Searching for Solutions to Noises in the Attic

Scurrying and scratching noises in your attic not only cause distress and anxiety to some people but are also a very strong indication that rodents or other wildlife have taken up residence there. Attics are the perfect environment for squirrels, rodents and bats because of the dry and warm conditions they provide.

Any noise should be investigated as soon as possible because the nests and droppings of these pests become ideal breeding sites for many species of insects as a secondary infestation.

Just as important is the damage rodents and squirrels can do to your home – and to anything stored in your attic - not to mention the possible fire hazard associated with their constant gnawing of wood or electric wiring.

The first step is to inspect your attic and look for visible signs of rodents or other wildlife, the most common of which is droppings. The age of the droppings indicates whether the infestation is currently active or not.

Fresh droppings are ‘shiny’ whereas older droppings are dry and dull. Older droppings may indicate an old or seasonal infestation which should still be prevented from re-occurring.

Identifying Pests Droppings

• Mouse Droppings - Thin and spindle shaped with a pointed end and less than ¼ inch long.
• Brown Rat Droppings - Blunt spindle shaped averaging between ¼ and ½ inch.
• Black Rat Droppings - Pointed sausage shape average length ½ to ¾ inch.
• Bat Droppings - Dark brown or black and about ¼ inch long. They look very similar to mouse droppings but bat droppings crumble into a fine powder when crushed whereas fresh mouse droppings are softer. Bat droppings are also found on walls.
• Squirrel Droppings - Similar to the Brown Rat dropping but slightly rounder averaging from ¾ to 1 inch in length.

What to do about Animals in the Attic

Although many homeowners struggle with do it yourself pest control remedies the results are often less than satisfactory. Small problems can develop into large ones and this is when many people seek out the services of a pest control professional.

Presto-X technicians are skilled, experienced professionals – they are state certified, licensed applicators and are required to participate in regular training programs to maintain their expertise. They understand the habits of each species and use that knowledge when developing a control program for your home. They also have respect for you, your home, your family and your time.

At Presto-X Pest Control, we pride ourselves on fast, responsive service every day. We are always available 24 hours a day for any emergency pest concerns that may develop and all appointments are scheduled at times that are convenient for you - our customer.