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This varies based on the circumstance. Chemical-based pest control baits and poisons are usually the most potent, but they are unsafe to use around children and pets, so they won’t be a fit for every household.

Safer alternatives, such as boric acid and food-grade diatomaceous earth, can work as well, though they should still stay out of reach. Aside from that, the best thing any DIY-er can do is make their place uninviting by sealing off entry points, eliminating clutter, and maintaining a clean home.

Identifying the specific animal running on your roof at night can be challenging without direct observation. Common nocturnal roof visitors include raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and rats. Raccoons are bigger and can create heavy thumping sounds. Squirrels are agile and may produce rapid scurrying noises. Opossums tend to move stealthily with less noise. Rats can make scratching or gnawing sounds. To determine the culprit, look for signs like footprints, droppings, or damaged areas near the roof. For accurate identification, consult a pest control professional or set up wildlife cameras near potential entry points.

Deer rely on scent to tell them what’s safe and unsafe, so effective deer repellents have to be pungent. Make your own natural repellent by combining a beaten egg, one tablespoon of cooking oil, one tablespoon of dish soap, and a half cup of milk. Pour it into a spray bottle and spray around your garden, avoiding anything you will want to eat later. This stinky repellent will ward off any deer that want to make your produce their next meal. But keep in mind that if your windows are nearby, the scent may waft over.

Ladybugs and nematodes eat fleas outdoors. In fact, ladybugs can eat an average of 50 bugs each hour. If you see them outdoors, avoid causing them harm to help you keep unwanted pests away.