This Is Not A Joke!

Some kind of screeching critter is in my basement, more properly termed a cellar. At first, I thought the noise was outside. But it isn't!

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The screeching sound, thankfully intermittent but ongoing since mid-morning today, is similar to that of a hawk's cry. Eerie sound, I tell ya.

This critter has moved under the old dryer, which is disconnected.

What in the world is in my cellar? Should I call animal control?