Since your attic is typically uninhabited, hearing noises coming from that area can be unsettling. Most of the time, if a creature finds its way into your attic, you will know it’s there. You may just hear it a few times a day, or it could be skittering around constantly looking for a way out. Our Des Moines pest control team has seen every kind of pest that roams in the attic, so we can help you identify what’s up there. Here are the signs of the most common attic-dwelling pests:

The Sounds of Rodents or Squirrels

House mice and roof rats, two common rodents that enjoy dark, solitary places, are some of the most common critters that find their way into attics. Rodents scurry about, and in some cases, they may create nests. While these creatures sometimes make quiet noises to communicate, scurrying noises will be the telltale sign. Since rodents are experts at hiding, another step you can take is to look for long black droppings. Squirrels have similar habits, but they have larger, rounder droppings. Squirrels also tend to destroy insulation if left unattended.

Sounds of Birds

You might enjoy listening to birds on a relaxing walk outside, but hearing chirping through your ceiling is an entirely different story. Thankfully, bird sare not great at hiding. Pigeons accidentally make their way into homes by flying through cracked attic windows, broken vents, or holes in the roof. Then, they make a lot of noise trying to find their way out. Listen for flapping and chirping, and look for nests. If you find the bird before it lays eggs, try opening a window to let it out. If the eggs have already been laid, it is against federal law to remove those eggs. Our team at Pro-Staff can help you figure out next steps if this is the case.

Signs of Raccoons

Of all the creatures that will make their way into the attic, racoons are by far the noisiest and most destructive. While raccoons will not build nests with natural materials, they will destroy insulation and tear apart ducts while trying to find a way out. They will make scampering noises, just like rodents and squirrels. Unlike the quiet squeaking sound rodents make, raccoons will make a series of sounds, like purrs, whimpers, whinnies, hisses and screams. 

If you find yourself hearing noises in the attic and want to get it checked out, our Des Moines pest control team at Pro-Staff can help you find peace and quiet. Give us a call at 515-279-7379 or contact us online.