Warning! That’s NOT a Bird Nest, But A Potential Threat

Ah, spring, the time when nature throws a fabulous party, and everything comes to life again! But what is that in my tree????

Spring brings back the robins, bluebirds, and sparrows doing their aerial ballet around nests in our yards, laying eggs, and playing the role of vigilant parents. We've got nests popping up in our trees, and, of course, the not-so-adorable wasps' nests around our gutters. But those balls of leaves in your tree aren't nests for birds or wasps.

You spot a clump of leaves in a tree during spring, and you think, "Ah, a cozy bird's nest!" Well, don't bet on that cause you might be mistaken! Those leafy bundles are the VIP lounges of the animal kingdom, known as dreys.

According to the geography gurus at Geography Realm, these are the secret hideaways for squirrels. Picture a saucer-shaped, shallow leafy paradise where squirrels play hide-and-seek, raise their young, and enjoy a good nap, rain or shine.

But here's the kicker: dreys often start as nests. Squirrels don't let a good bird-made nest go to waste. They add a touch of leafy luxury, turning it into a drey fit for a squirrel king or queen. And bare branches? Pfft, those won't cut it for the squirrels. So, they pack on the leaves, turning dreys into the hottest springtime accommodations.

Now, if your birdfeeders are experiencing a squirrel invasion, take a peek at the trees in your yard. Odds are, you've got a drey, and your squirrels are planning their next buffet in your yard! Be careful these cuties are destructive, and not just for your yard and plants.

According to Critter Control: Squirrels can squeeze through a hole the size of a golf ball. Squirrels chew through soffits, fascia boards, siding, wood, metal, and shingles to gain access to your attic. Once inside your home, squirrels damage attics by chewing wires, ripping up insulation, and defecating in the attic.

Happy springtime squirrel spotting!