noises between the outer wall and the drywall/inside
wall--scratching/running/noise like "purring" indicate that there is
an animal in the wall.  The building has a dirt floor basement:  no
obvious entry point.  How do we entice the animal out?  We realize we
have to find the entry point, but we want the creature OUT before the
opening is eliminated.

Hi stringbean,

Thank you for your question.

http://www.aaanimalcontrol.com/squirrelwall.htm

Site has pictures and and explanation on how to remove a squirrel from a wall.


More on this page:
http://www.aaanimalcontrol.com/squirrels.htm

=========

After you have removed the squirrel(s) you'll want to follow the
directions on this page:

DoItYourself.com Community Forums - what about squirrels..and mice
http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=165194

=========

Best regards,
tlspiegel

Response with details and "fix it" options exceeded expectations. 
[The happy news is that "our squirrel" was seen LEAVING by an opening
in the soffit and the repair to that area was done.]  However, I had
had a previous experience and your answer(cut out the wall) would have
been helpful.  Also information about the habits of squirrels prepare
me for other incidents.  Thank you.

Hi stringbean,

Great News!  Thank for the 5 star rating, comments and generous tip!  :)

Best regards,
tlspiegel