Signs of Wildlife in Your Plumbing System

Wildlife, from squirrels to moles, can sneak into your plumbing system and cause serious issues. The last thing you want is to deal with the hassle of replacing pipes or repairing a burst one because it’s turned into a wildlife vacation spot. Here are a few signs that critters might be using your plumbing system as their home.

Strange Noises

If wildlife has made its way into your pipes, you’ll likely hear strange noises. These sounds can include rustling or scratching as animals move around inside the pipes, or even calls and chirps between creatures. The noises may be a sign that your plumbing is serving as a hidden home for local critters.

Foul Odors

Wildlife often uses plumbing as a makeshift bathroom, and their waste can create a strong, unpleasant odor. In addition, if an animal becomes trapped and dies inside the pipes, the smell can quickly become overpowering. This is a clear indication that something is wrong with your plumbing system.

Disrupted Water Flow

Have you noticed a sudden drop in water pressure? If so, it could be due to an animal creating a blockage in your pipes. A trapped critter can obstruct water flow, making it difficult for water to move freely through your home’s plumbing.

Visible Damage

Wildlife can cause noticeable damage to your plumbing system, such as bite marks on exposed pipes or small holes in the ground where pipes are buried. If you spot such signs, it’s a clear indication that animals have been chewing on your plumbing or disturbing the system in some way.

Water Leaks or Wet Spots

Leaks or wet patches around your pipes might be the first signs that wildlife has made its way into your plumbing. Whether an animal chews through a pipe or damages it while creating a nest, these leaks can lead to bigger issues if not addressed quickly.

Footprints or Traces

If you find animal footprints near your pipes, it could be a telltale sign of wildlife in your plumbing. You might also notice other signs like scat, fur, or gnaw marks that point to animals using your plumbing as a home or travel route.

Unusual Behavior of Pets

Pets can often sense things we can’t, so if your dog or cat starts acting unusually around the bathroom or areas where pipes run, it could be a sign of wildlife in your plumbing. Their sudden interest or agitation might indicate they’ve detected animals hiding in or around your pipes.

Critter Guard Can Help Keep Wildlife out of Your Plumbing System

The best approach when dealing with wildlife and your plumbing system is to prevent them from getting in in the first place. At Critter Guard, our wildlife control products can help prevent wildlife from gaining access to plumbing systems. To learn more about our wildlife control solutions, contact us today!