A squirrel that's built a nest, known as a drey, in your loft has moved beyond simply exploring — it's treating your roof space as a long-term home. This is a common discovery for homeowners in Thatcham once they finally go up into the loft to investigate persistent noise, and it changes the situation in a few important ways.
How to recognise a squirrel nest in the loft
- A rough ball or mound of shredded material — often torn insulation, leaves, twigs and loft debris packed together
- Usually tucked into a corner, against a chimney breast, or wedged between joists for stability and warmth
- Surrounding droppings, gnaw marks or a build-up of debris nearby
- A distinct musty smell in the loft, particularly if the nest has been in use for some time
Why nests often mean young are present
Female grey squirrels build nests specifically to raise young, and breeding can happen at different points across the year, so a nest doesn't automatically mean a single season of activity. This is one of the most important reasons not to attempt DIY removal or to seal an entry point yourself once you've found a nest — young squirrels may be present and unable to leave on their own, and disturbing the situation without the right approach can make things considerably worse.
Why professional removal matters here specifically
Nest sites need a different approach to a single squirrel passing through. It involves confirming whether young are present, timing the removal appropriately, and making sure the whole family group is out — not just the adult you happened to see — before any entry points are sealed. Getting this wrong can mean squirrels are trapped inside the roof, or that some remain and the whole cycle starts again within weeks.
If you've found a nest, or a build-up of shredded material and debris that suggests one, don't attempt to remove it yourself. Pest Services Berkshire has the experience to assess nesting sites properly and handle removal in the right way for your Thatcham property — contact us for a free quotation and we'll advise on the best next steps.
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