Get matched with top pest control specialists in Sparta, IL

Q: What scents are most effective at deterring squirrels?

• <div><p>Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell and are deterred by a variety of scents. Some of the most effective smells for repelling them include peppermint oil, coffee grounds, white vinegar, garlic, cinnamon, rosemary, and predator urine. They also have a strong aversion to capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, making capsaicin-based sprays an effective repellent for areas like gardens or bird feeders. For a DIY solution, you can create a spray from garlic and vinegar and apply it daily. Additionally, squirrels dislike strong, fresh scents, so placing items like strong-smelling soaps or dryer sheets in areas they frequent can also help keep them away.</p></div>

Q: What do foxes hate the most?

• <div><p>Foxes hate strong scents and sudden disturbances. They dislike the smell of ammonia, vinegar, garlic, chili peppers, and predator urine, which can make an area less appealing. Motion-activated lights and sprinklers also unsettle them, as foxes prefer to avoid sudden movements and bright lights. Additionally, they are wary of loud noises and unexpected sounds.</p></div>

Q: What's the difference between fruit flies and gnats?

• <div><p>While the term &ldquo;gnat&rdquo; is often used as a blanket term for tiny flying insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies, they are different insects. The primary distinctions are in their appearance, diet, and habitat. Fungus gnats are typically darker (gray or black) with long legs and are attracted to damp soil and decaying plant matter, often living in houseplants. In contrast, fruit flies are lighter in color (tan) with shorter legs and are drawn to overripe fruit, high-fructose organic substances, and other sweet materials.</p></div>

Q: What is the main cause of bed bugs?

• <div><p>There are a few main causes of bed bugs. You can pick up bed bugs through traveling since these pests can hide in the seats of buses, taxis, airplanes, and other vehicles as well as seats at restaurants, hotels, and other public places. Bed bugs can also travel on purses, backpacks, luggage, and other bags. Another main cause of bed bugs is multi-unit housing, such as apartment complexes or college dorms.</p></div>

Q: How can I tell what kind of animal is in my attic?

• <div><p>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:</p><ul><li><p><b>Sounds</b>: 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.</p></li><li><p><b>Droppings</b>: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat&rsquo;s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you&rsquo;re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you&rsquo;re seeing in your attic.</p></li></ul><p>When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Pest Control pros in Sparta, IL

*The Angi rating for Pest Control companies in Sparta, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Pest Control needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Pest Control companies in Sparta, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Pest Control needs.

Last update on May 23, 2026

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Healthy Home Pest Control & Services

4.4(

385

)

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Even though my dryer has not complained about the vent clogging up, I can't be assured that there won't be further problems because the people from Healthy Home Pest Control & Services cleaned the dryer duct from the outside and did not do so from inside my house. I would have preferred to be there during the appointment. It's wonderful that I didn't even have to be home but I left work early and wasted my leave."

Response time9 hrs

Response rate91%

495 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1974

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Service representative was very knowledgeable about lawn, shrub, and pest control."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Terminix® Pest Control

4.0(

)

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

When pests show up, so do we.\n\nFor nearly a century, Terminix® has been one of America's most trusted names in pest control. Every day, our exterminators serve thousands of homes and businesses nationwide, combining national service with local knowledge to provide best-in-class, proactive pest management solutions. We stop problems before they start and respond quickly if issues arise, keeping your property protected.\n\nAnd for extra peace of mind, if pests come back, so do we‐guaranteed.\n\nThe Terminix It Guarantee means that if pests come back, so do we to re-treat at no additional cost. No excuses, just a commitment to care for your home like it's our own with protection you can trust.3

32 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Recent purchases for termites and pest control. Time will tell if they got it right."

Recommended by83%of homeowners

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Terminix provides excellent pest extermination and mosquito control services. They investigate and give comprehensive treatment services. I highly recommend their services."

Recommended by85%of homeowners

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Easton's Wildlife and Mole Control

4.0(

)

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"David was very easy to work with and flexible. These types of services can obviously be costly and this was no exception. But, between repairing raccoon attic damage, installing hardware to prevent future gutter, garage, and attic damage, I had certainly called David again in the future if I had further issues with 4-legged pests."

+14

Response time3 hrs

Recommended by80%of homeowners

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

When it comes to protecting homes, Terminix has satisfied more customers than any other insect and pest control company in the industry, with more than 15 million service visits annually.

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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Little Egypt Pest Control, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

At Little Egypt Pest Control, we are the heartland's premier source for quality pest control services. Locally owned and operated by a well experienced and friendly staff. We are proud to serve our community and provide a pest free environment for residential homes, commercial business, and the general public. Our mission is to create a comprehensive program and long lasting relationship with our customers.\n

Response time2 hrs

Response rate100%

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Serving Sparta, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"United Air Temp was able to procure a replacement furnace controller board in a couple of days and Zachary was out within 4 days of the initial visit. The furnace now works very well."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Pest Control questions, answered by experts

Squirrels rely heavily on their sense of smell and are deterred by a variety of scents. Some of the most effective smells for repelling them include peppermint oil, coffee grounds, white vinegar, garlic, cinnamon, rosemary, and predator urine. They also have a strong aversion to capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, making capsaicin-based sprays an effective repellent for areas like gardens or bird feeders. For a DIY solution, you can create a spray from garlic and vinegar and apply it daily. Additionally, squirrels dislike strong, fresh scents, so placing items like strong-smelling soaps or dryer sheets in areas they frequent can also help keep them away.

Foxes hate strong scents and sudden disturbances. They dislike the smell of ammonia, vinegar, garlic, chili peppers, and predator urine, which can make an area less appealing. Motion-activated lights and sprinklers also unsettle them, as foxes prefer to avoid sudden movements and bright lights. Additionally, they are wary of loud noises and unexpected sounds.

While the term “gnat” is often used as a blanket term for tiny flying insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies, they are different insects. The primary distinctions are in their appearance, diet, and habitat. Fungus gnats are typically darker (gray or black) with long legs and are attracted to damp soil and decaying plant matter, often living in houseplants. In contrast, fruit flies are lighter in color (tan) with shorter legs and are drawn to overripe fruit, high-fructose organic substances, and other sweet materials.

There are a few main causes of bed bugs. You can pick up bed bugs through traveling since these pests can hide in the seats of buses, taxis, airplanes, and other vehicles as well as seats at restaurants, hotels, and other public places. Bed bugs can also travel on purses, backpacks, luggage, and other bags. Another main cause of bed bugs is multi-unit housing, such as apartment complexes or college dorms.

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.

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