Critters in my Pipe!
Critters in my Pipe!, Most people don’t expect to find unusual critters in their plumbing pipes, but it can happen. From tiny slugs to much larger creatures, your pipes may be home to surprising visitors. Here are three crazy critters you might find lurking in the depths of your plumbing system.
First up is the American Toadfish (Opsanus tau). This North American species has been known to get inside pipes and survive for long periods. It has a flat head and sharp spines along its back, allowing it to squeeze through tight spaces. The American Toadfish is an opportunistic feeder, so if you have a leaky pipe, you may soon have a resident toadfish feasting on all sorts of tasty treats.
Next is the North American Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta). This species can get inside pipes through openings as small as two inches wide! It prefers to live in wetlands and streams but may find its way into your plumbing system if it’s looking for food or shelter. The North American Wood Turtle has an elongated carapace or shell that can reach up to eight inches long – much larger than the tiny slugs you usually find in your sink!
Finally, we have the Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis). This species tends to hang around houses and other artificial structures because it likes to prey on rodents like mice and rats. If a rat snake finds its way into a drain pipe, it can get stuck or drown if the water level rises. So if you have a noisy rat in your plumbing system, check for signs of snake activity before repairing!
Keeping critters out of your plumbing system and pipes can be a challenge, but there are steps you can take to prevent them from getting in. So, with proper maintenance and preventive measures, you can ensure your pipes remain free of unwanted visitors.
One of the best ways to keep critters out of your plumbing system is to ensure that all outdoor pipes and drains are properly sealed. This means sealing cracks or openings with either metal flashing or expanding foam sealant. Additionally, you should check for entry points near the roofline or foundation, as these can be vulnerable areas for animals to sneak in.
It’s also important to regularly inspect your pipes and drains for any signs of damage. If you notice a crack or hole, repair it immediately using the appropriate materials. It would help to use high-quality screens on all drain openings to prevent small animals from entering.
Finally, if you have a septic tank, make sure it is checked and maintained at least once a year. Septic tanks that become clogged are more likely to attract pests like rats and snakes looking for food and shelter. By ensuring that all components of your plumbing system are working correctly, you can help keep critters out more effectively.
These are just three crazy critters that may find their way into your plumbing pipes. While they can cause problems like clogs and leaks, most are harmless and will eventually move on. However, if you suspect an animal is living in your pipes, contact a professional plumber right away so they can take care of the problem safely and quickly.
That way, you can be sure that your plumbing is critter-free!
