As a homeowner in New Jersey, you take pride in keeping your home safe, clean, and pest-free. But wildlife intrusions are sometimes sneaky, and it’s easy to overlook the subtle signs of an infestation. Whether it’s raccoons, squirrels, bats, or skunks, these critters can cause significant damage to your property and health if left unchecked.
At Kritter Catchers, we specialize in humane wildlife removal throughout New Jersey. Here, we’ll help you identify some of the top signs of a wildlife infestation you may be ignoring.
Key Takeaways
- Strange noises in the attic or walls could mean wildlife has invaded your home.
- Unpleasant odors might signal animal droppings or a hidden dead critter.
- Roof, siding, or foundation damage may indicate wildlife entry points.
- Nesting materials or droppings are strong signs of a wildlife infestation.
- Holes in your yard can suggest groundhogs or skunks are burrowing nearby.
1. Strange Noises in the Attic or Walls
Do you hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking in the attic or walls? These sounds, particularly at night, are often a tell-tale sign that animals like squirrels, raccoons, or mice have made a nest in your home. Wildlife typically seeks shelter in warm, dark spaces, and your attic is a prime spot for them to settle, especially during the colder months in New Jersey.
Ignoring these sounds can lead to major problems as these animals chew through wires, insulation, and structural wood.
2. Unpleasant Odors Around the Home
A sudden, foul odor in your home can often indicate wildlife presence. Animal droppings, urine, and even the stench of a deceased animal can leave a strong, unpleasant smell. If you notice an unfamiliar odor that doesn’t go away after cleaning, it’s time to consider wildlife as a potential cause.
Pay close attention to spaces like your crawl space, basement, or attic, where wildlife might be hiding.
3. Damage to Roof, Siding, or Foundation
Wildlife like raccoons or squirrels are surprisingly strong and can cause significant damage to your roof, siding, or foundation. Look for signs of chewed or torn shingles, loose siding, or small openings near the foundation, which could serve as entry points for these critters.
This damage may seem minor, but over time, it can lead to water leaks and structural issues. Homeowners in New Jersey often face higher repair costs if these issues are left unaddressed.
4. Nesting Materials or Droppings
Wildlife will often leave behind evidence like nests made from insulation, leaves, or paper. Finding these materials in your attic, garage, or yard should raise a red flag. Additionally, animal droppings are a strong indicator of an infestation. Mouse droppings are small and black, while raccoon or bat droppings are larger.
Not only are these droppings unsanitary, but they also carry diseases, like histoplasmosis, which can be harmful to humans.
5. Pet Agitation or Unusual Behavior
Your pets may sense wildlife before you do. If your dog is barking excessively at night or your cat is fixated on a particular area of the house, it could be a sign that animals are hiding inside or nearby. Pets often have a heightened sense of smell and sound, allowing them to detect intruders before humans can.
Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior—this might be an early warning sign of a potential wildlife issue.
6. Holes or Burrows in Your Yard
Not all wildlife invades your home directly. Some animals, like groundhogs or skunks, prefer to stay outdoors and create burrows in your yard. These critters can still cause issues by undermining your foundation, damaging your lawn, and even attracting other pests.
Look for signs of digging or tunneling around your yard, and don’t dismiss these holes as minor. They could be evidence of a growing wildlife problem.
7. Gnaw Marks on Wood, Wires, or Furniture
Rodents, such as rats or mice, need to chew constantly to keep their teeth from growing too long. This behavior often leads to gnaw marks on wooden beams, furniture, or even electrical wires. Electrical damage caused by rodents is not only costly but also poses a serious fire hazard.
Inspect areas like basements, attics, and garages for any signs of gnawing.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Wildlife Infestations
Wildlife may seem harmless, but ignoring an infestation can lead to expensive repairs, health hazards, and even structural damage. Animals can carry diseases like rabies and Hantavirus, and their presence may invite other pests like fleas or mites into your home.
If you suspect a wildlife infestation in your New Jersey home, it’s crucial to act fast. At Kritter Catchers, we use humane methods to safely remove wildlife and prevent them from returning.
FAQs
What are the most common signs of a wildlife infestation?
Common signs include strange noises in the attic or walls, foul odors, droppings, and visible damage to your home.
What types of wildlife do you remove?
We remove raccoons, squirrels, bats, skunks, groundhogs, mice, and other common New Jersey wildlife.
How do you remove wildlife from homes?
We use humane methods, including live trapping and exclusion techniques, to safely remove wildlife and prevent re-entry.
Do wildlife infestations pose health risks?
Yes, animals can carry diseases like rabies, Hantavirus, and fleas, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
Will the animals be harmed during removal?
No, we prioritize humane wildlife removal, using non-lethal methods to safely relocate animals away from your home.
Call Kritter Catchers for Professional Wildlife Removal
If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s time to call the experts at Kritter Catchers. We offer comprehensive and humane wildlife removal services across New Jersey, including areas like Bloomfield, Morristown, and Bergen County. Don’t let wildlife take over your home—schedule a consultation with us today!
