Hearing strange noises coming from your walls? Noticing damage inside or outside your home? You might have an uninvited critter taking up residence in your walls. From scratching to scurrying sounds, various animals can invade your home in search of warmth and shelter. But how can you tell what’s causing those unsettling noises? This blog will help you identify the culprits and provide guidance on what to do next.
Common Signs of Animals in Your Walls
f you’re hearing sounds coming from the wall, especially at night, it’s crucial to determine which animal might be responsible. Different animals have distinct behaviors and entry methods. Here are some key signs to watch for:
Squirrels: Active during the day, squirrels make scurrying or skittering sounds, often in the attic. If you hear these noises while you’re awake, squirrels could be the culprits.
Mice: Mice are nocturnal and can be heard chewing on food containers or wires. Their droppings are small and rice-shaped, a clear indicator of their presence.
Rats: Also active at night, rats make louder noises compared to mice. Their droppings are about half an inch long. You might hear them running through pipes or walls.
Raccoons: If you’re wondering, what do raccoons sound like? Raccoons are larger animals, so the sounds they make are often louder and more distinct. They may be heard scratching or thumping as they move through your home, usually at night.
How Do Animals Get Into Your Walls?
Animals can find entry through any opening, such as damaged roofs, loose soffits, or open windows. Gaps around pipes and doors are also common access points. To prevent these invasions, ensure that your home is well-maintained and free of easy entry spots.
Identifying the Intruder
Still unsure what animal is in your walls? Here’s how you can narrow it down:
- Check Entry Points: Squirrels chew small holes, while raccoons create larger openings. Inspect your home for these signs.
- Examine Droppings: As unpleasant as it may be, the appearance of droppings can help identify the animal.
- Monitor Activity: Note when the noises are most frequent. Sounds in the wall at night usually indicate nocturnal animals like mice, rats, or raccoons.
- Look for Prints: Sprinkling flour around the suspected area can help reveal animal tracks.
What to Do Next
If you suspect an animal has invaded your walls, it’s essential to act quickly. Attempting to remove them yourself can be dangerous due to the risk of bites, diseases, and potential damage to your home. The safest and most effective solution is to contact a professional wildlife removal service in San Antonio.
At Critter Evictor, we specialize in humane and efficient wildlife removal. Our trained experts will identify the animal, safely remove it, and take measures to prevent future infestations. Don’t wait until the problem worsens—contact us today to ensure your home is critter-free.