Rats and mice roof rats aka black rats often build nests in attics.
How to get rid of critters in the attic.
When possible exclusion tends to be easier since you don t have to directly handle the animal.
Because they need water daily they tend to nest where water is readily accessible.
You will discover that some of the critters have died inside the attic thus you must get rid of such and allow the animals to leave before setting your trap.
The other method is to use one way exclusion doors that let them exit the attic but not get back in.
You have to remove the animals or they will never leave the attic.
These tactics have been ruled fraudulent by the ftc and they do not work.
Install vent covers over soffit vents if they are uncovered.
The best way to get rid of rats and mice is to use the classic wooden snap traps or bait traps.
The best means is by trapping and relocating the squirrels.
Finally add heavy duty steel screens over attic vents.
I bought more than a dozen havahart 1079 traps in my first year of business and all but one of them are still in use today.
To use this method seal up all entrances to the attic except the main one and cover it with a one way door.
Make sure you listen to the sound generated by the critters if the sound is thumping scurrying or rolling especially during day time then you may probably have rodents in the attic.
When sealing openings in your home make sure to cover a few inches of space around the edges to prevent rodents from gnawing away and breaching the seal.