What’s That Noise in the Attic? Common Wildlife Invaders inIndianapolis Homes
It often starts with something small—a faint scratching in the attic or the sound of
movement overhead at night. But these little signs may mean big trouble: wild animals
have found their way into your home.
Indianapolis homes often attract unwanted guests, including raccoons, squirrels, bats,
and opossums. These frequent intruders aren’t just noisy—they can rip through
insulation, chew on wires, and put your family’s health and home at risk.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s behind those nighttime sounds, here’s what you need to
know.
Wildlife Invaders in Central Indiana
Indiana’s mix of wooded areas, suburbs, and changing seasons makes it a prime
environment for wildlife. Animals seeking food, shelter, or a nesting site often end up in
human structures, particularly during the colder months or early spring.
Here are some of the most common wild animals AAA Exterminating encounters in
Indianapolis homes:
ï‚· Raccoons
Highly intelligent and curious, raccoons are strong enough to tear
through vents and roofing materials to reach attics. Once inside, they may rip up insulation, leave droppings, and carry diseases such as leptospirosis.
ï‚· Squirrels
Squirrels may seem harmless, but they’re expert climbers and chewers. Once indoors, they often gnaw on wooden beams or electrical wiring, creating a serious fire hazard.
ï‚· Opossums
Often found under decks or in crawl spaces, opossums can bring fleas and parasites, and may hiss or play dead when threatened.
ï‚· Bats
Bats can squeeze through tiny openings to access attics, chimneys, and basements. While they rarely bite, their droppings (guano) can spread harmful fungal spores, like those that cause histoplasmosis.
Signs You Have a Wildlife Problem
Most homeowners never see the animals directly. Instead, they notice strange sights,
sounds, or smells.
Watch for these warning signs:
Scratching, scurrying, or thumping sounds, especially at night
Droppings or nesting materials in attics or garages
Damaged siding, vents, rooflines, or insulation
Foul or unfamiliar odors indoors
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call for a professional wildlife inspection.
Why Professional Wildlife Removal Matters
Wild animals are unpredictable, and DIY removal can be risky. Many species are
nocturnal and may react aggressively if cornered. Others are protected under state law
or require specific handling procedures.
That’s why AAA Exterminating uses a humane, comprehensive approach to wildlife
removal:
Thorough inspections
to locate entry points and identify the species
Live trapping
using safe, ethical methods
Exclusion work
to seal off re-entry routes
Cleanup and sanitation
to remove droppings, urine, and nesting debris
Humane Trapping and Ethical Relocation
AAA Exterminating is committed to protecting both your home and Indiana’s native
wildlife. Whenever possible, we use non-lethal methods, such as live traps, to safely
capture animals without causing harm.
Captured wildlife is:
- Relocated to designated release areas approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- Referred to rehabilitation partners if injured or orphaned
We proudly work with organizations like Hoosier Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation
to ensure every animal gets a second chance.
Preventing Future Wildlife Problems
The best way to deal with nuisance wildlife is to stop it before it starts. AAA
Exterminating provides follow-up and prevention services such as:
Sealing cracks, gaps, and vents
Installing chimney caps and wildlife-proof screens
Replacing damaged insulation or siding
Call the Wildlife Experts at AAA Exterminating
Don’t let animals damage your home or threaten your family’s safety. AAA Exterminating provides fast, effective, and humane wildlife removal across Indianapolis and surrounding areas.
As a trusted pest control company in Indianapolis, Indiana, we help protect homes,
families, and wildlife ethically and effectively.