What's That Noise? Signs Wildlife is Hiding in a Home

Even if they intrude into a house, animals will go to great lengths to stay cozy during winter. Some animals can squeeze through a hole no larger than a penny to get inside, while others require a larger opening. As a result, they can penetrate attics, walls, or crawl spaces. Among the creatures that have been known to make their way into homes are mice, squirrels, bats, rats, birds, possums, and even raccoons.

When they enter a home, they often cause significant damage to a house and put the owner and their family at risk. As a result, they must be dealt with as promptly as possible. The following signs can help homeowners confirm that wildlife has entered the house.

Loud noises in the attic

Not only can homeowners use suspicious noises to determine if there is wildlife in the attic, but the sound can also identify the type of species. Wildlife is mainly nocturnal; therefore, the noises can be heard more clearly at night. Based on the noises and the timing, homeowners can tell what animals live in the attic or under the house.

For example, raccoons are more active at nighttime, while squirrels are more active in the morning and like to jump. Hence, jumping noises early in the morning is a clear sign of squirrels living in the attic.

Wall scratching

Squirrels and raccoons sometimes make their way inside a wall and get trapped. Hence, they start scratching the walls. Wildlife frequently falls down the chimney and into a closed-off fireplace. For instance, this can occur when homeowners obstruct fireplaces but fail to close the chimney correctly. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other creatures might get trapped in this way. This may result in the animal starving to death. When you wall-off a fireplace, make sure the chimney is also securely sealed.

Noisy air ducts and vents

Wildlife can get into air ducts if there's a large enough hole for them to enter. The home's air and heating vents may be eaten by wildlife even if they consist of sturdy materials. Bird nests are commonly seen in vents as well. Every year, the ductwork should be examined to check that no animals live there. Regular inspections also ensure that they remain securely sealed to keep pests out of the building.

Hire a pest control service

Some people may try to eradicate these pests independently. However, this can be harmful to those unfamiliar with the proper methods. Rats and squirrels, for example, can be very protective of their territory, and they may use their fangs and claws to chase away intruders. Moreover, they may be tricky to catch, and many carry diseases, which adds to the risk. Therefore, calling a professional is the best line of action in this case.

Kinder Safe Pest Solutions offers 17 years of experience in commercial and residential pest control serving Manatee and Sarasota counties. Call (941)254-2180 today!