With Rodent Awareness Week underway, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the signs of rodent infestations as well as learn how you can prevent them. Ever notice that rat and mouse infestations are more common in the fall? As temperatures drop in autumn, rodents are driven indoors to seek warmth, food, and shelter. They also are infamous for being able to squeeze through an opening as small as the size of a dime, which is why it’s so important to implement rodent exclusion efforts throughout your property. Read on to learn some of Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest’s top tips for keeping rats and mice outside this fall and all year long!
How to Rodent-Proof Your Home
The last thing any homeowner wants to deal with is a pest infestation, especially when it involves rodents! Not only are rats and mice carriers of filth, their feces also spread disease and contaminate food. For that reason alone, it’s important to know how to prevent rodents:
- Inspect your property for cracks or holes. Seal all crevices or gaps in your foundation, doors, and windows.
- Place screens over chimneys and vents. Properly cover your vent systems and chimney to avoid rodents getting through.
- Securely store your food. Always keep food stored in secured containers and clean up spills after meals. Crumbs and open containers will attract pests.
- Keep a clean, mess-free home. Rodents are a big fan of clutter, and are attracted to messy basements and attics. Always clean up messes and avoid excess debris.
- Make sure your landscape is trimmed. Rodents are great climbers and may make use of tree limbs to access your home. Make sure vegetation is kept away from the foundation of your property.
Signs of Rats and Mice
In addition to protecting your home from rodents, it’s important to know the signs of rats and mice to catch an infestation in the early stages. If you think you have rats or mice inside your property, it’s best to call a professional. The most common indicators of a rodent problem include:
- Droppings
- Gnaw marks
- Nests
- Burrows and tunnels
- Runways or tracks
- Foul odor (from urine or feces)
Getting Rid of Rodents
If your exclusion efforts have failed to keep rats and mice out, it’s time to call a professional for help. A pest control expert can help determine how rodents made their way inside in the first place as well as prevent future issues. The Western Exterminator, formerly Pratt Pest team has been dealing with rodent problems for years and can be trusted to control any rat or mouse infestation you’re dealing with.