Get matched with top animal fencing pros in Absarokee, MT

It’s debatable, but most will say either termites or bed bugs are the hardest to remove. When dealing with termites, you must find the central nest (as opposed to satellite nests) and exterminate the queen and all potential queens, which often takes the work of a specialist. Bed bugs, meanwhile, are incredibly hardy, good at hiding, and resistant to pesticides, so it takes very careful, very thorough work to get rid of them permanently. 

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.

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.

If you discover a dead animal in your air ducts, address the issue promptly to prevent unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. Turn off your HVAC system to prevent further spread of contaminants and contact a professional HVAC technician or pest control specialist to remove the animal and clean the affected area. They have the tools and expertise to handle the situation, including removing and disinfecting contaminated ductwork. The technician will inspect the ducts for any damage or other issues that might have allowed the animal to enter.