Do It Yourself Guide | Animals in Your Attic

Basic Steps You Can Take (With Caution)

While professional removal is often the safest and most effective solution, there are some preliminary steps you can take to assess the situation or prevent future issues. Always prioritize safety and humane treatment.

Always wear protective gear: gloves, mask, and sturdy clothing when dealing with wildlife.
Never attempt to handle wild animals directly without professional training. This can result in bites, scratches, and disease transmission.
Avoid using poisons or inhumane traps, as they can cause suffering and create more problems.
If you suspect baby animals are present, call a professional immediately. Removing adults without addressing babies can lead to orphaned animals dying in your home.
Identify the animal: Knowing what species you're dealing with helps determine the best approach.
Find entry points: Look for gaps, holes, or damaged areas where animals could enter.

Specific DIY Tips

Safe tips for basic prevention and identification

How to Identify Animal Tracks

Look for tracks around your property, especially near entry points. Different animals leave distinctive prints. Rodents leave small, paired tracks, while raccoons leave hand-like prints.

Inspect Your Attic

Look for signs of animal activity: droppings, gnaw marks, nests, stains, or damage to insulation. Check for daylight coming through gaps, which indicates entry points.

Secure Food Sources

Store pet food indoors, secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, and clean up fallen bird seed. Eliminate other food sources that might attract wildlife.

Basic Exclusion

Seal small gaps with steel wool or caulk. Use wire mesh to cover vents. Ensure chimney caps are secure. These basic steps can prevent animals from entering.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY methods can help with minor prevention, certain situations require professional expertise. If you have a significant infestation, dangerous animals (like raccoons or snakes), or if DIY attempts haven't worked, it's time to call the pros.

Request Inspection