Before a professional inspection even takes place, the timing of the noise you're hearing is one of the most useful clues a Wokingham homeowner has for working out what's actually in the loft.
Squirrels Are Diurnal, Not Nocturnal
Unlike rats and mice, which are largely nocturnal, grey squirrels are active during daylight hours. They feed, forage, and move around by day, and rest overnight — so loft noise caused by squirrels is mainly heard during the day, especially in the early morning and again in the late afternoon.
Peak Activity Times
- Shortly after sunrise, as squirrels leave the loft to forage
- Bursts of activity through mid-morning
- A quieter period around midday
- Renewed activity in the late afternoon before dusk
- Generally quiet overnight
Why This Matters for Diagnosis
A homeowner reporting noise only after dark is more likely dealing with rats or mice, while daytime scratching, thumping, or scampering strongly points to squirrels. This distinction helps prioritise the right approach before a full survey even takes place, and it's one of the first questions we ask when a Wokingham resident calls us about noises in the loft.
Seasonal Variation in Activity
Activity tends to increase in autumn as squirrels look for secure den sites ahead of winter, and again during the two main breeding peaks of the year, roughly February to April and June to August, when females move in and out of the loft frequently to feed and tend to their young. Noise and movement are often noticeably more constant during these periods.
If daytime noise in your loft has you fairly confident it's squirrels, Pest Services Berkshire can confirm it and get the problem resolved. Call 0118 336 1366 to arrange an inspection at your Wokingham property.
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