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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.

Spiders are most active during the warm spring and summer months. During this time, most spiders emerge from their hiding places to lay eggs and hunt for food. However, each species of spider is different and some are more active than others. Stay vigilant for signs of spiders in your home once the weather begins to warm.

Certain strong smells may help repel bats, though this is not a foolproof method and is best used in conjunction with other deterrence strategies. Scents like peppermint oil, eucalyptus, cinnamon, cloves, and mint are often suggested as natural remedies. To create a spray, you can mix two cups of warm water with half a cup of sugar and a few drops of your preferred essential oil. Apply this mixture using a spray bottle to possible entry points and throughout the affected area, such as an attic. While this home remedy is popular, evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited.

The time and number of treatments required for an exterminator to get rid of roaches depend on factors like the roach type, infestation severity, and extermination method. For small infestations, a single treatment may be sufficient, showing results within 1 to 3 days. However, most cases require several treatments and take about 2 to 8 weeks to resolve completely. Severe infestations can take up to 6 months to fully eliminate.