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Rodent Prevention Tips for Fall and Winter

As temperatures drop, rodents like rats and mice seek warmth and food, often making their way into homes and buildings. Here’s how property owners can prevent infestations by identifying and sealing entry points, understanding the health risks rodents pose, and spotting signs of an infestation.

Seal Entry Points

Rodents are masters at squeezing through even the smallest gaps, so it’s essential to inspect and secure common entry points:

  • Cracks in the Foundation: Check for cracks in your home’s foundation, as even a small gap can be an entryway. Use silicone caulk or cement to fill these cracks and prevent entry.

  • Gaps in Doors and Windows: Make sure doors and windows close tightly. Install weather stripping around doors and caulk around window frames to seal gaps.

  • Utility Openings: Rodents can squeeze through gaps around pipes, vents, and cables entering your home. Use steel wool or caulk to block these openings.

  • Roof and Attic Access Points: Check your roof for gaps where rodents can enter, like around chimneys or loose shingles. Seal these areas and ensure attic vents are properly screened.

  • Garage Doors: Rodents often enter through garages, so ensure the bottom seal on garage doors is in good condition, with no gaps.

Health Risks Rodents Bring

Rodents are not only a nuisance but also pose serious health risks:

  • Disease Transmission: Rats and mice can carry diseases such as hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis, which can spread to humans through urine, droppings, or direct contact.

  • Allergens and Asthma: Rodent droppings and dander can exacerbate asthma and trigger allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.

  • Food Contamination: Rodents contaminate food sources with their droppings, hair, and urine, making food unsafe for consumption.

  • Parasites: Rodents often carry fleas, ticks, and mites, which can infest your home and spread additional diseases.

Spotting Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Early detection is key to preventing a full-blown infestation. Here are the most common signs:

  • Droppings: Rodent droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped. They are often found near food sources, in cupboards, or along baseboards.

  • Gnaw Marks: Rodents constantly chew to keep their teeth sharp. Look for gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture, and wiring.

  • Scratching Noises: At night, you may hear scratching or scurrying sounds, especially in walls, attics, or under floors.

  • Grease Marks: Rodents leave greasy marks as they travel along walls and baseboards due to the oils in their fur.

  • Nests: Rodents build nests using shredded paper, insulation, and fabric. These are usually hidden in attics, basements, or behind appliances.

  • Strange Pet Behavior: If you have pets, they may become agitated or curious around areas where rodents are active, such as under furniture or near walls.

Rodent Prevention is Key

By sealing entry points and staying vigilant for signs of infestation, homeowners can avoid the dangers rodents bring. For serious or recurring issues, professional pest control services are recommended to keep your property safe and rodent-free throughout the fall and winter months.

Need help rodent-proofing your home? Contact Mosquito Elite Pest Control today for a thorough inspection and customized rodent prevention plan.

📞 757-689-0640 💻 (http://www.mosquitoelitepestcontrol.com/)

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