There’s Something Dead In My Wall or Ceiling

-Four Seasons Pest Solutions, 07/22/2024

Firstly, you may need some rodent control, nuisance wildlife control, or possibly a pest exclusion so you don’t have to encounter this problem again. However, in the meantime, you’re probably wanting to know how long it’s going to take to decompose and what can be done about the smell and the carcass. That’s going to depend on whether it’s more like the size of a mouse or more like the size of a raccoon. Birds, rats, mice, raccoons, bats, squirrels, and occasionally a few other animals have been known to make their way into a home but never back out.

How Long Will It Smell?

The quick answer is that there’s no exact time frame. During the summer,  a mouse could decompose in as little as 2 weeks vs as many as 10 weeks during the winter, whereas a raccoon may take from several weeks to several months. Depending on several environmental factors, the decomposition time will be within these parameters. However, the smells could linger on for longer periods, especially when the decomposition is slowed by cold weather. Most people report the odor lasting around 2 weeks with light traces of the odor lingering off and on for another week or so .

Removing the Carcass

Carcasses in attics, walls, and crawlspaces often prove difficult to find and, therefore, make removal efforts tedious. It could include lengthy searches through insulation, cutting drywall, and use of mirrors and flashlights to peer into foundation block voids. All of these are time-consuming, not always productive, and could become quite costly.

What if the Carcass is in My Air and Heat ducts?

In most cases, this will not happen. Instead, the heat or air conditioning is likely transferring the smell from its source outside the ductwork to the air inside the ductwork and throughout your home. If the animal is indeed inside the ductwork, the smell should become almost unbearable. In such a case it may be necessary to insert an inspection camera into the ductwork in search of the carcass.

What Health Problems Could The Carcass Cause?

Depending on the time of year, flies and other insects may access and lay eggs on the carcass. This can cause a potential outbreak of several pest problems that may end up inside the living quarters.  Additionally, a range of disease-carrying vermin that pose significant risks to humans are possible. Viruses, bacteria, tapeworms, and more are a potential threat to your health and safety.

Handling a carcass also poses great risks and should ONLY be performed by a trained professional.

Professional Solutions

If you have a dead carcass from a pest animal inside your home, you probable need professional pest services. Whether it’s odor control, rodent control, nuisance wildlife control solutions, or a pest exclusion, our expert team are ready to step in and help make your life a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. Give us a call for all your pest control needs.