5 Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Rodent Control

As another winter arrives, many folks in Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut have found themselves dealing with bitter temperatures, slippery commutes, and high heat bills! But there’s another nuisance that homeowners may be experiencing this winter: rodents! During the colder months, some rodents, such as house mice, will move indoors in search of warm shelter. Most of us are familiar with some rodent control treatments, but there are a few things that may not be obvious to everyone. Let’s review some simple and effective rodent control treatments.

As you embark on a rodent prevention or treatment plan this winter, here are five things to keep in mind.

Snap Traps are King for Home Rodent Control

Despite the multitude of various techniques, tools and apparatuses used to eliminate rodent infestations, the good old-fashioned snap trap reigns supreme when it comes to effectiveness.  While they can be difficult to set (watch your fingers!) they are inexpensive, often reusable, and good for a quick reduction of an infesting population. We, therefore, recommend that you spend a few penny’s more for the expanded trigger version (like the Victor East Set Mouse Trap) as they are more effective.

When it Comes to Bait, It’s All About the Quality

Mice are pickier than you’d think! You may want to reconsider leaving old cheese or stale peanut butter on your traps for weeks at a time. Rodents will easily turn up their nose at these foods if higher quality foods are accessible in your pantry or cabinets. If you plan on using human food for rodent bait, try a variety of high-calorie sweets or fatty foods. Likewise, keep your peanut butter fresh or use the food product they chewed into in your pantry!

Rats and Mice require different Rodent Treatment Strategies

Because mice and rats have a close genetic link and are similar in appearance, many people tend to lump them together when it comes to preventing or controlling an infestation. However, mice and rats have different habitats, behavioral patterns, and eating habits, and thus require different treatment methods. If you have a rat infestation, you’ll need bigger traps for sure! If you aren’t sure which type of rodent is infesting your property, give your local pest control professional a call.

One Rodent Doesn’t Always Mean You Have a Full-Blown Infestation

Sometimes a single rodent will make their way into a house or structure, and the home will not be otherwise infested. However, seeing other signs of rodent activity especially in different areas, is a good indication that an infestation may be occurring. Consequently, these signs can include:

• Rodent droppings
• Tracks, footprints or tail trails along dusty areas of the house
• Moving, scratching or squeaking noises in the walls
• Musky, stale odors caused by rodent urine and feces

Calling a Professional May Be Your Best Bet

Many rodents can recognize patterns and figure out ways to evade traps. Hence, this can make controlling them extremely difficult. Pest control professionals, however, have the knowledge and resources necessary to treat these types of infestations. If you suspect an infestation or have noticed signs of rodent activity around your home, consider contacting your local pest control pros.

The friendly and knowledgeable service team at Graduate Pest Solutions is here to help you.