Have you ever heard strange rustling sounds inside your walls and wondered what kind of critter might be causing the disturbance? While both mice and squirrels can make themselves unwelcome houseguests, knowing how to tell them apart is key to solving the problem quickly. By learning their different behaviors, sounds, and entry methods, you can better identify the culprit and take action.
Rustling, Squeaking, or Chittering?
Hearing strange noises in your walls is one of the first signs of an intruder, but the type of noise can offer clues. Mice, though small, can create more noise than expected when they scurry, sometimes leading homeowners to think they’re dealing with something larger. Their vocalizations are often inaudible to humans, but they do emit high-pitched squeaks.
Squirrels, on the other hand, are much more vocal, making it easier to identify them. They chatter, bark, whistle, and squeal—all sounds that are very noticeable to the human ear.
Time of Day: Night Owls vs. Day Dwellers
When you hear these sounds can also be a key indicator. Mice are nocturnal and usually active at night, which means you’re more likely to hear them while trying to sleep. Squirrels, being diurnal, are active during the day. If the noises you’re hearing are primarily during daylight hours, you’re likely dealing with squirrels.
Droppings: A Telltale Sign
Droppings are one of the most reliable ways to differentiate between mice and squirrels:
- Mouse Droppings: Small, seed-like, and typically about a quarter of an inch long with tapered ends.
- Squirrel Droppings: Larger, about 3/8 of an inch long, with blunted ends. They may also contain visible pieces of undigested food and appear bumpier than mouse droppings.
Entry Holes: The Size of the Hole Matters
The size of the entry point can also tell you what type of critter is sneaking into your home:
- Mice only need a hole the size of a dime to squeeze inside.
- Squirrels need a hole around 2 inches in diameter. If they can’t find one, they’ll chew or scratch their way in, leaving noticeable marks around the opening.
Solving the Mystery
By listening for different sounds, observing the time of activity, and examining droppings and entry points, you can determine whether mice or squirrels have taken up residence in your home. Once you’ve identified the pest, taking the right steps to evict them becomes much easier.
Not sure who’s causing the ruckus in your walls? Contact Modern Pest today at 1-800-323-7378 or request a free quote to ensure your home stays critter-free!