What is the primary way tree squirrels become pests?

• A. Scrambling and scratching inside attics and wall voids
• B. Feeding on crops
• C. Boring into fence posts
• D. Spreading diseases directly to humans

Answer: (A)

Squirrels become pests mainly by finding shelter inside buildings and using attic and wall spaces as nesting sites. Their strong climbing ability lets them enter through roof openings, vents, and gaps, and once inside they scramble and scratch, gnawing on wood, insulation, and electrical wiring. This interior activity leads to structural damage, insulation displacement, noisy annoyances, and potential fire hazards from chewed wires, making it the most common and impactful pest behavior. While feeding on crops or boring into fence posts happens, those are less characteristic of how tree squirrels cause problems in typical settings, and disease spread to humans is a concern but not the primary pest behavior.