Discovering an uninvited guest in your home can be a startling experience. It's easy to dismiss a strange scratching sound or a rustle in the attic as nothing, but these subtle clues are often the first sign that wildlife has found its way inside. In the Treasure Valley and beyond, various animals, including squirrels, raccoons, and even bats, can seek shelter in and around your property, especially as the seasons change.
Knowing what to look for and where to look can help you protect your home and prevent more significant issues down the road. This guide is designed to help you identify the common signs of squirrel and wildlife activity so you can respond quickly and confidently.
If you suspect an animal has already entered your home, it’s important to take action promptly. Contact our wildlife experts today to discuss your situation and find a solution that works for you. Call (208) 795-3298 or fill out our online contact form.
Noises in the Attic or Walls
Sound is often the first sign that something is living where it should not. Many animals make themselves known before you ever see them. You might hear:
- Scratching or scraping: This is often the sound of squirrels sharpening their teeth or moving nesting materials.
- Running or scurrying: Quick, light movements can signal squirrels, while heavier thumps could mean raccoons.
- Chewing noises: A distinct gnawing sound may mean an animal is trying to create or widen an entry point.
These sounds are most noticeable when the animals are active. Squirrels tend to be busy in the early morning and late afternoon, while raccoons and opossums are more active at night.
Chewed Entry Points and Materials
Wildlife often has to work hard to get into your home, and their efforts leave behind telltale marks. Look for:
- Damaged wood or siding: Fresh chew marks on roof edges, soffits, or trim boards are common entry points for squirrels.
- Bent or broken vents: Roof and attic vents are a frequent target because they are easy to chew through.
- Frayed wires: Electrical wiring can be damaged if animals chew on it while exploring or nesting.
Even a hole the size of a quarter can be enough for a squirrel to squeeze through. If you see these signs, it is important to address them quickly before the opening becomes larger.
Droppings and Foul Odors
Animal waste is one of the clearest signs of an unwanted guest. Droppings vary in size and shape depending on the species.
- Squirrel droppings are small, oblong, and dark brown, similar to large grains of rice.
- Raccoon droppings are larger, about the size of a small dog’s, and may contain seeds or undigested food.
A persistent bad smell in the attic, walls, or crawlspace can indicate urine buildup or, in some cases, a deceased animal. Odors often get stronger on warm days and can seep into living spaces. Besides the smell, droppings can carry harmful bacteria or parasites, so they should never be cleaned without proper precautions.
Tracks, Nests, and Outdoor Damage
Not all signs are indoors. Many wildlife problems start outside and slowly work their way in. Signs to watch for include:
- Paw prints in soil, mud, or snow: These can often be seen along fences, garden beds, or near sheds.
- Disturbed landscaping: Holes in the yard, dug-up garden beds, or overturned mulch piles may be from foraging animals.
- Nesting materials: Leaves, grass, twigs, or shredded insulation piled in gutters, chimneys, or under decks are a red flag.
Catching these signs early is key because outdoor activity often comes before indoor nesting.
Unusual Pet Behavior
Sometimes, your pets are the first to know you have wildlife nearby. Dogs and cats have sharper hearing and smell, so they may notice signs before you do. Watch for:
- Barking, growling, or whining at walls, ceilings, or specific corners of the yard
- Scratching or pawing at doors, floorboards, or vents
- Unusual interest in one area, such as staring intently or sniffing repeatedly
If your pets are consistently reacting to the same spot, it is worth inspecting further—especially if other signs are also present.
Why DIY Removal Isn’t Recommended
When you discover wildlife activity, the first thought might be to handle it yourself. However, removing an animal from your home is often more complicated and potentially more dangerous than it seems. Here’s why it's best to rely on experienced professionals:
- Safety Risks: Wild animals can become aggressive when cornered, especially if they are a mother protecting her young. They can bite, scratch, and spread diseases. Professionals are trained to handle these animals safely and humanely.
- Proper Identification: Correctly identifying the animal is the first step to effective removal. Different animals require different trapping and exclusion methods. What works for a squirrel may not work for a raccoon.
- Humane Handling and Relocation: Local and state laws govern wildlife relocation. Professionals know these regulations and can ensure the animal is handled and relocated safely, without causing it undue stress or harm.
- Preventing Re-entry: A professional wildlife removal service not only removes the animal but also identifies and seals all entry points to prevent future problems. They have the knowledge and tools to ensure your home is secure.
The DIY approach may seem more affordable upfront, but without the proper knowledge, you could risk injury, a failed removal attempt, and the animal's return. The safest option is to contact a professional who can identify the species, remove them humanely, and address entry points. For more information about targeted solutions, explore our squirrel control services or wildlife removal options.
Take Control of Your Property with Professional Support
When you’ve found signs of wildlife activity in your home or on your property, the best course of action is to call in the experts. Professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, identify the type of animal, and develop a safe and effective plan to remove it. They can also provide long-term solutions to help keep your home secure.
Don't let unwanted visitors cause damage to your home and peace of mind. For a comprehensive assessment and a safe, reliable solution, contact our team at Pestcom Pest Management today. Call us at (208) 795-3298 or visit our online contact form to learn how we can help.