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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.

There is often confusion between fleas versus ticks, bedbugs, carpet beetles, lice, fungus gnats, and flea beetles. Learning how to identify and differentiate between these insects is key for effective treatment. If you are unsure, it's always best to consult with a pest control professional who can properly identify the pest and provide the best treatment options.

Earwigs may look scary with their pincers, but they don’t pose a serious threat to humans or pets. They are not poisonous, do not sting, and rarely bite or pinch unless handled. While they are not known to transmit diseases, their presence can signal underlying moisture problems in your home, such as mold, water damage, or rotting wood. A large infestation can become a nuisance, and certain species may emit an unpleasant odor. Therefore, while earwigs themselves aren’t dangerous, a large number of them may indicate bigger issues that should be addressed by a pest control professional.

The best hornet repellent includes a variety of essential oils such as peppermint, clove, geranium, and lemongrass, all of which have a pungent smell that hornets can’t stand.