[stormy72921]

OK everyone, I've got one for you... I have a munching sound coming from underneath my home. It literally sounds like something of decent size is eating a bag of chips right under the sub flooring. I hear scratching at times, but mostly this weird munching sound. I know it isn't termites due to the size the animal is when I hear it move from one place to another. I'm pretty sure it isn't a dog or cat. Maybe a big rat?? But, what is he munching on, my wires, insulation, wood?? The sound only happens at night. Never in the day. PLEASE HELP! I am seriously concerned about this.
Thank you.

[Clough]

Have had to deal with this problem in two homes where I have lived.

I have thought about the possibilities, one of them being a raccoon or raccoons. But, they like to seek out places that are high. And, they don't bring food back to the den. This does not rule them out entirely though. They will also claw and gnaw on wooden things which may account for the sounds that you hear. Have had lots of experience with them. Had six at one time living in my attic! They finally left when I had a new roof put on.

Sounds like the animal is nocturnal as far as being active. Probably will go out at some point during the night.

I would first look around your foundation to see if there is anywhere an animal could get in; wait until you don't hear any sounds during the night, and then during the night cover up any holes that you find. It is possible for you to see when it or they leave if you can hear it or them moving about.

Don't know where you live or if you are next to a wooded area.

Probably isn't a domesticated animal. Is best to leave investigating and removal of wild animals up to the professionals. If you knew the size of the animal, then you could probably trap it in a live trap. But then, many communities have laws as to what you can do with the animals after you trap them.

Maybe where you live has some sort of Animal Control unit that you could call. Most communities have one listed in the city or county government section of the phone book. If you do, it would not cost you anything just to ask about the situation.