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Having bugs in our houses is quite normal. However, if you notice a sudden uptick in quantity, there's often a reason behind it. Seasonal weather changes, particularly warm to cool, drive bugs indoors as they look for comfort. Structural damage to your home can open up new ways for them to get in, and a new water leak somewhere in the house can invite them to get comfortable.

Droppings from cockroaches, squirrels, mice, bats, and birds can resemble rat poop, making it easy to confuse one for another. Mouse droppings are smaller and more pointed, cockroach droppings resemble tiny black specks or ground pepper, and bat guano can look similar but usually crumbles into powder. Bird droppings sometimes have a similar shape, but often include white uric acid deposits. If in doubt, it’s best to consult a pest control professional for proper identification and removal.

Professional wasp removal methods vary depending on the wasp species, nest location, and the severity of the infestation. Professionals use a range of techniques, including high-grade insecticides, pesticides, aerosols, insecticidal dust, liquids, and vacuuming. After exterminating the wasps, the technician will remove the active nest to prevent re-infestation. For a major or pervasive wasp problem, it is recommended to hire a professional to handle the issue safely and avoid painful stings.

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.