It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:
Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.
Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.
When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.
No, you shouldn’t have to worry about bats in your yard as long as they don’t make their way inside your house. Typically, bats hang around backyards in order to consume bugs, especially if they’re located in the U.S. Bats that are native to North America can consume more than 500 bugs per hour, so they may actually benefit your yard if mosquitoes are prevalent.
Signs include visible nests, droppings, frequent loud noises, or structural damage caused by these animals, indicating a need for pest control intervention.
Some animals, such as bats or birds, will be able to get out of chimneys on their own since they can fly. Other animals, however, may have a harder time and will require the help of a professional to escape. Squirrels and raccoons in particular may become stuck inside a chimney, especially if you have a buildup of soot or creosote inside. This can prevent them from being able to climb out, in which case you’ll need to call an animal control expert to help remove them.
You can take multiple approaches to keep animals out of your edible landscape. You can use natural repellents such as mint and cayenne pepper to deter them from your garden. You can also build a fence (or opt for a privet hedge) or keep the most enticing plants in a sectioned-off area. The most efficient method of keeping your four-legged guests at bay is to determine what animal it is and create a customized plan for them.
The Dennehotso, AZ homeowners’ guide to bird control services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Sometimes birds nest in unwelcome places. Find out how much bird nest removal will cost based on factors like location, bird species, and preventative measures.
