Often, homeowners don’t know they have a pest problem until it becomes unmanageable. Many people miss the signs that pests are present and posing a threat. Learn about the signs to look for in your home or if you’re shopping for a home. Noticing the signs early can make the treatment process easier.
Signs of a Pest Problem
Noise: Sometimes, the first sign something is amiss is the noise. Pests in the attic or walls can make noticeable sounds, especially at night when the house is quiet. Mice and rats can make scratching, gnawing, and scurrying sounds. Large bugs can also make noises chirping or scratching. If you hear strange sounds while lying in bed at night, it’s time to investigate.
Droppings: Animal droppings are an obvious indicator of pests. Mouse and rat droppings are commonly seen in homes and look like dark grains of rice. Sizes can vary, depending on the species. Cockroach droppings can look like grains of dirt or coffee grounds.
Dead Insects: Where there are dead bugs, there are many more live ones. Check window sills and crevices for dead insects. If there are many of the same type, chances are good they have taken up residence in the home.
Nesting: Rats and mice are resourceful and will make nests out of anything they can find. If you find shredded materials or collections of material scraps, it may be a nest. The nest will look like a little bed for the rodents and will have droppings nearby.
Chew Marks: Even if you don’t see a nest, you may come across evidence that a rodent has been chewing on doors, cabinets, doorframes, baseboards and other wooden structures in your home. Rat teeth marks are about 1/8” in length. Mice teeth make smaller marks.
Smells: Sometimes homes simply smell odd. Different pests give off different odors, which can be difficult to diagnose if you don’t know what you’re smelling. A musty urine smell can indicate mice. An ammonia smell points toward rats. Roaches have been reported to smell like “fecal soy sauce.” If your home smells different or foul, it’s time to inspect the place.
Rub Marks: Mice and rats can fit through very small openings in walls and ceilings. As they force themselves through these crevices, oil and dirt from their bodies will leave greasy smudges behind on walls, floorboards, and ceilings.
Mole Hills: Outside mole hills can be an indication there are many insects present. Moles will only build their homes in areas with consistent food sources. If the moles have taken the time to build a home in an area, insects are abundant.
If you are encountering any of these signs in your home, it’s time to bring in a professional. Pest infestations are unsanitary and can lead to health problems. Keep your home clean and free of pests with reliable pest extermination from SafeHaven Pest Control.
