Squirrels are remarkably agile creatures capable of navigating a variety of vertical surfaces, including the walls of homes. Their ability to ascend and descend is due to unique physical adaptations. While often observed in trees, their climbing prowess extends to human-made structures, making them frequent visitors to residential areas.
How Squirrels Climb
Squirrels possess several specialized physical features that enable their exceptional climbing abilities. Their sharp, curved claws provide an outstanding grip, digging into rough surfaces such as tree bark, wood, and even the textured mortar and bricks of a wall. This allows them to maintain purchase and distribute their weight effectively as they move.
Their hind legs and ankles are powerful and highly flexible. Their hyper-extendable ankles can rotate nearly 180 degrees, allowing them to turn their feet backward. This enables them to maintain a secure grip with their hind claws even when descending headfirst down a vertical surface, unlike many other animals. The bushy tail, while not directly involved in gripping, acts as a counterbalance. It aids in maintaining stability and control during rapid ascents, descents, and leaps between surfaces. Their lightweight and muscular bodies further enhance their agility and speed.
Why Squirrels Scale Walls
Squirrels scale walls in pursuit of resources or to escape threats. A primary motivation is often the search for food, which can include raiding bird feeders, foraging for fallen nuts, or accessing garden produce. Homes and other structures also offer shelter from weather conditions and predators.
Attics, eaves, and wall cavities provide warm, dry locations for nesting and raising their young. Climbing is a natural behavior, allowing them to access these resources and evade dangers.
Keeping Squirrels Off Walls
To deter squirrels from climbing walls and accessing your home, several strategies can be implemented. Regularly trim tree branches within six to eight feet of your roof or walls, as these serve as bridges for squirrels. Inspect your home’s exterior for potential entry points such as small cracks, gaps in soffits, vents, or loose flashing. Seal these openings with durable materials like wire mesh, caulk, or metal flashing, as squirrels can exploit small weaknesses. Physical barriers, such as metal flashing installed around downspouts or poles, can create smooth surfaces that are difficult for squirrels to grip.
Removing attractive food sources, like bird feeders or fallen fruit, can also reduce their incentive to approach your home. If squirrels are already inside a structure, ensure they have an exit before sealing all entry points, especially if there are young present.