Top 5 Signs You Have a Wildlife Problem in Your Home
No one wants to think about uninvited guests living in their home, especially when those guests are of the furry or scaly variety. However, wildlife infestations are more common than you might think, especially in West Michigan where animals like raccoons, bats, squirrels, and rodents often seek shelter in houses. Identifying the signs of a wildlife problem early can save you from costly repairs and health risks. Here are the top five signs that you might have a wildlife problem in your home.
1. Strange Noises, Especially at Night
Hearing unusual noises like scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds—especially in the attic, walls, or basement—can indicate a wildlife issue. Many animals are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. For example:
Rats and mice often make scratching or gnawing sounds inside walls or ceilings.
Bats may cause a fluttering sound as they exit or re-enter your attic.
Raccoons and squirrels are larger and can make thumping or bumping noises as they move around.
These sounds can often be subtle at first, but ignoring them could lead to more serious problems as the animals make themselves at home.
2. Unpleasant Odors or Droppings
If you've noticed a foul smell in a particular area of your home, it could be a sign of an animal infestation. Wildlife droppings have a strong odor, and they can accumulate quickly if animals are nesting nearby. Some telltale signs include:
Droppings in the attic, basement, or along walls, which can indicate rodents or bats.
A musty or ammonia-like smell, which is often a sign of a rat or mouse infestation.
Strong, pungent odors from a dead animal that has gotten trapped in the walls or attic.
Not only are droppings and odors unpleasant, but they can also pose health risks to your family due to bacteria and parasites they may carry.
3. Damage to the Home’s Exterior
Animals often have to chew, claw, or dig to get into your home. If you see any signs of physical damage to the outside of your house, you might be dealing with a wildlife issue. Common areas where damage might occur include:
Chewed or torn vents, soffits, or roof shingles, which are common entry points for raccoons, squirrels, and bats.
Gnawed electrical wiring or chewed pipes near the foundation, often indicating rats or mice.
Damaged insulation or shredded materials in the attic, which animals use to make nests.
Even small openings can provide an entry point for wildlife. Once inside, these animals can cause significant damage to your home.
4. Nesting Materials or Signs of Burrowing
Wild animals looking to make a comfortable nest in your home may bring in nesting materials or dig tunnels around your property. Keep an eye out for:
Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in attics, basements, or storage areas.
Burrows or tunnels near the foundation, which could be signs of rats, groundhogs, or other small mammals.
Leaves, twigs, or other natural materials being brought inside to build nests.
Spotting these signs means the animals are likely setting up a more permanent residence, so it’s essential to act quickly to avoid a larger infestation.
5. Sightings of the Wildlife or Their Tracks
Of course, actually seeing wildlife inside or near your home is a definite red flag. Whether it’s a raccoon scurrying across the attic or a snake in the basement, spotting the animal itself is a sure sign you have a problem. Additionally, you might notice:
Footprints, claw marks, or tracks inside the house, particularly in dusty areas.
Grease marks or smudges along walls or baseboards, often left behind by rodents.
Feathers or fur caught on rough edges, entry points, or in storage areas.
If you see any of these signs, it’s a clear indication that animals have found their way inside.