Wildlife intrusion is a common concern for homeowners in Southern Maine, especially as local species search for warmth, food, and shelter. The most frequent invaders include bats, raccoons, mice, rats, squirrels, and occasionally skunks or opossums: all of which can bring contamination risks when they enter attics, basements, crawl spaces, and wall voids. Understanding their behaviors and recognizing early warning signs is key to preventing costly damage and potential health hazards.
Signs of Bats, Raccoons, Squirrels, and Rodents:
Bat-Related Warning Signs
- Guano (bat droppings) accumulating below entry points or inside the attic
- Strong ammonia-like odors
- Scratching or light fluttering noises in walls or ceilings at dusk or dawn
- Dark staining or greasy marks near tiny openings
Raccoon Warning Signs
- Heavy thumping or slow, deliberate walking sounds in the attic or chimney
- Torn insulation, shredded ductwork, or damaged attic vents
- Large droppings or strong, musky odors
- Evidence of entry points such as pulled-apart shingles or broken soffits
Rodent Warning Signs (Mice & Rats)
- Small droppings in cabinets, basements, or around food storage areas
- Chewed wires, boxes, and insulation
- Constant scratching or running noises behind walls or ceilings
- Grease marks along baseboards from frequent travel paths
Squirrel Warning Signs
- Rapid scurrying or scratching noises in the attic, especially early morning or late afternoon
- Chewed insulation, wood, or wiring as they create nests
- Small entry holes near the roofline, soffits, or vents
- Shredded materials scattered around the attic or pushed out onto gutters
- Droppings or strong, persistent odors in confined spaces
How to Prevent Wildlife Entering your home:
Seal Entry Points
Inspect vulnerable areas such as rooflines, soffits, foundation gaps, utility line openings, and damaged screens. Seal cracks, replace broken vent covers, and reinforce weak spots wildlife often exploit.
Reduce Attractants Outdoors
- Secure trash in wildlife-proof containers
- Keep pet food indoors
- Trim tree branches that provide roof access
- Remove yard clutter that can provide nesting sites
Maintain a Clean, Dry Interior
Moisture and leftover food can attract rodents. Regularly clean kitchen areas, repair plumbing leaks, and store pantry items in sealed containers.
Use Preventative Exclusion Measures
Critter-proof materials like hardware cloth, chimney caps, and attic ventilation covers create a long-term barrier against intrusion.
Inspections
Annual or seasonal wildlife inspections help identify vulnerabilities before animals move in. Professionals can identify subtle signs the average homeowner may miss.
If you notice strange noises, droppings, odors, or any signs of wildlife activity, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contamination from bats, raccoons, and rodents can become hazardous quickly, and the cleanup is best handled by trained professionals.
Critter Control of Southern Maine offers safe, eco-friendly wildlife removal and exclusion services that protect homes and families from disease risks while preserving local wildlife. If you suspect a problem, contact our team to schedule an inspection and ensure your home stays clean, safe, and secure year-round.