Get matched with top pest control specialists in Bridgewater, SD

Look for consistent buzzing sounds, visible hives, or increased bee activity around your property.

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.

Aphid infestations happen when aphid-attracting plants like mustard and nasturtium are present, there’s a lack of predators, or plants are weak. Avoid plants that aphids love, and consider increasing natural predators that keep aphids at bay. Birds, wasps, and ladybugs play roles in balancing out aphid infestations, so add pollinator plants and habitats to your yard that attract birds and other aphid predators.

Even if you have extreme ophidiophobia (fear of snakes), don’t try to shoot or kill them with a shovel. Besides being pretty cruel, killing snakes in most states is illegal unless your life is at risk and many species are protected. 

Plus, you're putting yourself at greater risk using these techniques if it goes wrong and the now-angry snake is venomous.