From rats to roaches, pests are more than just a nuisance. They can carry diseases and contaminate your food supply. However, despite the dangers they pose, pests can be difficult to spot. If you are unsure if your home is facing a pest problem, this article will cover seven signs to watch out for.
Sign #1: Droppings
If there is any sure-fire way to tell if pests have taken up residence in your home, it is the finding of droppings. Droppings can come in many shapes and sizes, depending on the type of pest. For example, mouse droppings are small and spindle-shaped while rat droppings are larger and more tubular in shape.
Roach droppings look like specks of pepper and are often found near where the roaches congregate. No matter what the shape or size, if you find droppings in your home, it is a sign that pests are present, and it could be worth contacting your local trusted pest control company.
Sign #2: Evidence of gnawing
Rats, mice, and other rodents are known for their sharp teeth which they use to gnaw on wood, plastic, and even metal. If you find evidence of chewing or gnawing in your home, it is a sign that you may have a rodent problem.
Be sure to check around baseboards, behind appliances, and in attics or crawlspaces for evidence of gnawing. Moreover, keep an eye out for burrows or nests which rodents often make in these same areas.
Sign #3: Unusual stains or smears
Pests often leave behind stains or smears as they travel along surfaces in your home. For example, you may find dark stains on floors or walls which are actually rub marks made by rodents as they travel. These rub marks usually indicate the presence of a large number of pests as they all follow the same path.
Alternatively, you may find smears on surfaces which are made by insects like slugs or snails. If you come across any unusual stains or smears in your home, it is a sign that pests are present and active.
Sign #4: Unusual noises
No, it’s not paranormal activity, it’s pests! Many pests, such as rodents and insects, are active at night when you are asleep. As a result, you may hear them scurrying about or buzzing around your home. If you start to hear strange noises in your home, it could be a sign that pests are present.
Depending on the type of noise, you may be able to pinpoint the location of the pests. For example, if you hear rustling in your walls, it is likely that rodents are present. If you hear a high-pitched buzzing noise, it is likely that insects are present.
This information will also be worth noting down in case you choose to contact a professional for help.
Sign #5: Unusual odors
Pests can also leave behind an unusual odor. For example, rats and mice often leave behind a musky smell. This is because they mark their territory with urine in order to ward off other pests. If you start to notice an unusual odor in your home, pests may be closer than you think, and it is worth taking action.
Sign #6: Dead pests
Of course, finding a dead pest in your home is never a good sign. This means that not only are pests present, but they are also dying in your home. Dead pests can attract other pests which will only compound the problem.
If you find a dead pest, be sure to clean it up immediately and take action to prevent further infestations. In the case of dead pests, you will also want to handle it with caution by wearing the right protective gear.
Alternatively, leaving it to a professional could save you the hassle and keep you safe in the process.
Sign #7: Damage to your home
Pests can cause a lot of damage to your home both on the interior and exterior. From chewing through wires to destroying insulation, pests can cause a lot of problems.
If you start to notice any damage in your home, do not overlook this as it could indicate a pest problem that will require your attention. Be sure to pay close attention to where the damage is occurring as this will help you determine what type of pest is causing the problem.
Final thoughts
If you notice any of these signs in your home, it’s important to take action immediately and contact a professional for help. Pest problems can quickly become out of control and cause serious damage to your home. By taking action early, you can prevent further problems and keep your home pest-free.
If you have any concerns about pests in your home, be sure to contact a professional for help. They will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. In the meantime, take a look around your home for any of the signs listed above.
If you notice any of them, don’t hesitate to take action and contact a professional. Remember, the sooner you handle the situation, the better!
