Why You're Hearing Noises in the Attic (and What It Really Means)
- Jon Amaral
- Dec 9
- 2 min read
Hearing Noises in the Attic?
As the weather cools in Massachussetts, you may be spending more time in doors relaxing, and begin to hear something - noises in the attic, especially at night.
This noise can be unsettling because it often means unwanted guests have moved in.
At New Bedford Pest Control, we get a huge increase in calls every fall in New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, and surrounding towns reporting scratching noises in the attic.
Here's what could be happening and what you should do before things get worse.
Mice Looking for Warmth
When temperatures drop, mice will look for a warm safe place to spend the winter and attics are a fantstic area for them to do so.
Mice can squeeze through holes roughly the size of a dime, the most common areas being around vents, pipes, door frames, or roof edges.
Signs of mice in your attic:
Light scratching or scampering noises (especially at night)
Small black droppings (rice-sized)
Chew marks on insulation or wood
About 90% of the calls we get regarding scratching in the attic are related to mice.
If a small mouse problem doesn't get resolved fast, you can have dozens quickly, even though they are small they should be taken seriously!
If you are postive you have a mouse problem see our rodent guide for more help!
Bats Settling in for the Cold
Massachusetts is home to several bat species that sometimes roost in attics during late summer and fall.
They're usually quiet during the day but can make fluttering or soft scratching noises at night.
If you see bat droppings (guano), you should call someone to investigate.
Bats are protected wildlife and require safe, legal exclusion methods that allow them to leave without returning.
Squirrels an Other Wildlife Nesting
Squirrels are notorious for nesting in attics during the fall.
Usually squirrels are much more active during the day than mice, so hearing continuous, louder scratching and rumbling noises during the day may be a clue that you have a squirrel issue.
Squirrels can cause extensive damage by chewing larger entry holes for themselves, especially around roof edges.
What You Can Do Right Now
Listen carefully: Note if the noises occur more at day or night time.
Inspect the exterior: Look for gaps and dark marks around vents, siding, or the roofline.
Be careful about blocking holes immediately: There is a possibility you may trap the animals inside, leading to more damage as they try to chew new holes to escape.
Call a professional: Getting an inspection from an expert is the best chance to find a safe and effective solution.
Conclusion: Find Someone Who Knows What They Are Looking For
At New Bedford Pest Control, we can help you find the answers you are looking for and figure out what's making that scratching noise over your bed when you're trying to sleep. Call us today to schedule and inspection!
Jon Amaral, ACE, PHE
New Bedford Pest Control
113 Allen Street
New Bedford, MA
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