For some people, rodents are welcomed into the home as a cute, first pet? Or perhaps, even food for a pet. Hamsters, gerbils, mice, and rats. Depending on which family member you ask, they can be considered adorable or deplorable. Regardless of your relationship to a pet, any wild rodent in your home is cause for concern. Aside from their startling presence, a wild rodent can carry diseases and cause a considerable amount of damage. Rodent infestations have been known to result in chewed electric cables, important paperwork shredded, contaminated food, and more. Leading to more serious issues like house fires from damaged cables and Hantavirus from inhaling dust containing dried urine.
Known for their quick and plentiful breeding habits, rodents can be difficult to control once they have infested your home. Once they enter your home, establish hidden nesting locations, and secure food and water sources, they can be nearly impossible to eradicate.
Signs of Rodents in Your Home
Rodents in your home can go undetected if you are not paying close enough attention. Signs that a rodent is present in your home can include dark droppings (feces) that resemble grains of rice. These droppings can be found along the walls and where ever food is present. Other clear indications of rodents in your home can be any visible damage. For example, any chewed holes in boxes and bags of dry goods in a pantry can indicate a rat. Check bags that may store pet food or grass seeds in the garage.
If you suspect you have a rodent infestation in your home, we are happy to help. We know that an infestation can be difficult to eradicate. Many of the DIY options for eliminating rodents can often pose danger to your pets and children. It is our goal at DriveBye Exterminators to handle the pest infestation quickly, safely, and effectively.
1. Block All Entry Points
Often times when pests find their way into our homes it is to find shelter, food, and water. Rodents can enter through the smallest cracks in your foundation, windows, door frames, and framework. Be sure to regularly check your attic and seal any cracks, holes, or entryways to your home.
2. Keep Bird Feeders Away From Your Home
The birdseed and nuts that bird feeders are filled with are a tasty treat for rodents. You might have noticed a squirrel occasionally trying to grab a snack from your feeder every once in a while. If you have any feeders, keep them away from the house to avoid rodents finding shelter in your home.
3. Store Pet Food in Sealed Containers
This is a good rule of thumb for pet owners to avoid most pest infestations. Rodents, of all shapes and sizes, love your pet’s dry food. Store the food in sealed containers and off of the floor.
4. Get a Pet!
This might seem like an extreme length to go for the prevention of a pest, but this was actually one of the reasons that our ancestor’s domesticated animals to begin with. Cats, dogs, and even barn owls not only scared rodents away, but they have been known to take matters into their own hands.
5. Clean Floors and Countertops Regularly
Any spills and crumbs left around your home are an open invitation to rodents. This is especially important in the kitchen. Be sure to clean any spills immediately after they happen. Wipe countertops and sweep and mop the floors to avoid providing a food source.
6. Seal Trash Cans and Compost Containers
Another great rule of thumb for preventing most pest infestations. Smelly garbage outside your home can act as an attractive signal to rodents nearby. Seal containers and secure them from being open. Store them away from the house and if possible, elevated a bit off the ground.
7. Control Foundation Plantings
Dense shrubs, bushes, and gardens can provide a wonderful hiding place for rodents as they look for entryways into your home. Keep your plants a few inches away from your home and keep the soil levels low. Avoid providing an area for them to burrow into the side of your home.
8. Call in the Experts
At DriveBye Exterminators, we know a rodent infestation can get out of hand quickly. Rodent infestations can lead to serious damage and pose dangerous health risks to you, your family, and your pets. We can help you quickly identify the issue and provide an effective solution. At DriveBye Exterminators, we pride ourselves on safe, efficient, and effective pest control. Give us a call or contact us today!
