Popular nesting areas outside of a home include eaves, porches, gutters, and chimneys. However, some birds can make their way into your attic or ventilation systems. A reputable removal service will inspect your home's interior and exterior for any evidence of roosting and nesting birds while they prepare to remove them.
Many different types of animals like to build nests in attics. The types may vary depending on your home’s condition and location and you can prevent them by sealing off entry points and eliminating food sources.
The most common critters that like to build nests in your attic include:
Raccoons
Bats
Squirrels
Mice
Rats
Both spikes and loose nets can be installed over nest sites to prevent the bird from returning, but nets are not a humane option since birds and other wildlife can get tangled in them.
Spikes are a humane alternative that deter nesting without harming the birds. In small areas, like vents, a very fine mesh net can be installed to prevent the bird from returning. These nets don't generally pose a risk to the birds.
Depending on the size of your home and accessibility, expect professional pest inspections to take between 30 and 60 minutes. If you have a large property or limited accessibility, pest inspections may take longer.
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.
The Condon, OR homeowners’ guide to bird control services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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