Author Archives: The Bug Man

Some people think of squirrels as adorable nut-hoarding rodents with bushy, expressive tails. Others see them as cuddly creatures that they want as a pet. However, experts often categorize them as problem animals that overrun suburban neighborhoods. These general perceptions are augmented considerably when you have a squirrel wreaking havoc in your attic.

Usually, the problem starts with suspicious pounding or rustling noises that come from overhead. In an attic or confined space, squirrels can make a surprising amount of noise. It might even sound like someone is stomping on your roof. The noise level is one indicator of how destructive these critters are. Initially, squirrels will cause damage as they enter the attic through a soffit, vent or small opening. Then, they’ll go to work mutilating wood, insulation and electrical wires. They may even chew their way through the ceiling and into your family’s living spaces. This type of damage can happen unexpectedly because many homeowners have difficultly pin-pointing the source of the noise, since squirrels can be active in several parts of a home.

Of all the creatures that shouldn’t be stirring during your “T’was the night before Christmas” slumber, pests should be at the top of that list.

As to be expected when colder weather moves in, pests and any local wildlife will seek warmth and food. And what better place for shelter and easy access to food than your home. The most problematic of these pests however are mice.

These aren’t the mice that make for cute additions to your family that you could pick up at the local pet store. These are the kind of mice you never invited into your home, but still managed to make their way in. The kind that are a bother any day of the year, but during the more wintry times, they become even more troublesome. And sometimes lethal.

While birding is a favorite – and appropriate – pastime for many Arkansans, they’re not much fun to watch if they become a nuisance.

The Natural State provides habitats for hundreds of species. Sometimes their presence leads to the need for bird removal services, with the nature of these problems varying widely.