Pests can be a major nuisance in any home, and Perth is no stranger to a range of pest problems. Many pests are skilled at hiding, and by the time you notice their presence, the damage may already be done. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some common and not-so-common signs that you might have a hidden pest problem.
Residential Pest Problems in Perth
The Perth climate creates the perfect environment for a range of pests to flourish. Insects and rodents can take refuge in your home without your knowledge and cause damage or, worse, spread even further throughout it.
In many cases, the early signs of a pest infestation are subtle, and homeowners might not realise they have a problem until it becomes more noticeable or costly.
This makes it crucial to stay alert for the hidden signs that pests may have moved in. Identifying these signs early can save you from significant damage, discomfort, or even expensive pest control bills down the track. Let’s delve into some of the most common signs of a hidden pest problem in your home.
Unexplained Noises
If you hear strange noises at night, particularly scratching or scurrying sounds in your walls or ceilings, it could indicate the presence of rodents or other pests.
Mice, rats, and other small animals are known to venture into walls, roof spaces, and attics in search of food, shelter, or warmth.
- What to listen for: Scratching sounds, thumping, or scurrying around late at night or early morning. This is especially common in the warmer months when pests are more active.
Rodent Droppings
Finding droppings is one of the most reliable indicators of a pest problem, especially if they are concentrated in hidden or hard-to-reach places like behind appliances, under sinks, or in storage areas. The size, shape, and colour of droppings can give you clues as to which pest is responsible.
- What to look for: Small, black pellets (mice), larger, cylindrical droppings (rats), or dark smear marks from cockroaches.
Bite Marks and Chewed Items
If you’ve noticed bite marks on furniture, wiring, or food packaging, your home might be infested with rodents. Rats and mice need to gnaw on things to keep their teeth from growing too long, and they will chew on almost anything — from wood and electrical wiring to insulation and plastic.
- What to check: Exposed wires, timber furniture, food packages, and even wall or ceiling insulation.
Damaged Wood
Termites are a serious concern, especially in areas with higher humidity or warmer temperatures. Termites are highly destructive and can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of your home before you even notice they are there.
- What to check: Look for hollow-sounding timber, small holes in wooden structures, or mud tubes along the walls of your home or around the foundation. These are the primary signs of termite activity.
Unexplained Stains, Smears, or Odours
Certain pests, such as cockroaches, rats, and even termites, leave behind distinctive odours or visible smears that can indicate their presence. Cockroaches, for instance, often leave dark, oily stains or streaks along the edges of walls, in kitchens, or around the base of appliances.
- What to check for: Unexplained stains or greasy streaks on walls, floors, or counters. An earthy or musty smell can also be an indicator of termites, while a pungent, urine-like odour may suggest rodents.
Presence of Nesting Materials or Burrows
If you notice nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or other materials in hidden areas of your home (such as behind furniture or inside walls), it may indicate that small rodents are taking up residence in your house. Likewise, burrows around the perimeter of your property can suggest the presence of pests.
- What to look for: Clumps of nesting materials such as shredded paper, insulation, fabric, or leaves in areas like attics, behind appliances, or in basements. For burrowing pests, look for small holes or tunnel-like formations in garden beds or around foundations.
An Increased Presence
Australia is home to a wide variety of insects and spiders, some of which can be a sign of a deeper pest problem. If you see large groups of ants, earwigs or other insects in areas where food is present (like kitchens), it may mean there’s an established infestation nearby.
- What to watch for: Ant trails leading to and from food sources, unusual numbers of insects, or a sudden increase in pests in the home. Carpenter ants, for example, can be a precursor to termites.
Visible Holes in Walls, Floors, or Ceilings
Small, unexplained holes in your walls or ceilings, especially around pipes, electrical outlets, or behind furniture, can indicate that a pest is living within or behind your walls. Rodents will often create small holes to enter your home, while termites may leave holes as they burrow through wood.
- What to check for: Small, round holes, often with frayed edges, or cracks and gaps in walls, floors, or ceilings.
What Should You Do If You Suspect a Pest Problem?
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage. Some steps you can take include:
- Inspect your home thoroughly: Look for signs of pests in common hiding places like attics, basements, and behind appliances.
- Seal entry points: Check for cracks or holes in walls, windows, and doors where pests may be entering and seal them off.
- Clean up food sources: Ensure all food is stored securely and dispose of garbage regularly.
Call in a professional pest control service: If you find evidence of a significant infestation, it’s best to consult with a licensed pest control professional who can assess the situation and take the necessary steps to eradicate the problem.
Rely on Adaptive Pest Control
Pest problems can escalate quickly, so regular inspections, proper maintenance, and prompt action are key to keeping your home pest-free. At Adaptive Pest Control, we have over 20 years of experience keeping homes and families safe from pests. If you think you have a hidden pest problem, get in touch today.
