Pests can lurk in the darkest corners of your home and go undetected for some time. Below are some common rodent infestation culprits. Get to know their roosting, nesting and breeding habits, the threat they create to your home and find out if it’s time to call in an Arizona pest control specialist.

Arizona Pest Control — Bats and Bat Removal

These relatively inoffensive creatures help maintain nature’s balance with their diet, which consists mainly of insects and fruit. When outside, bats are useful creatures that contribute to the equilibrium of the ecosystem. When they take over your attic, however, bats can create an Arizona pest control problem and professional bat removal may be necessary.

Bats like to be close to their choice water and food sources. The darkness and warmth of your attic is a prime location for roosting.

If you find one bat in your home, removal could be as easy as closing off most of the entryways to your home, opening a window and encouraging it to fly out. However, bat removal for a group of bats or the bat that just won’t leave should be handled by wildlife control specialists. Under no circumstances should you ever handle a bat, as some may be rabid.

Rodent Infestation in the Attic — Squirrels

Squirrels love to nest in the attic, which allows them quick access to your food sources. A rodent infestation of squirrels can also lead to the destruction of electrical wiring, woodwork and insulation.

Aside from the nuisance and potential structural damage, squirrels carry several diseases and parasites, including plague, rabies and West Nile virus. The spread of such illnesses can occur through exposure to feces and urine particulates, without physical contact.

Arizona Pest Control — Pigeon Roosting in the Attic

If a pigeon finds refuge in your attic, do-it-yourself removal is next to impossible. A rodent infestation of pigeons is a complete annoyance and a serious public health problem. Pigeon removal and exclusion should be carried out by professionals with experience dealing with this type of pest control.

You can prevent further rodent infestation of this form by installing spikes and other deterrents. Contact a qualified Arizona pest control company to walk you through the process of keeping pigeons out of your home.

Rodent Infestation in the Attic — Rats

Rats enjoy nesting in your attic for the same reasons as pigeons, squirrels and bats. However, rats breed year round, which means a simple pest control problems can quickly evolve into a widespread rodent infestation site. It doesn’t take long for rats to completely take over your home. They can destroy your home structure, electrical wiring and spread countless diseases through contact with their feces and urine.

Pest Control and Proofing

There are ways to determine whether you have pests in the attic. Keep an eye out for droppings and urine stains, as well as sounds of scratching and scurrying in the night. Check your woodwork, insulation and electrical wiring for any gnaw marks. Rats leave additional signs, including a musky scent and grease spots in high traffic areas.

Proper pest control employs preventative measures, such as sealing entryways to your home. Rats need an opening the size of a quarter, while bats only need ½ inch to enter your home.

You should also remove the motivation for pest to invade your attic by containing your food and water sources and keeping your trash bins tightly secured. Hire an experienced Arizona pest control specialist to help you pest proof your home.