Winter Rodent Prevention

As temperatures drop in winter, rodents such as mice, rats, and even squirrels like to make themselves cozy in the warmth of your home. These pests bring damage and disease with them and should not be taken lightly. Once securely nestled into your attic, basement, or other areas of your home, they decide to raise a family there too. Before  rodent control  becomes a necessity, there are steps you can take to make it harder for rodents to enter and live happily in your home.

Look for These Signs

• Droppings and urine trails can most often be found in food and storage areas or along floors near walls where they travel.
• Dark smears that look like rub marks. These are made by the oil found in rodents’ hair as they move across surfaces.
• Gnaw marks that look like tiny teeth marks on food containers or walls. Holes chewed through paper packaging.
• Noises in your walls or ceilings are a sure sign of rodent activity. Often, pets become agitated because they hear movement.
• Finding nesting material such as shredded paper, fabric, or dried plant matter.

Best Rodent Prevention Practices

Because rodents are known for spreading illness and gnawing through drywall and electrical wiring, it’s imperative to eliminate and lessen your risk through the following prevention measures:

• Seal gaps and holes inside and outside your home as rodents can enter through the tiniest of holes.
• Keep your yard clear of leaf piles and deep mulch where rodents like to hide.
• Keep food and water sources sealed tight by keeping food in closed bins, having a tight lid for your garbage, and keeping your counters clear of crumbs.
• Eliminate clutter in attics and basements.
• Trim trees and bushes away from the roof.
• Rodents do not like peppermint. Mix peppermint oil with water, and spray your pantry and other susceptible areas.

When Rodent Control is Necessary

Sometimes even the most vigilant homeowner cannot stop rodents determined to make your home theirs as well. Call  Ecola  as soon as you suspect you have an infestation at (800) 332-BUGS (2847) to request the  Rodent Exclusion process .