Wild animals often make dens in attics that offer shelter from cold weather, rain, and snow. Mothers frequently raise their babies in attics between March and October. If a wild animal is living in your attic, you may hear or see tell-tale signs. Here are some tips to help you identify the type of animal living in your attic and figure out what to do.
Tell-Tale Signs of Squirrels and Raccoons in Your Attic
The animals that are most likely to be living in your attic are squirrels and raccoons. If you hear noises during the daytime, it is probably a squirrel, since they are only active during the day. If you hear noises in your attic at night, there is probably a raccoon or a flying squirrel there since they are nocturnal.
If you are not sure what type of animal you have in your attic, you can look around for clues. If it is a squirrel, you may see leaves or nuts around the attic. You may also see smooth and oval-shaped droppings. If a raccoon is living in your attic, you may see “latrines,” or areas where it urinates and defecates. You may see an oily stain on the ceiling in the area below the attic.
You can sprinkle a 6 to 8-inch wide band of all-purpose flour around the perimeter of your attic and look for footprints the following day. Squirrel tracks are 1 to 1 ½ inches long, and raccoon tracks are 2 to 3 inches long.
What to Do If a Mother and Babies Are Living in Your Attic
If you hear noises that you believe are caused by a mother and babies during the birthing season, it is most likely a temporary situation. They will probably leave on their own when the babies are old enough to be somewhat independent. It is best to let them stay until then. If you trap the mother, she will be unable to feed the babies. They can be left behind in a place where you cannot find them and starve to death. Waiting for the animals to leave on their own can help you avoid having dead or dying young in an inaccessible place such as inside your walls.
How to Get Rid of a Wild Animal in Your Attic
If an animal is living in your attic, you should not try to trap or handle it yourself because you could get bitten. Call the professionals at Anderson Wildlife Control. We will live-trap the animal and move it to another location. Contact us today to get an estimate.
