5 Causes of Rodent Infestations There are several
causes of rodent infestations. Knowing why rats and mice get in the house can
help you prevent this problem occurring.
At Critters
Pest Control we regularly deal with pest issues that have happened because
of a range of reasons. In this blog, we cover the five main causes of rodent
infestations.
Unclean Environments Food waste and sanitation issues provide an ideal reason for
rodents to get into your house. No matter how clean your kitchen surfaces are,
if there is food left on the countertops, in the sink or on the floor, rats can
smell it and have easy access.
Leftovers on surfaces from human food are not the only cause
of rodent infestation, however. Cat and dog food leftovers, for example, can
attract these animals.
In addition to food, general waste is also appealing to
pests. Rubbish left in the kitchen or outside bins, especially if its not
effectively sealed, may cause issues. Even if your outside bins are well
sealed, problems in your neighbour’s bins might encourage rodents to come to
your home too.
Shelter From Predators and Harsh Weather Your home provides a comfortable and safe environment for
pests to shelter from predators and harsh weather. Protected from rain, snow,
cold wind and blistering heat, these pests can nest and breed in a secure
environment.
Behind the walls of your house, rats and mice are not under
threat from their
predators . These tend to be large birds of prey such as:
Owls are very effective hunters of rats as they prey on them
during the night which is also when rats tend to look for food.
Plumbing and Structural Issues Rodents are resilient and very good at gaining access to
properties in a range of ways. Rats and mice can fit through small gaps in
plumbing and structural elements of your property. Mice can enter through a gap
of 6-7 mm and rats can squeeze through 20 mm.
Holes and cracks in walls, floorboards, windows and ceilings
can provide access for pests. If you have overarching trees near your property,
rats can jump from the branches and enter the loft. They can also climb
vertical pipes or gnaw through wood to gain entry.
Access to Food and Water To survive out in the open, pests are constantly looking for
food and water. Your home provides a helpful solution as it can be easier to
access this sustenance.
Water can be found in baths, showers and any taps. A pet
water bowl, inside or outside, is also an attraction so removing this when it
is not needed is recommended.
As previously mentioned, food left out in the kitchen can
cause rodent infestations. Leftovers and other produce should be stored in
sealed containers and put in cupboards to protect them and reduce the chance of
rats or mice finding them.
Safe Places to Breed and Hide There are many places for pests to hide in and around your
property. Once they are hidden and have found easy sources of food and water,
they may nest and breed. Some areas they might nest include:
Inside the Walls Inside the Attic or Loft Beneath Furniture Leaf Piles and Overgrowth Firewood Piles
Preventing easy access to food and water reduces the
likelihood that rats or mice will nest in your property. If you notice the
warning signs of an infestation, however, such as seeing droppings or gnawing
marks, you should contact a professional pest control service.
Call Critters Pest Control today on 01954 202477
or 07811 322553 for effective
rodent removal and more.