Are There Animals in Your Sewers?

Sewer systems do a great job of keeping our homes waste-free, but they also serve another purpose — acting as a haven for various animals.

You might be surprised to learn that animals in sewers can be quite common. From rodents like mice and rats to reptiles and amphibians, the sewer system is home to a variety of creatures. Keep reading to learn more about what animals typically live in sewers, how they get there, and what you can do to keep them out of your home.

Common Animals Found in Sewers and Pipelines

While sewers aren’t exactly a wildlife sanctuary, they can provide shelter and food for some animals. These sewer animals may move through the system, looking for a warm and safe place to hide from the elements. Sometimes, even cuddly friends like cats and dogs can find their way inside a sewer.

Cute Kitten Rescued from Drain Pipe | Roto-Rooter

What Animals Live in Sewers?

There is a surprising variety of creatures that can live in your local sewers. Here are some of the most common:

• Mice and rats: These small rodents are the most common sewer dwellers. They’re attracted to warm, dark, and moist conditions.
• Snakes: Some snake species are known to navigate pipes and even appear in toilets, searching for food or warmth.

• Small mammals: Creatures like squirrels, opossums, and raccoons often seek refuge in shelters when times are tough.

• Frogs and lizards: These animals like the warm wetness of a sewer — and the fact that they can find tons of insects to eat inside them.

• Alligators: If you live in the South, there’s a real possibility that alligators could use these underground tunnels as a home.

Mice and Rats in Sewer Systems

Mice and rats are among the most frequent invaders of sewer systems. If you’ve ever wondered, "Can mice come through drains?" the answer is yes. They can easily travel through plumbing systems, including those in your kitchen or bathroom.

Snakes in Drains and Toilets

While it may sound like something out of a horror movie, snakes can find their way into drains and even toilets. This is especially true in areas where snakes are more common, like near natural bodies of water.

Other Unwanted Guests (Frogs, Insects, Small Mammals)

Frogs and insects often find sewers appealing, especially in wet climates. Additionally, small mammals like raccoons or opossums may wander into sewer lines looking for food or shelter. These creatures can cause clogs or lead to unpleasant odors in your plumbing system, especially if an animal gets stuck in the drain pipe and dies.

How Animals Get Into Your Drain Pipes

So, how do these animals manage to get into your plumbing? The answer lies in your home’s drainage system and access points.

Entry Points in Plumbing and Drainage Systems

Some of the places where animals can get into your system include:

• Sewer lines: Animals often enter through sewer pipes that connect to your home. Cracked pipes or broken seals allow them to travel into your system.
• Vents: Some animals enter through vents, especially if the vent pipes are damaged or improperly sealed.
• Drainage gaps: Gaps around drains, especially those in bathrooms or kitchens, are easy entry points for small animals.

Can Mice Come in Through a Sump Pump?

Yes, mice can make their way into your home via the sump pump, especially if the pump isn’t sealed or the discharge line is cracked. 

Signs of an Animal Stuck in Your Drain Pipe

If you suspect that an animal is stuck in your drain pipe, look for these signs:

• Unpleasant odors: A foul smell may mean the worst has happened — an animal has gotten trapped and died in your drain pipe.
• Noises: Scratching or rustling sounds from pipes could be a sign of an animal inside.
• Slow draining: Blockages caused by a trapped animal or debris could lead to slower drainage.

Your best bet if you notice these signs is to call a plumber right away to help the animal get loose. If you try to wait it out, the animal could scratch and damage your system, leading to the need to replace your pipes. 

How to Prevent Animals from Entering Your Pipes

Now that you know how animals can enter your plumbing, here’s how to prevent it:

• Seal gaps and cracks: Ensure pipes and vents are properly sealed to prevent animals from entering.
• Install screens: Use screens or grates over vents and sump pump openings to keep out unwanted guests.

• Put food in airtight containers: Animals are often lured into a house by the smell of food, so keeping everything stored away might eliminate temptation.

• Regular maintenance: Have a plumber inspect your plumbing system to make sure there are no openings for animals to exploit.

What Should You Do If You Find an Animal in Your Plumbing?

If you find an animal in your plumbing, don’t try to remove it yourself. Many animals carry rabies and other diseases, and they may try to scratch or bite you if you get close to them.

It’s best to call a professional plumber who can safely remove the creature and repair any damage it may have caused.

Keep Your Plumbing Safe and Animal-Free

You might think animals in the drain are a myth, but these issues are all too real for homeowners. It's important to consider what small animals are in your area and how to guard your pipelines against them.

If you suspect an animal is causing problems in your pipes, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber. Ensure your plumbing stays clean and secure — reach out to Roto-Rooter for a thorough inspection today!