Pro tip: How to master flying squirrel trapping & exclusion

Southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys volans) are common attic-infesting pests, especially in areas with mature oak and hickory trees. Active only at night, they are highly social, with colonies that can number from a few to 20 or more. This makes them a unique challenge, distinct from other pests covered in our Top-floor tactics: The PMP’s ultimate guide to attic pest management.

Since they can squeeze through a hole the size of a quarter, a standard “mouse-proof” exclusion job won’t be enough to keep them out.

Key takeaways

• Inspection is key: Look for latrines (communal droppings piles) and small, greasy entry points, which are often high on the structure.
• Use the right bait: Use strong-smelling baits, like pieces of pecan or walnut.
• Check traps frequently: Flying squirrels can die quickly from exposure or stress

Inspection cues

Inspection is key to identifying flying squirrels. Their nocturnal nature means clients rarely see them, reporting only “scratching or rolling” sounds at night. Look for latrines, as they tend to use communal areas for droppings. Entry points are often small and high up on the structure, such as gaps in the soffit, fascia, or roofline.

Trapping and baiting

Flying squirrels are naturally curious, making them respond well to the right bait and lures. For trapping, small cage traps or multiple-catch traps work best. Place them in the attic along known runways or near the latrine. Bait with pecans or walnuts. Pre-baiting the traps (leaving them unset but baited for a few days) can help acclimate the squirrels and lead to a more successful trapping effort.

Exclusion: The long-term solution

Exclusion is the main long-term solution for flying squirrels.

1. Install one-way doors: Identify the primary entry and exit holes (usually marked by grease or gnaw marks) and install one-way doors over them. This allows the squirrels inside to get out, but not back in.
2. Seal all other points: Meticulously seal all other potential entry points, no matter how small. Pay special attention to the construction gap where the roof and soffit meet the walls.
3. Remove doors & final seal: After a few days of no activity, remove the one-way doors and permanently seal the final entry points with your exclusion materials.

This combination of a thorough inspection, targeted trapping and meticulous exclusion is the key to solving a flying squirrel problem for good. It’s a technical, detailed job, but it’s what’s required to provide a long-term, professional solution.