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.
