Keeping Rodents Out: A Guide to Fall Rodent Prevention
As fall brings cooler temperatures to Raleigh, the behaviors of local pest species are affected. While some begin to go dormant in preparation for winter, others become likelier than ever to infest your home - and that includes rodents. Mice and rats seek warmth and a steady food supply during fall, and these needs often lead them into local homes.
If rodents invade your home during fall, they can multiply and cause widespread damage throughout winter. To prevent this from happening in your home, follow these helpful fall rodent prevention tips for the Raleigh area.
5 Key Tips for Fall Rodent Prevention in Raleigh
Seal Entry Points
Any opening that can give a mouse or rat access to your home is known as an "entry point." To prevent rodent infestations during fall, it's necessary to close off any such entry points in your house's siding, foundation, and roof. Don't just seal big holes; rats can squeeze through a hole the size of a quarter and mice can squeeze through gaps the size of a dime. Use steel wool and caulk or metal flashing to seal openings because rodents can chew through softer materials like rubber or plastic.
Fall Yard Cleanup
Completing an extensive fall yard cleanup isn't just good for lawn maintenance; it's also a crucial step in rodent exclusion for Raleigh homes. If rodents are drawn to shelter in your yard, they are more likely to enter your home. Be sure to complete the following in early fall:
Remove leaf piles, tall grass, or clutter near the foundation of your home. These are hiding spots often used by rodents.
Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home exterior so that rodents cannot nest in it.
Trim tree branches and shrubs away from your house since mice and rats can use them as bridges to access your roof.
Keep Food Secured
While fall rodent infestations in Raleigh are largely motivated by the need for shelter, food is another major attractant for mice and rats. Secure food sources both inside your home and in your garage to keep rodents from getting into them. Store all dry goods in your kitchen pantry inside airtight containers to keep rodents out of them. Clean your kitchen floor, counters, and sink on a regular basis so there aren't morsels lying around for rodents to eat. If you store pet food or bird seed in your garage, keep it in tightly lidded boxes since rodents can easily chew through plastic bags.
Use Rodent Traps
The most efficient way to eliminate rodents from your home during fall is by setting up traps for them. Rodent traps near suspected entry points or along walls can help catch early invaders. Just make sure to use traps of the right size; mouse traps are too small for rats, while rat traps may be too large for mice. Bait your rodent traps with something soft and pungent, such as peanut butter, chocolate or soft cheese. For an added layer of rodent protection, consider hiring a professional rodent control company in Raleigh to install and monitor bait stations around the perimeter of your home.
Regular Rodent Inspections
Rodents are sneaky but if you look closely, you'll see signs of their presence within your home. During fall, conduct regular rodent inspections both inside and outside your home. Look for potential entry points and signs of rodent activity such as gnaw marks and droppings. Be particularly thorough in searching remote areas such as your attic, basement, and garage, where mice and rats may build their nests.
Keep Your Raleigh Home Rodent-Free This Fall
If you want to prevent rodent activity in your home this fall, work with a licensed and insured rodent control company. Contact Sustainable Pest Systems today if you're looking for professional rodent control solutions in the greater Raleigh area!