From the sounds of gray squirrels to bat guano, recognizing signs of animals in your home can prevent health risks and unwanted home repairs. Whether they're heard at a specific time of day or noticed through destructive behaviors, these critters can carry harmful diseases. Sometimes you can remove them yourself, but when in doubt, don't hesitate to get the attention of a wildlife specialist who can offer safe, efficient solutions.
Signs You Have Animals in Your Attic
1. Evidence of Scratching and Chewing
"Look for signs of scratching and chewing. Many animals, particularly rodents, will gnaw on just about anything they can get their teeth on," notes Meg Pearson, Training Manager at Critter Control. "If you notice signs of gnawing on your attic fixtures that weren’t previously there, it’s very likely you’re dealing with a rodent of some kind in your attic."
She adds, "You should also check to see if any attic insulation has been chewed or ripped up; rodents will often use insulation materials and other things from around your attic to help build nests for their litters."
If you're considering DIY trapping and removal, consider the risks. "If you see any rodent indicators in your attic, it is best to have a professional address them sooner rather than later," recommends Pearson. "It may not seem like much damage, but rodents are known to chew on electrical wires which can not only lead to costly repairs and replacements but can also cause dangerous electrical fires. Although these animals are small in size, the calamity they can create for you is large."
2. Unexpected Smells
Whether it's from bats, mice, chipmunks, or other pests, take their hint. Any type of animal can leave behind odors from nesting materials and feces. "The thing you’ll smell throughout your house, even when wild animals are contained only to your attic, is the pungent scent left by animal waste," notes Pearson. "If you catch this lingering, unpleasant smell throughout your house that never quite seems to go away, it is likely the scent of animal droppings being carried from the attic into the traditional living spaces through the home’s ventilation system."
3. Strange Noises
- Daytime sounds: "If you have a rodent problem in your attic, you’ll likely hear scratching noises or scurrying during the daytime, especially in the mornings," shares Pearson. "This is likely the sound of them scampering around your attic, going from point A to point B. Mice will often make a high-pitched squeaking noise that can help you quickly identify a problem from below."
- Nighttime sounds: "If you notice that sounds only come from the attic in the nighttime hours, you may more likely be dealing with a bat problem," she adds. "Bats sleep during the daylight hours and become most active at night; if this describes your situation, you may want to have your attic and home inspected for bats by a professional."
Dare to DIY? How to Get Rid of an Attic Infestation Yourself
If you have a rodent problem, you can try to handle it with store-bought bait traps. "Be aware that mice multiply very quickly, meaning a mouse problem can get out of hand in just a few months," notes Pearson. "If you have any doubt, it may be best to enlist the help of a professional right off the bat. If you find that you’ve discovered the problem after it’s already been happening for a while, you might be in for more than you expected."
Other animals, like birds and bats, have a much more complicated removal process. "It often needs to be carefully coordinated in accordance with state and local laws; it is best to get the help of a seasoned wildlife control operator in these instances," notes Pearson. Common animals like rodents and bats often enter through ridge vents or other openings, drawn by the promise of warmth and protection, especially during the fall and winter. Not only will a professional help to remove the pests, but they'll also inspect your ceiling and attic space, soffits, and gable vents for holes and other visible damage. Signs of damage indicate where bats will be entering your attic at night.
Can attic invaders pose health risks?
Oh, yes. Animals like rodents and bats can carry harmful diseases transmitted through droppings or direct contact. Their nesting materials and waste can contaminate insulation and air circulation, causing potential respiratory issues for homeowners. Professional critter removal not only eliminates the infestation but also minimizes health risks by safely sanitizing and restoring your space.
