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To keep animals out, you must prevent them from entering. As long as they can get in, the problem will persist. That said, consider making your attic less inviting using deterrents like motion-activated lights or ultrasonic devices. Additionally, keeping a well-maintained, clean, and uncluttered attic that you regularly inspect for activity may make the space less attractive to critters.

This depends on if their needs are being met. They'll likely return night after night if they have access to food, water, and adequate shelter. If this changes, they’ll look for another roosting spot. This is why bright lights and other dissuading factors often work when removing bats from a property.

Yes, predator decoys work to keep birds away, at least temporarily. However, if the decoy remains motionless in the same spot for a long enough time, the birds will eventually wise up and realize it's a fake. Keep changing the location of the predator decoy to ensure that the birds keep their guard up and maintain their distance.

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.