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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.

The time it takes for termites to damage a house varies, but it generally does not happen within days or weeks. Significant structural damage typically takes several months or years to occur, with serious damage often taking 3 to 8 years. The rate of destruction depends on factors like the termite colony's size and maturity, the type of wood they are feeding on, and local conditions. It can take 3 to 5 years for damage to become visible and 5 to 6 years for the home's structural integrity to be compromised. However, some species, such as Subterranean termites, are more destructive and can cause extensive damage in as little as 2 years. Because of this risk, it is important to treat your home as soon as you notice any signs of termites.

To find a quality professional and avoid pest control scams, it's important to do your homework before you hire. Start by reading customer reviews or getting a direct recommendation from a friend, neighbor, or family member. Once you have a shortlist of top-rated companies, verify that each pro is licensed and insured. It’s also a good idea to get multiple price quotes from vetted pros to find the best deal.

Like many other rodents, squirrels can be a little difficult to get rid of (especially in the case of an infestation), but the best approach is to make the place as unattractive to squirrels as possible. If you do have an infestation inside your home, then professional help may be necessary so you can lay as many traps as possible.