If you’ve been hearing scratching, scurrying, or other unusual noises coming from your attic or walls, wildlife has likely made its way into your home. These sounds are often a sign that rodents, squirrels, raccoons, or even birds have made their home in your walls or attic. So, how do you know when it’s time to call a wildlife control expert instead of waiting it out or trying to handle it yourself? In this post, we’ll answer that question and explain why it’s essential to reach out for professional help before the problem gets worse.
When Should You Call a Wildlife Control Expert?
Hearing strange noises like scratching or scurrying in your attic or walls can be unnerving, but how do you know when it’s time to call a professional?
Identifying the Signs of an Infestation
The first step in determining if you need wildlife control near me is recognizing the signs of an infestation. Noises like scratching and scurrying are often associated with rodents such as rats or squirrels, but bigger animals like raccoons can also make thumping or thudding sounds when moving about. If you hear these noises during the night, it could be because these animals are nocturnal and more active at that time.
Look out for other signs, such as:
- Droppings: Animal droppings are one of the clearest indicators of an infestation.
- Chewed wires or insulation: Animals chew on things to build nests or to keep their teeth from growing too long.
- Nesting material: You may find torn-up paper, leaves, or fabric in areas such as your attic or walls.
When DIY Is Not Enough
Many homeowners believe they can handle a wildlife issue on their own, but this can lead to more problems in the future. For example, animals like rats and raccoons can cause significant structural damage, gnawing through wires and insulation. They can also carry diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and rabies, which can be hazardous to both humans and pets.
Attempting to trap or remove wildlife without the right tools and knowledge is risky. If you encounter a protected species, such as certain birds or bats, some laws prevent you from removing them yourself. That’s why reaching out to a qualified Bergen County wildlife removal service is the safest choice to ensure your home is properly and humanely dealt with.
Is It Safe to Plug Holes or Clean Droppings Yourself?
If you suspect wildlife is living in your home, it can be tempting to start cleaning up or plugging holes to keep the animals out. But should you?
The Dangers of DIY Cleanup
It’s essential to understand the risks associated with cleaning up animal droppings or plugging holes yourself. Animal droppings can carry harmful diseases, and without the proper protective gear, you could expose yourself to these pathogens. Additionally, cleaning up droppings without first addressing the infestation could make the problem worse by disturbing the animals.
Sealing holes or entry points before a professional has inspected your home can also lead to complications. If you block one entry point, the animals might just find another way in. Worse yet, they could get trapped inside your walls or attic, causing more damage and stress.
The Right Time for DIY Work
While it’s not advisable to clean or seal holes before the professionals arrive, there are a few steps you can take safely. For instance, temporarily block obvious entry points with steel wool or tape (just don’t seal them off completely). You can also remove any accessible food sources, such as pet food or open garbage, which might be attracting the wildlife.
What Kind of Guarantee or Follow-Up Should You Expect from a Wildlife Control Service?
When you call a professional for wildlife removal Bergen County NJ, you want to ensure that the problem is handled correctly and won’t return. Here’s what you should expect from a quality wildlife removal service:
A Strong Guarantee for Peace of Mind
A good wildlife removal company should offer a solid guarantee on its work. This means that if the wildlife returns within a certain period, they will come back and handle the situation at no extra cost. Before hiring a wildlife control company, ask about the specifics of their guarantee, including its duration and the scope of coverage.
Ensuring Long-Term Prevention
The best wildlife control services don’t just remove the animals; they also ensure that the problem won’t recur. Expect a thorough inspection of your home to identify and seal all potential entry points. They may also advise on keeping food sources sealed and provide tips on maintaining your home to avoid attracting more animals.
Follow-up inspections or services, such as the installation of repellents, are also crucial in preventing future infestations. A reputable Bergen County wildlife control company will work with you to ensure the animals stay out for good.
Conclusion
Hearing scratching or scurrying in your walls can be alarming, but it’s important not to ignore it. While waiting might seem like a quick fix, calling a wildlife control professional as soon as possible can save you from expensive damage and health risks in the long run. If you’re in Bergen County and suspect you have wildlife in your home, don’t hesitate to contact Kritter Catchers NJ, a wildlife removal expert who can handle the situation safely and effectively.
Call to Action:
If you’re hearing scratching in your walls or attic, it’s time to act. Contact us today for an inspection and humane removal of the animal. Don’t let wildlife damage your home or put your family’s health at risk!
