Every year in Florida, September marks a seasonal shift—one not just in weather, but in wildlife activity. If you’ve been hearing scurrying noises in your attic or spotting more squirrels darting across your rooflines, you’re not imagining things. This is one of the busiest times of year for squirrels, especially in Central Florida, because September is baby squirrel season.
Understanding when squirrels have babies helps homeowners know when they’re most at risk for infestations and structural damage. In this article, we’ll cover Florida’s squirrel breeding cycle, signs of nesting, the types of squirrels most active in our region, and why early fall is a crucial time to act.
Florida's Two Breeding Seasons: Why September Matters
Squirrels in Florida breed twice a year: once in late winter (January–March) and again in late summer (July–September). These mating seasons lead to two distinct birthing periods, with pups (baby squirrels) typically born in early spring and early fall.
After mating, the gestation period lasts about 44 days, and a mother squirrel gives birth to a litter of 2–4 pups. In Central Florida, September is when the second wave of young squirrels becomes active, often venturing out of their nests for the first time.
Common Squirrel Species in Central Florida
Florida is home to several species of squirrels, but three are most relevant when it comes to property damage and indoor nesting:
Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): The most common nuisance squirrel in Florida. They’re agile climbers, frequent visitors to bird feeders, and the #1 species found nesting in attics.
Southern Flying Squirrel: Nocturnal and rarely seen during the day. These squirrels are small, and their ability to glide makes tree-to-roof access easy. They often build nests in wall cavities or eaves.
Fox Squirrel: Larger and less likely to enter structures but still a concern in yards with large trees or sheds.
Where Squirrels Build Their Nests—and Why It’s a Problem
When female squirrels prepare to give birth, they search for secure, insulated spaces to raise their young. In nature, they often use tree cavities or build nests with twigs, leaves, and other soft materials high in trees. However, human homes offer even better shelter.
Attics, soffits, and wall voids are prime real estate for squirrels. Once inside, mother squirrels tear up insulation, chew wiring, and create noisy, messy nests. Their pups grow rapidly and may return the next season to nest again—meaning a single squirrel family can lead to multiple generations of damage if not addressed.
Squirrels and Your Yard: What’s Attracting Them
It’s not just shelter that draws squirrels near your home—it’s food.
Bird feeders are a well-known squirrel magnet. Squirrels often raid feeders, spilling seed and attracting other wildlife in the process.
Gardens, especially those with berries, nuts, vegetables, or fruit-bearing shrubs, are irresistible to squirrels gathering food for their young.
Fallen acorns, insects, and even pet food left outside serve as easy meals.
Compost bins and unsecured trash cans can also offer an unintended buffet.
If your yard is full of food sources, you’re more likely to see multiple squirrels gathering food and scouting nesting spots nearby—like your attic.
The Real Cost of Baby Squirrels in the Home
As pups grow, their movement, chewing, and waste can cause escalating damage:
Chewed electrical wiring (a serious fire hazard)
Torn insulation and contaminated attic spaces
Damage to shingles, vent covers, and fascia boards
Repeated nesting as young squirrels return
Because squirrels breed twice a year, missing the early fall nesting cycle often means you’ll face another wave in late winter.
Signs You Might Have a Squirrel Nest in Your Home
Scratching or scampering sounds, especially at dawn or dusk
Noises in attic spaces or wall voids
Chewed openings near rooflines or vents
Droppings or strong odors in attic insulation
Increased squirrel activity on your roof or around your gutters
If you suspect a nest of baby squirrels in your attic, it’s important not to simply seal up holes—doing so can trap young squirrels inside, leading to worse outcomes.
September is the Time to Take Action
This early fall window is critical. Most pups are old enough to move, but still reliant on their nest. Acting now can prevent new generations from taking hold in your home and reduce the risk of winter breeding season reinfestation.
If you’re hearing signs of life in your attic, noticing increased squirrel traffic in your yard, or finding gnawed holes on your property, it’s time to investigate.
Special Offer on Squirrel Removal This Month
Concerned about squirrels nesting in your home? Don’t wait until winter. Check out our [September Special: Squirrel Services] to learn more about this month’s special and get professional help before the next litter arrives.