in corners or on top of HVAC ducts. Their nests are relatively neat and usually located in open areas of the attic.

Rats, on the other hand, create loose, messy nests hidden in wall cavities, behind appliances, or inside insulation. They use shredded paper, fabric, and debris, and they often drag food back to the nest site. You’re more likely to find rat droppings scattered around a rat nest than a squirrel one.

Squirrel activity is usually loud and during daylight hours. Rats are quieter and more active at night. If you’re hearing thumping or scurrying during the day, it’s probably a squirrel.

Why It Matters for Your Home

Squirrels chew through wood, fascia boards, and even shingles to gain access. Once inside, they often return year after year unless properly excluded. They can also chew wiring, which is a fire risk.

Rats reproduce faster, contaminate insulation with droppings and urine, and are harder to fully eliminate once established. Misidentifying the animal can lead to wasted time, money, and repeated infestations.

Why Homeland Wildlife Gets It Right

We don’t guess. Our experienced techs look for droppings, gnaw marks, hair, nesting materials, and entry points to correctly identify the species. From there, we build a targeted plan: humane trapping, full sealing, and cleanup — all backed by our Lifetime Warranty.

We also offer attic sanitation and insulation repair if contamination has occurred.

Think Something’s Nesting in Your Attic? Let’s Find Out.

Call Homeland Wildlife & Pest Control for a free inspection. We’ll tell you exactly what you’re dealing with — and stop it before it spreads.

📞 210-776-6100
🌐 www.homelandwildlife.com

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