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Setting up an animal trap in your yard largely depends on where you live and the type of critter you're dealing with. In many states, trapping nuisance animals like squirrels, rats, or raccoons is allowed, sometimes without needing a permit. However, certain wildlife species are protected, and not all states have lenient catch-and-release regulations.

Before placing a trap, check your local laws to avoid fines or other legal issues. Some areas allow DIY trapping, while others may require professional assistance. Most areas require a professional to relocate the animal once trapped. Consulting a pro ensures you handle the situation responsibly, humanely, and within the law.

To determine if you have a rat or mouse infestation, look at the size and appearance of droppings—rat droppings are larger, about the size of a raisin, while mouse droppings are smaller and rice-sized. Rats are bigger and have thicker bodies, while mice are smaller, with slender bodies. You may also hear different sounds; rats make louder scratching and gnawing noises due to their size. Additionally, rats tend to be more cautious, whereas mice are more curious and might be seen more often.

If you suddenly have an infestation of gnats in your house, don’t worry, it’s relatively easy to spot the cause and resolve it quickly. Gnats are drawn to moisture and decaying organic matter, so they love to snack on unsealed produce, flowers, plants, and food or liquid spills. A common spot to find gnats is inside your kitchen sink drain because it provides a hospitable environment for them to live and breed.

The difference between fruit flies and gnats is the foods they eat. Fruit flies eat overripe fruit and high-fructose organic substances. Fungus gnats live in the soil and feed on houseplants. Both are quite small, but if you can discern their appearance, you'll also notice that fruit flies are a lighter tan color, while fungus gnats are a darker gray or black.