Question 1

How much does pest control cost?

Accepted Answer

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The cost of pest control services depends on various factors, but the average homeowner pays around $175, with a typical range of $100 to $500. Your final cost will be influenced by the type of pest, the size and severity of the infestation, and the number of treatments needed.

Service costs also vary by frequency:

One-time service: $300–$550
Initial visit for ongoing service: $150–$300
Monthly visits: $40–$70
Quarterly visits: $100–$300
Annual visits: $300–$550

For specific pest examples, getting rid of spiders typically costs between $100 and $300, whereas a termite infestation can cost from $230 to $2,500 or more, depending on the extent of the damage.

Question 2

How can I tell what kind of animal is in my attic?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 3

Should I hire an animal removal specialist instead of calling my local municipality?

Accepted Answer

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You might be tempted to call your local municipality to remove animals from your property, such as a groundhog burrowing in your yard or raccoons getting into your trash cans. However, they typically only remove domestic animals like dogs and cats from properties, or sick and injured wildlife that pose a public safety risk or health threat, such as a rabid animal. They typically do not capture or remove healthy wildlife.

Animal removal professionals have the tools, knowledge, and skills to trap and remove wild animals adequately and humanely. They also can relocate them correctly.

Question 4

Can cats be beneficial to a garden?

Accepted Answer

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While cats are great at rodent control, it is their second nature to use the soft dirt of your garden as a litter box. This can lead to the contamination of your food and the spread of disease in humans.

Question 5

In what states do armadillos live?

Accepted Answer

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The nine-banded armadillo is common in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and Mississippi. Their range has expanded over the years, and they now live as far north as Missouri, Kansas, and even southern parts of Nebraska.