Tiny Invaders, Big Problems: How Termites Weaken Your Home and Invite Eastern Grey Squirrels into Your Attic
Termites and eastern grey squirrels may seem like unrelated pests, but together, they can wreak havoc on your home. Termites silently weaken your house’s structure, creating hidden vulnerabilities that eastern grey squirrels exploit to gain entry into your attic. These pests not only cause extensive property damage but also pose health risks to your family. Understanding how termites and eastern grey squirrels work in tandem can help homeowners in St. Louis, MO, take proactive steps to prevent infestations.
Understanding Termite Infestations
What Are Termites?
Termites are small, wood-eating insects that play a crucial role in breaking down dead trees and plant material in nature. However, when they infest homes, they become a nightmare for homeowners. The most common species in the U.S. include subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. According to a study published in American Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences (Ghaly & Edwards, 2011), termites affect nearly 600,000 homes annually in the U.S., causing billions of dollars in damage.
How Termites Cause Structural Damage
Termites consume cellulose, the primary component of wood, leaving structures hollow and weak. Subterranean termites, the most destructive species, create mud tubes that allow them to travel undetected from the ground into your home. Studies from Structural Survey (Reid, 2009) indicate that termite damage often goes unnoticed until major structural failure occurs, making early detection crucial.
Signs of Termite Infestation
Homeowners should look for the following warning signs:
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Mud tubes along walls and foundations
- Discarded wings near windows and doors
- Small pinholes in drywall or wooden structures
Why Termites Attract Eastern Grey Squirrels
How Termite Damage Creates Entry Points
As termites eat away at wooden structures, they create cracks, gaps, and weakened areas in walls and roofs. Eastern grey squirrels, which are excellent climbers, exploit these vulnerabilities to enter attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys in search of shelter.
Why Eastern Grey Squirrels Are Drawn to Infested Homes
Eastern grey squirrels are highly adaptable and opportunistic. They prefer warm, enclosed spaces for nesting, and termite-infested homes provide easy access. According to the Journal of Urban Ecology, squirrels are particularly drawn to buildings with pre-existing structural damage.
The Dangers of Eastern Grey Squirrel Infestations
3.1 Structural Damage Caused by Eastern Grey Squirrels
Once inside, eastern grey squirrels can tear insulation, chew electrical wiring, and destroy ductwork. Their sharp teeth allow them to widen existing entry points, exacerbating termite-related structural weaknesses.
Health Hazards: Diseases and Pests
Eastern grey squirrels carry several diseases that pose serious risks to humans and pets. They are known to host parasites like fleas and ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses.
Noise, Odors, and Secondary Pests
Eastern grey squirrels are highly active during the day, and their movements in attics can be disruptive. Their droppings create foul odors and attract other pests like flies and cockroaches, further complicating the infestation.
Prevention and Control Strategies
Preventing Termite Infestations
To protect your home from termites:
- Schedule annual termite inspections.
- Reduce moisture buildup around your home’s foundation.
- Use termite-resistant building materials when possible.
- Apply chemical barriers or baiting systems to deter infestations.
Sealing Entry Points to Deter Eastern Grey Squirrels
Homeowners should address structural weaknesses by:
- Repairing roof shingles and soffits.
- Installing metal flashing around entry points.
- Sealing cracks and gaps in walls and eaves.
- Using chimney caps and vent covers.
Professional Pest Control Solutions in St. Louis
DIY pest control can only go so far. STL Pest Control offers expert termite and eastern grey squirrel removal services tailored to St. Louis homeowners. Combining termite treatments with squirrel exclusion techniques ensures long-term protection.
Termites and eastern grey squirrels create a dangerous cycle of destruction. By weakening your home’s structure, termites open the door for squirrels to invade, leading to further damage and health risks. Protecting your home requires a proactive approach, including regular inspections, structural repairs, and professional pest control services. If you suspect an infestation, contact STL Pest Control for a comprehensive assessment and customized solution.
Additional Resources & References