As maple seeds begin to fall across Toronto, the season’s first wildlife food crop is underway—and for mice and squirrels, it’s harvest time. If you’re hearing new noises in your attic, those seeds may be a clue.
Even though spring has been slow to warm up this year, signs of the season are beginning to show. One of the clearest indicators? The flutter of silver maple seeds—called samara—falling to the ground across Toronto. These helicopter-like seeds mark the start of a seasonal buffet for urban wildlife, including mice and squirrels.
Silver maples are among the first trees to drop their seeds, often weeks before other trees follow suit. Their seeds are larger than those of other maple species and are especially attractive to foraging animals. Squirrels frequently chew off whole clusters of seeds before they fall naturally, then collect them from the ground or rooftops—sometimes dragging them into attics, garages, and sheds.
As the season progresses, other maples like Norway and sugar maples will drop their seeds, followed later in the summer by nut-bearing trees like spruce and pine. For homeowners, this sequence of seed drops can trigger more than just seasonal yard cleanup—it can draw pests inside.
When Harvest Time Comes Indoors
Two-tone mice—commonly referred to as field mice, deer mice, or white-footed mice—are known to gather maple seeds and bring them indoors. These native mice are also the species that host black-legged ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease. While the mice themselves don’t transmit Lyme to people, the ticks they carry can. Ticks picked up outdoors can be brought closer to home, and even indoors, increasing the risk of bites—especially for kids or gardeners working close to the ground.
These mice often stash seeds in attics, wall cavities, and other quiet areas. If you’re hearing new sounds—scratching, chewing, or scurrying—it could be that your home has become a convenient storage site.
Is It Normal? Yes. Is It a Problem? Also Yes.
It’s common to see or hear increased wildlife activity this time of year. But just because it’s seasonal doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Once inside, mice and squirrels may settle in for much longer than the seed harvest. Even if you see activity outdoors, they may already be living indoors.
There are two primary species of mouse in Toronto homes:
- Two-tone mice (field mice/deer mice): Often carry ticks and forage seasonally.
- House mice (one-tone grey): More persistent, and usually found year-round inside homes.
What to Watch and Listen For:
- New noises in the attic or walls, especially in late spring
- Scratching or chewing sounds that coincide with maple seed drops
- Maple seeds or other debris stockpiled indoors
- Squirrels seen chewing roof edges or entering vents
- Mouse sightings inside, especially those with light bellies and dark backs (two-tone)
At Pest UnHABITAT, we specialize in identifying and sealing off entry points, humanely removing intruders, and helping you take back your space. We follow the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), using targeted and appropriate treatments—including rodenticides when necessary—while minimizing risks to people, pets, and the environment.
If the sounds in your attic arrived with the seeds on your lawn, it’s time to contact us.