If you're finding big, fat, filthy rodents running along your exterior walls or, worse, scurrying away into hidden places when you open the door to your pantry or food storage, it can be quite disturbing. Not only is it startling to see a furry, fat critter in places you're not expecting, but these creatures are known to spread diseases, harmful bacteria, and parasites wherever they go. Those rodents don't even have to be big and fat to disturb you. It can be equally as unsettling to see a tiny mouse disappear into a hole behind a food shelf or to find droppings in the back of your silverware drawer. So, it is only logical to ask, "What is attracting these rodents?"
5 Things That Attract Rodents
- Trash. All rodents are opportunistic eaters. If they see a food source, they are going to investigate. That is why it is vital to make sure all trash cans are sealed and secure. This will keep the smells in, and those rodents out.
- Gardens. If you have vegetables on your property, rodents will be curious. All gardens should have a small fence to protect them. And, the fencing should go at least a foot below the soil to prevent these creatures from digging under.
- Clutter. When you have stuff in your yard, rodents will love you for it. Yard clutter offers many benefits to rodents. They can use it as cover to protect themselves from flying predators. They use them to build dens inside. And some rodents will tunnel under these items to create a burrow.
- Overgrowth. The higher your grass is and the more overgrown your yard looks, the safer rodents will feel when they come onto your property. Since the last thing you want to do is make rodents feel safe or welcome, it is a good idea to keep things neat.
- Water. Rodents don't just look for food. They also need a drink. If you have standing water on your property, these areas need to be protected or removed.
When rodents come into your yard, it is important to make sure they don't find what they're looking for, and the above tips can work to resist rodents. But, if you want to do more than just resist rodents, you'll need a little help. Effective rodent control requires surveillance, baiting, and trapping by someone educated in the habits and habitats of these animals.
For assistance in Massachusetts and Connecticut, contact American Pest Solutions. We have a track record for effective rodent control and over 100 years of experience fighting pests. When it comes to stopping rodents, you can trust American Pest Solutions.