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When woodpeckers start banging on your walls or roof, they are probably looking for insects to eat, storing nuts for winter, drilling a hole to make a nest, or communicating with other birds to establish territory or find a mate.

The size of the hole can help determine the reason for the pecking. Small irregular holes are a result of insect hunts. Acorn holes are more consistently sized and often fitted with a nut in the middle. Nest holes are large and have rounded edges. If the bird is pecking to mark its territory or attract a mate, it may leave dents rather than holes, and the noise will stop when the mating season starts in spring.

Yes, it’s possible for bats in your attic to find a way into your living spaces. Until you can properly remove the bats, the best course of action is to keep the attic doors closed and any holes sealed. Evidence suggests bats follow the airflow in your home, so they may try escaping from the attic to other parts of the house.

Certain strong smells may help repel bats, though this is not a foolproof method and is best used in conjunction with other deterrence strategies. Scents like peppermint oil, eucalyptus, cinnamon, cloves, and mint are often suggested as natural remedies. To create a spray, you can mix two cups of warm water with half a cup of sugar and a few drops of your preferred essential oil. Apply this mixture using a spray bottle to possible entry points and throughout the affected area, such as an attic. While this home remedy is popular, evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited.

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.