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Rats are attracted to homes that provide food, water, and shelter. Common attractants include uncovered garbage, pet food left out overnight, crumbs and food spills, and easily accessible pantries. They’re also lured in by leaky pipes, standing water, and cluttered areas like basements or garages. Outdoor factors such as overgrown vegetation or woodpiles near the foundation can create additional nesting opportunities.

Skunks are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are primarily active at night, particularly around dusk and dawn. Their activity levels increase as the weather warms up, and they are generally dormant or inactive during the winter. Skunks are especially active during the spring months when they are foraging for fresh food and seeking mates. While they are typically not seen during the day, daytime activity is possible if a skunk is having trouble finding food, has babies to care for, or is severely ill.

Groundhogs love to eat a variety of plant matter. This includes beans, peas, sunflowers, tender greens such as leafy vegetables, clover, dandelion, and alfalfa, and sweet fruits such as apples and berries. Groundhogs eat up to a pound and a half of plant matter each day, so household gardens often become their prime target.

As a general rule, if you hear an animal in your attic, don’t assume it will stay there. Animals are drawn to warmth and food sources, which could lead them to other parts of your house. In particular, it’s likely that small pests such as rats and mice that only need tiny gaps to squeeze through will end up in your walls and ductwork. Larger animals like raccoons may be limited to an enclosed attic.