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To determine if you have a rat or mouse infestation, look for several key differences. The most obvious is the size of the rodent: rats are significantly larger with thicker bodies, while mice are much smaller and more slender. You can also identify them by their droppings; rat droppings are larger and rounder, about the size of a raisin, while mouse droppings are smaller, like a grain of rice, and often have pointed ends. Other signs include the sounds they make, as rats produce louder scratching and gnawing noises due to their size. Behaviorally, rats tend to be more cautious, whereas mice are more curious and might be seen more often. Additionally, rat nests are typically larger than those of mice. If you are unable to see the pest or find clear evidence, a professional inspection can provide a definitive identification.

Raccoons in a chimney sound like thumping, rustling, scratching, or scurrying. Because they can weigh as much as 20 pounds, they make noises that are noticeable and hard to miss. Plus, they have an average litter size of 3 to 7 kits, so you may hear what sounds like multiple animals thumping, rustling, scratching, or scurrying.

Squirrels hate anything that disturbs the peace in their nest. Loud noises, bright lights, and strong smells like cayenne pepper or mothballs will deter them from your attic. Spread these scents, add a strobe light, or use an ultrasonic repeller to keep squirrels from nesting in your attic.

Unlike termites, flying ants won’t cause structural damage to your home. Plus, they won’t sting or bite you. However, they are a nuisance and unsanitary to keep in your home, so it’s best to hire a pest control company to remove the flying ants from your house.