When people think of rodents, rats and mice often come to mind. But are squirrels also classified as rodents? The short answer is yes. Squirrels belong to the Rodentia order, a group of mammals characterised by their continuously growing incisors. While they may look more charming than their rodent relatives, squirrels share many traits with other members of this group.
Let’s explore what this means and whether squirrels pose a risk to humans.
What Makes Squirrels Rodents?
Rodents are defined by their distinctive teeth. Squirrels, like other rodents, have:
- Two pairs of sharp incisors that grow continuously, requiring constant gnawing to prevent overgrowth.
- A similar diet that often includes seeds, nuts, and plant matter, though squirrels can occasionally eat insects or eggs.
Squirrels are part of the Sciuridae family, which includes tree squirrels, ground squirrels, and flying squirrels. While their behaviour and habitats may differ from rats and mice, their biological classification places them firmly in the rodent category.
Are Squirrels Dangerous?
Squirrels are generally not aggressive towards humans, but they can pose risks under certain circumstances:
- Property Damage: Squirrels gnaw on wood, insulation, and even electrical wires, potentially causing costly damage or fire hazards. This more of a risk if they are living in your attic where they would have access to such things.
- Health Risks: While they are less likely than rats to invade homes, squirrels can still carry diseases and parasites, but they are less prone to carrying diseases and parasites vs mice and rats.
Do Squirrels Carry Diseases?
Yes, squirrels can carry diseases, though the risk of transmission to humans is lower compared to rats. Some common concerns include:
- Leptospirosis: Spread through urine, this bacterial disease can cause flu-like symptoms in humans.
- Salmonella: Found in droppings, it can contaminate surfaces and food.
- Lyme Disease: Squirrels can host ticks that carry Lyme disease.
- Tularemia: A rare bacterial infection that squirrels can transmit through bites or contact with infected tissues.
Additionally, squirrels can carry parasites like fleas, mites, and ticks, which may spread to humans or pets.
Squirrels vs. Rats: Key Differences for Humans
While squirrels and rats are both rodents, their behaviour and impact on humans differ significantly:
| Factor | Squirrels | Rats |
| Habitat | Live in trees, attics, and occasionally lofts. | Live in sewers, basements, and wall cavities. |
| Diet | Prefer nuts, seeds, fruits, and bark. | Scavenge for a wider range of food, including rubbish. |
| Damage | Chew wires, wood, and roofs. | Chew through walls, wires, and pipes. |
| Health Risks | Lower risk of disease transmission to humans. | Higher risk of diseases like rat-bite fever and hantavirus. |
| Invasiveness | Less likely to enter homes unless searching for shelter. | Frequently invade homes for food, shelter and nesting. |
While rats are often associated with infestations and widespread health risks, squirrels are usually less invasive. However, their potential to damage property and carry diseases should not be completely overlooked.
How to Handle a Squirrel Problem
Squirrels may be rodents, but they’re not as high-risk as their rat cousins when it comes to disease and invasiveness. However, they can still cause significant damage and carry health risks in certain settings. If squirrels become a nuisance, it’s important to act quickly by sealing entry points, trim tree branches near roofs, and remove food sources.
Attempting to handle squirrels yourself can be dangerous. At Merlin Environmental, we offer humane and effective pest control solutions tailored to commercial properties.
If squirrels are causing problems on your property, contact Merlin Environmental today to ensure the issue is resolved safely and effectively.
