Even the most ardent animal lovers know there are some places critters just don’t belong—such as gutters. If you discover one in your home’s drainage system, it’s not the end of the world. In fact, after safely removing the animal, your gutters probably won’t need major work. Use the following guide to navigate this potential situation with minimal hassle.

What Animals May Nest in My Gutters?

If you happen to hear a scratching sound around the ceiling, you might wander outside to find a possum in your gutters. These nocturnal animals are known to birth litters after less than two weeks of finding a new shelter, at which point they will become much more defensive and aggressive. In this case, call a professional who can humanely capture and release the animal without damaging your home.

Depending on the time of year, you might also find birds nesting in your gutters. This resting place allows them to maintain a safe distance from predators on the ground, and it simulates the tight confines of their natural nests. If you hear birds chirping in your drainage system, avoid making contact—while the mother might act aggressively to protect her little ones, she may also abandon them after you transfer your scent by touching them.

In addition to these larger pests, it’s common to find a variety of insects making their homes in gutters, from wasps and hornets, to termites and mosquitoes. Since these can both damage your home and harm you, you should also call a professional wildlife or pest control service to remove the nests.

What Should I Do After I Find One?

After the animals have been efficiently and humanely removed by wildlife professionals, you can focus your attention on your gutters. In some cases, you may notice alignment issues such as sagging or pulling immediately. Even if there is no apparent damage, it’s important to have a gutter repair professional inspect your drainage system. Holes caused by sharp beaks, stingers, or claws could impede the channels from doing their job, as well as allow water to collect around your home’s foundation. While repairs may be necessary, the full replacement of your gutter system is unlikely.

If you suspect the presence of insects or animals in your gutters, get in touch with Bel-­Aire Home Improvement of Platteville, WI. They will send a trained professional to assess the state of your drainage system and make repairs as necessary. In addition to gutter services, they can also work on roofing, siding, and other aspects of your home’s exterior. For more information on their work, visit their website or call (608) 348-­2381 to make an appointment.