Signs You’ve Got a Pest Problem (and Didn’t Even Know It)

April 11th, 2025

By Oliva Wilson

Staff writer for Wake Up World

You don’t have to see a rat skittering across the floor or a trail of ants marching across your counter to have a pest problem. In fact, some of the most common pest infestations start quietly. No dramatic warning signs. No red flags waving in your face.

And that’s exactly what makes them so frustrating.

By the time most people realize something’s off, the issue has usually been growing for weeks, sometimes months. If you know what to look for, you can catch the early signs before things get out of hand.

Unexplained Noises, Especially at Night

If you’re hearing odd sounds when the house is quiet, pay attention. You might notice:

• Scratching in the walls or ceilings
• Light scurrying noises across floorboards or in the attic
• A soft buzzing, clicking, or rustling sound coming from inside vents

These sounds usually mean rodents, birds, or insects have found a cozy place to settle in, so you’ll want to get in touch with experts like Candor Pest Control sooner rather than later. These sorts of pests are often most active at night, which is why these noises seem louder or more frequent once everything else quiets down.

Tiny Droppings or “Debris” in Hidden Areas

This is one of the easiest signs to miss, mainly because no one checks the back of cupboards or inside closets every day. But if you’re dealing with mice, roaches, or other small pests, they usually leave something behind.

Rodent droppings are typically dark, rice-sized pellets. Cockroaches leave behind what looks like coffee grounds or pepper. Don’t overlook this just because it’s small. A few specks can mean a much bigger issue.

Your Pets Are Acting Strange

Sometimes, animals know what we don’t. If your cat is staring at a specific wall for long periods, or your dog keeps sniffing around one particular spot under the fridge, they might be picking up on smells or sounds you can’t detect.

Of course, pets are curious by nature. But if their behavior is persistent and focused in one area, it might be worth a closer look.

Odd Smells That Don’t Go Away

There’s a difference between a musty smell from an old basement and a bad smell caused by pests. If there’s a lingering odor that smells sour, oily, or like something’s rotting, that’s worth investigating.

Rodents and cockroaches can leave behind strong, distinct smells. A decaying odor might even signal a dead animal trapped in a wall or attic space.

This is one of those signs people often blame on other things, such as plumbing, mold, or general household funk, but it’s smart to rule out pests early on.

Damage You Can’t Quite Explain

Here’s a common scenario: you notice a hole in the food packaging in your pantry. Or maybe your wires look chewed, or furniture has tiny gnaw marks on the legs. At first glance, it might not even register. But these are strong clues.

Rodents love to chew through cardboard, plastic, insulation, and even wiring. Termites can cause subtle damage to wood that looks like bubbling paint or slightly warped surfaces. Moths and silverfish can ruin clothing and books without making a big scene.

Keep an eye out for:

• Holes in food bags or containers
• Frayed wires or insulation
• Wood that seems soft, hollow, or flaky
• Shredded paper or fabric in odd places (this might be nesting material)

These are not just signs of inconvenience; they’re safety risks too, especially if electrical wires are involved.

Bugs You Can’t See, But They’re There

Just because you don’t see them, doesn’t mean they aren’t making themselves comfortable. Bed bugs, for example, are notoriously stealthy. You might only notice itchy bites or small blood spots on sheets. Fleas can live in carpets and upholstery long before you see one jump.

Dust mites and other microscopic pests don’t cause the same visible damage, but they can trigger allergies or breathing issues, especially in sensitive individuals.

If you’ve noticed more sneezing, itchy skin, or unexplained rashes lately, don’t assume it’s just the weather. It could be something much smaller.

Seasonal Clues You Might Overlook

Pests behave differently depending on the time of year. In colder months, rodents and insects look for warmth and shelter indoors. In spring and summer, the focus shifts to food and water sources.

If you notice more pests right after a rainy spell, or if bugs seem to appear near your windows and doors in warm weather, that’s no accident. They’re responding to environmental changes and often exploiting weak points in your home’s defense.

This includes things like:

• Gaps around windows
• Cracks in foundations
• Vents and chimney openings
• Dryer exhausts or utility lines

Keeping an eye on how pest activity changes with the seasons can give you a better sense of when and where to check more carefully.

When in Doubt, Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, it probably is. You don’t need to be an expert to notice when things in your home start behaving strangely. Whether it’s an unusual smell, a weird noise, or just a growing sense that something’s not quite right, it’s always worth investigating.

A pest issue that starts small can snowball quickly. Catching it early is the key to avoiding bigger damage, higher costs, and a much more frustrating experience down the line.

About the Author

Olivia Wilson is a passionate writer with a green thumb and a heart for healthy living. Through her articles, she aims to inspire others to cultivate vibrant gardens and nourish their bodies and souls through the power of nature. When she’s not tending to her garden or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, she can be found exploring local farmers’ markets or enjoying a peaceful hike in the great outdoors.