If you've been up into your loft after hearing daytime scratching and found something that looks like an untidy pile of leaves and shredded material tucked into a corner, there's a good chance you're looking at a squirrel's nest, known as a drey. Knowing what to look for can help you confirm what you're dealing with before deciding on next steps.
What a drey is typically made from
- A base of twigs and leaves, similar to a nest you might see wedged in the branches of a garden tree
- An inner lining of soft, shredded material — often loft insulation, but also shredded cardboard, fabric, or bedding wool pulled from around the loft
- A rough, ball-like or dome shape, generally larger and messier than the nest of a mouse or rat
- Sometimes multiple partial nests or caches of material in different corners if more than one squirrel has been active
Where in the loft you're likely to find one
Squirrels tend to nest close to their entry point, often tucked against the roof timbers near the eaves rather than in the middle of the loft floor. If your loft is boarded and used for storage, check the corners and edges first, particularly anywhere insulation has been visibly disturbed, flattened, or pulled away from its original position.
How this differs from other signs you might find
A drey is distinct from the scattered droppings, gnaw marks, and general mess that also accompany squirrel activity. You might find a nest without obvious droppings nearby, or vice versa, depending on how long the squirrels have been present and how established the site is. Fresh, tightly packed nesting material generally indicates more recent or ongoing activity, while a dry, loose, abandoned-looking nest may mean the squirrels have already moved on.
Why finding a nest changes what happens next
A nest is a strong sign that squirrels have properly settled in, rather than just passed through. It often means there's a reasonable chance of young being present at certain times of year, which affects both the timing and the approach a professional will take to clear the loft responsibly and lawfully.
If you've found what looks like a squirrel nest in your Sandhurst loft, it's best not to disturb it yourself. Pest Services Berkshire can confirm what you're dealing with and advise on the right approach — call 0118 336 1366 for a free quotation.
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