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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.

There’s little scientific evidence to suggest that homemade remedies to ward off wildlife are effective. But, often, when using them alongside other management techniques, it won’t do any harm to try. Suggestions include using urine-soaked kitty litter or sweat-soaked clothing items. Try applying them around your fence perimeters. Always read the instructions carefully for any commercially-bought repellents and opt for EPA-approved products. Multiple applications, especially after rain, are often necessary.

The fastest method to get rid of moles is, unfortunately, not the most humane one. Poison baits and traps are the quickest way to get rid of a mole infestation. 

However, the poison can be dangerous and even deadly to other visiting animals, such as birds, cats, and dogs. The toxins can even affect predatory birds who eat the moles after they've consumed the poison.

Most spiders are harmless or do little more than the equivalent of a bee sting. Prevention is the best option for more serious cases. Keep spiders out of your home when possible. When you find spiders, a spider nest, or egg sac, remove it quickly before an inquisitive pet or child gets involved. When children are old enough, teach them to recognize the few dangerous species of spiders and avoid them to prevent getting bitten.