Dealing with pests inside the home is an unquestionable nuisance. When those pests invade your attic, however, the problem may seem even more difficult. Attics are warm, friendly spots for animals to hide, as there’s rarely anyone up there, and it’s dark enough for them to shelter and come and go as they please. According to the pest control and critter removal experts at Aardwolf Termite & Pest Control, of Bessemer, AL, there are several signs to be aware of if you’re concerned there’s an intruder in the attic.

3 Signs That You Have Pests in the Attic

1. You Hear Scratching Sounds

The most telltale giveaway is the noise you hear from above. Usually, these sounds are most prominent at night, which is typically due to nocturnal animals that set up camp inside and start scurrying once it darkens. In addition to scratching, you might hear thumps, running, or screeches.

2. You Smell Unusual Odors

The longer pests remain in the attic, the more likely it is that you’ll detect an odor of their droppings. Some animals, such as bats, produce very strong scents. If an animal dies in the attic, you’ll likely smell that, too. Since attics are humid, tightly enclosed spaces, the potential for the stench to spread increases.

3. You Spot Insulation in Vents

Pests tend to gnaw away at the insulation inside the attic. This creates a mess in the attic that will require some attention after pest control services handle the critters. If they’ve torn away at enough of the material, you might spot the insulation peeking out of the vents. You may also notice that your heating and cooling system isn’t as effective as usual. If that’s the case, the animal may have torn through the ducts.

If you hear unusual noises or have a suspicion that an unwelcome visitor is making itself at home in your attic, it’s important to contact a pest control professional immediately. The critter removal team at Aardwolf Termite & Pest Control will thoroughly inspect the area and ensure that the space is properly treated to prevent it from happening again. Visit the company’s website to learn more about their wildlife and pest removal services, or give them a call at (205) 338-6615 to speak with a friendly staff member.