Squirrels and rats are two of the most common animals found in roof spaces across Sandhurst, and homeowners often can't tell which one they're dealing with until they actually get eyes on the evidence. Getting it right matters, because the approach to dealing with each is different.
Timing of activity
This is often the single most useful clue. Grey squirrels are active during the day and tend to go quiet at night, while rats are largely nocturnal and are more likely to be heard scratching, running or gnawing after dark. If you consistently hear activity mid-morning or mid-afternoon, squirrels are the more likely culprit; if it's mostly late evening into the night, rats become more likely.
Droppings and gnaw marks
- Squirrel droppings are generally larger, rounder, and more randomly scattered around feeding and nesting areas
- Rat droppings are smaller, more capsule-shaped, and often found in trails along regular travel routes near walls and joists
- Squirrel gnaw marks tend to be on structural timber, roof edges and entry points around the roofline
- Rat gnaw marks are more commonly found on stored items, cardboard boxes, and cabling at floor level within the loft
The nest itself
A squirrel's drey is typically a larger, messier construction built from twigs, leaves and shredded insulation, often positioned near an entry point at the eaves. Rat nests tend to be smaller, more compact, and hidden in enclosed spots such as behind stacked boxes or within existing insulation, rather than built up as an open structure.
Entry points and how they got in
Squirrels typically enter high up, via the roofline itself — soffits, fascias, damaged tiles, or gable vents — because they're climbing in from trees or the roof structure. Rats are more likely to have come up through the building via cavity walls, pipework, or gaps at ground level before making their way into the loft, though roof-level entry is possible for rats too, which is exactly why it can be genuinely difficult to tell without a proper look.
If you're not sure whether it's squirrels or rats in your Sandhurst loft, don't guess — the wrong assumption can mean the wrong approach and a problem that isn't actually resolved. Pest Services Berkshire can identify exactly what you're dealing with — call 0118 336 1366 for a free quotation.
Think you have squirrels in your Sandhurst loft? Fast, professional grey squirrel control.
Get a Free Quote →Why Choose Pest Services Berkshire
We're grey squirrel control specialists covering Sandhurst and the surrounding area, investigating both the current infestation and how the animals are getting in. Every job starts with a free, no-obligation quotation.