Critters in the Attic: FAQ

Are you wondering what to do if there is an animal in your attic? Maybe you started hearing noises in your attic. If you have confirmed that there are indeed animals in your attic, there are many questions you may have. An experienced pest control company would love to help you identify the type of pests you have, and even perform an attic cleanout and install new pest control insulation.

FAQ About Pests in Attic

Here are some FAQs regarding pests in the attic to help you gain more insight.

How do critters get into the attic?

Many pests such as mice and other rodents gain entry to your home via small gaps on the outside of your home. In reality, small pests can gain entry through your home through gaps as small as ¼ for bats or even mice. Rats can pass through via mesh wires bigger than ½.

Squirrels, opossums, rats, and other pests look for various opportunities for nesting. Your home’s attic and other unfinished areas may offer these pests a safe, dry place to hide from predators. If you have tall bushes or trees that have grown close to your roof, this can give them easy access to holes, etc.

What animal is most likely in my attic?

Several animals can be found living in the attics of both homes and businesses. Depending on the type of noises you hear, and whether you hear them during the day or night, it can help you determine the type of animal living up there.

Squirrels are more active during the day and right before sunset. Mice are nocturnal, so you are probably going to hear them at dusk, dawn, and late at night. Raccoons are also nocturnal, although they can sometimes be active during the day. You will discover that their noises are loud and sound more like heavy walking.

Bats are nocturnal and only make little noises, although you may hear occasional crawling or squeaking. Opossums are rather quiet and active at night. They will usually sound like small animals walking through the attic.

When should I use a professional exterminator?

Whenever you have animals living in the walls or attic of your home, it is always wise to contact a professional exterminator. There could be a nest of babies you are not even aware of. In some cases, toxins or even rabies may be present. Unless you are trained and have the right equipment, you should avoid removing wildlife on your own, including damaged insulation or waste.

What should I do once an infestation occurs?

Besides calling an exterminator, you will probably want to confirm that you indeed have an infestation. Some signs include:

  • Rodent droppings
  • Scratching noises or moving in the walls
  • Evidence of nesting materials
  • Stale smells from the accumulation of animal waste

The best thing to do is to prevent an infestation from occurring before it even happens. An exterminator will try to prevent further access before cleaning up the infestation remnants.

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