Got Pests, Monroe? How to Get Rid of Mice, Bats and Squirrels

By David Bisaillon | Envirocare Pest Control (Open Post)

On an almost daily basis I receive calls from homeowners concerned about strange noises coming from their attic. Most if not all noises coming from the attic can be attributed to either rodents, bats or squirrels.

Here’s how to tell the difference before you call a pro:

• Bats normally make a noise that sounds like what you would think flapping wings sound like when then are hitting a wall.
• Mice usually will either make a light scratching noise or a light muffled scamper.
• Grey squirrels which are usually only active dawn to dusk make both scratching noises and
• heavy sounding scampering noises.
• Flying squirrels which are active at night make a characteristic thump as they land on the roof ‘ and then a scampering noise.

When you hear noises in your attic and investigate the area you will find feces in most cases. The feces you find will in all cases identify your noise maker, as the feces from the preceding animals are each unique.

If you are unable to find any fecal matter go outside and check the roof line for chew marks, chewed oval holes near gutters, damaged gable vents, damaged roofing and, of course, the animal (more than a few times we have caught grey squirrels red handed as they leave the scene).

If you suspect that a raccoon may be your visitor call a pest control professional ASAP. Raccoons are incredibly strong and will retaliate if cornered (especially if young are present). Also remember there is a biohazard when dealing with fecal matter so do not handle it under any circumstances.

There are ways of keeping pests out of your attic, too. Here at Envirocare we can install a special type of insulation, called TAP Insulation, which offers a special pest control benefit (along with the usual energy savings) which helps to keep bats, mice, squirrels, and other pests out of your attic. This type of insulation is only available to pest control professionals, however, and we’d be happy to evaluate your situation to determine if this special type of insulation would be right for your home.

If you find that you need help from a pest control professional you can give me a call at 203-791-2692 or toll-free at 888-879-6481 or visitwww.envirocarepestcontrol.net. Good luck!

Photo: Flickr Creative Commons