Squirrels are one of the most common pests for New Jersey residents. They chew through almost anything, tear up gardens, dig holes in lawns to hide nuts, and worst of all, go into your home. Squirrels use their natural climbing ability to get onto roofs where they look for ways into your home. Squirrels often nest in chimneys or in attics. Small cracks or breaks in roofing can be made larger so that the squirrels can enter your home. Litters of squirrels are born in the spring and fall and usually range in size from 3-6 offspring per season. Squirrels can cause a lot of damage to your attic, including causing drafts, leaks during rain, or fire hazards. Squirrels can carry a number of diseases, mites, and infections – such as the bubonic plague or squirrel pox. Squirrel pox creates tumors on the skin that can get infected or spread to vital areas of the body such as the lungs, kidneys, or liver. Tularemia and Leptospirosis are diseases commonly carried by squirrels spread by contamination or contact.