If you've noticed a squirrel disappearing into your roofline, or you're hearing movement above the ceiling, it's natural to wonder why your particular house has become a target. The answer usually comes down to a combination of opportunity, timing and location. Hungerford's setting doesn't help — with mature trees along the High Street, gardens backing onto Freeman's Marsh and the water meadows near the River Kennet, and plenty of established woodland close to residential streets, there's rarely a shortage of grey squirrels living within easy reach of a roofline.
Shelter and Warmth
A loft space offers exactly what a squirrel needs to raise young or survive colder weather: it's dry, insulated, elevated and largely undisturbed. Compared to a drey built in a tree, a roof space is far more stable and protected from the elements, which makes it an appealing upgrade whenever a gap is available.
Breeding Season Timing
Grey squirrels typically breed twice a year, with peaks around December to February and again around June to July. In the run-up to these periods, females actively seek out secure nesting sites to raise young, and this is when loft entries tend to increase noticeably. If you've had a sudden onset of daytime noise in the roof, checking the calendar against these breeding windows often explains the timing.
Proximity to Mature Trees
- Overhanging branches that bring a roofline within easy jumping distance of a tree
- Garden trees close to the house that give squirrels a direct route onto the roof
- Properties backing onto woodland, hedgerows or the river corridor around Hungerford, which support larger local squirrel populations
- Gardens with bird feeders, which draw squirrels in close to the house even before they attempt to get onto the roof
Ageing Roofline and Easy Access
Many Hungerford properties have timber fascias, soffits and bargeboards that have been in place for decades. Over time these can warp, rot slightly, or develop small gaps at joints — more than enough for a squirrel to force its way through and widen with its teeth. Newer builds aren't immune either, since poorly sealed vents and gaps around pipework can offer the same opportunity.
If squirrels are getting into your roof space, understanding why is the first step, but closing off the access is what actually solves the problem. Pest Services Berkshire can inspect your property, identify exactly how they're getting in, and advise on removal and proofing suited to your home.
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