Get matched with top pest control specialists in Boscobel, WI

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.

Scorpions can climb walls with rough surfaces (like stucco siding). They need something to grip onto, which is why they can easily climb on clothes, comforters on beds, and other items in your home.

However, it’s worth noting that scorpions cannot climb clean glass. So if you have a hole or damaged area where scorpions are coming in, a temporary fix may be to secure a piece of glass over the area.

Typically, fleas won’t take up residence in human hair. Their natural preference is to live on the fur of animals, but they can bite and infest humans on a temporary basis. If there is a significant flea infestation in the surrounding environment, humans may inadvertently become a host. Again, though, this is a rare occurrence.

Like any other animal, rats are attracted to food sources, water, and shelter. Clean up food messes right away, don’t leave pet food out, and secure your garbage to make your home less appealing. Fix leaky pipes and dripping faucets, and declutter spaces that rats might think to nest in.