Squirrels and Chipmunks in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois


Understanding Risks, Signs, and Safe Removal

Our Ethical Approach to Wildlife

Compassionate care for even the smallest creatures


At Advanced Wildlife Management, we recognize the beauty and ecological importance of squirrels and chipmunks. Even when these animals become uninvited guests in your home, our removal process ensures they are treated with care and respect. We use humane techniques and always consider the safety of both the animals and your family.

Squirrels and chipmunks are among the most common nuisance animals in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. While harmless outdoors, they become a serious problem when they enter homes—especially attics—seeking shelter or nesting areas. Their chewing habits can lead to dangerous damage inside walls and ceilings.

Understanding Squirrels & Chipmunks in Our Region

Why daytime noise may mean trouble overhead

A squirrel is sitting on top of a roof looking out a damaged hole.

Common Squirrel Species in the Area

The squirrels you’re most likely to see—and hear

A gray squirrel is sitting on a wooden fence post.

Eastern Gray Squirrel

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A squirrel is sitting on a tree trunk and looking at the camera.

Fox squirrel

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A flying squirrel is sitting on a tree trunk.

Flying Squirrel (nocturnal)

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A chipmunk is sitting on a tree branch.

These animals are active year-round, often invading homes in fall and winter.

Warning Signs of Squirrels

Clues that squirrels or chipmunks have moved in

  • Daytime noises—scampering, scratching, or rolling sounds in the attic
  • Chewed entry points around rooflines or siding
  • Droppings or gnawed wood inside the attic
  • Leaves, sticks, and nesting material found in insulation
  • Squirrel sightings on your roof, entering holes


Habitats and

Entry Points

How squirrels and chipmunks sneak inside

Squirrels are excellent climbers and often gain entry through:


  • Roofline gaps or missing shingles
  • Vents without screens
  • Damaged soffits or fascia
  • Gable vents and attic fans
  • Chewed holes in siding or wood trim



Chipmunks prefer ground-level access through foundation cracks or utility openings.

The Dangers of Squirrel Infestations

Chewing, contamination, and hidden fire risks

Fire Hazard: Squirrels chew wires, increasing risk of electrical fires


Insulation Damage: Nesting destroys insulation and increases heating costs


Contamination: Urine and droppings can cause odors and health concerns


Structural Damage: Persistent gnawing weakens wooden framing and roofing materials

Safe and Humane Squirrel Removal

Ethical and effective methods that prevent return visits Advanced Wildlife Management uses live-trapping and one-way exclusion techniques that safely remove squirrels and chipmunks from your home. Our process includes:


  1. Thorough inspection of roof, soffits, and attic
  2. Humane exclusion or trapping of active animals
  3. Sealing all entry points with chew-proof materials
  4. Nest and debris cleanup


We follow all local wildlife guidelines and timing considerations to protect young squirrels during baby season.


Repairs After Removal

We don’t just remove squirrels—we repair what they ruin


  • Replacing damaged soffits, fascia, or shingles
  • Installing screened covers over vents and attic fans
  • Repairing chewed wood and sealing gnawed openings
  • Removing contaminated insulation or nesting debris


Our work ensures squirrels and chipmunks stay out—so you can rest easy.

Hearing noises during the day?

It could be squirrels.

Call us today at 815-543-0966 before they do more damage.