Trees, roofs and old vents
West Highland's tree canopy is a highway for squirrels. Branches overhanging roofs let them reach soffits and gable vents, and older homes with wood fascia give them soft places to chew in. Raccoons climb downspouts and use chimneys or the space under porches as dens, especially in spring when they have young.
Tudor homes have steep roofs and small attic spaces under the eaves that are hard to reach. A squirrel that dies in an eave can leave a smell over a bedroom ceiling with no easy access. Basements are common, and older foundation windows and wells can let mice and rats in at ground level.
Matching the smell to a likely spot
- IfThe smell is over a top-floor bedroom near the eavesThenSuspect the attic edge or a soffit; look for squirrel activity on that side of the house.
- IfThe smell is at the fireplaceThenSuspect the chimney; keep the damper shut and have it inspected from the top.
- IfThe smell is in the basement near a window wellThenCheck the well and the wall around the window for a rodent or bird.
- IfThe smell is near the back porchThenLook underneath for a den or burrow; a raccoon or skunk may be involved.
Spring checks for West Highland homes
Quick reference
- Big trees near the roof
- Squirrel highway; trim branches back several feet.
- Uncapped chimney
- Birds and squirrels fall in; fit a mesh cap.
- Open space under the porch
- Possible den for raccoons or skunks; screen it after confirming it is empty.
- Window wells
- Cover them to keep animals from falling in.
Common questions
Can I just close the chimney damper and wait?
Closing the damper limits the smell indoors. Waiting is reasonable for a small bird, but larger animals and nests should be removed from the top by a chimney professional.
Do I need a permit to trim my tree?
Trimming a private tree is usually fine; check Denver's rules for street trees in the right-of-way before cutting.
General information for Sloan's Lake, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.