People in Centennial do their best to stay warm and cozy indoors as temperatures drop and snow starts piling up. Sadly, rodents might be doing the same thing. Mice and rats do not like the cold any more than we do, so they start searching for warm, safe places to hide. Your home might be their number one target.
Rodents might seem small and harmless but a rodent infestation in the winter can bring some serious problems. That is why hiring regular pest control at saelapest.com is important for residents. Below, you will learn about why Centennial homeowners should take winter rodent issues seriously and what makes these little invaders such a threat:
Why Rodents Love to Be Inside in Winter
Mice and rats usually stick to outdoor spaces where they have plenty of food and shelter. But their natural resources start to disappear as the cold sets in. Water freezes, food becomes harder to find, and their outdoor homes are no longer comfortable in winter.
That is why they make their way toward human homes. Your warm house offers them heat, food, water, and plenty of hidden places to build nests. Attics, basements, crawl spaces, and garages are prime real estate for rodents in the winter.
How They Get In
Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime while rats only need a gap the size of a quarter. Thus, tiny cracks in your foundation, gaps around doors or windows, and open vents can be entry points. It does not take long for them to make themselves at home once they are in. They can quickly build nests, start breeding, and explore your house for food sources.
Health Risks from Rodents
Rodents may look cute in cartoons, but they can carry serious diseases such as:
- Hantavirus. This virus can be found in rodent droppings, urine, and nesting materials. It is dangerous and potentially deadly to humans if inhaled.
- Salmonella. Rodents can contaminate your food or kitchen surfaces with salmonella, which can cause serious stomach problems.
- Allergies and asthma. Rodent droppings and dander can trigger allergic reactions or worsen asthma, especially in kids.
Rodents also bring with them fleas, ticks, and mites that can spread even more diseases. This can turn a minor rodent problem into a major one.
Damage to Your Home
Rodents chew constantly, which is a huge problem when they are inside your house. Their teeth never stop growing, so they are always gnawing on things to keep them filed down. This can lead to chewed wires, damaged insulation, and destroyed furniture or boxes. Over time, the damage from a rodent infestation can add up quickly and cost a lot to repair.
They Multiply Fast
One or two mice might not seem like a big deal but rodents breed fast. A single pair of mice can turn into dozens within just a few weeks. Rats reproduce even faster, with litters of up to 14 babies at a time. They are safely inside your home and have easy access to food and warmth in winter, so there is nothing to slow them down. This makes it essential to take early signs seriously. These signs include droppings, scratching or squeaking sounds, gnaw marks, nests, and a musty or ammonia-like smell.
Preventing Rodents in Centennial Winters
You can reduce your chances of a winter rodent problem with the following steps:
- Seal up entry points. Use steel wool or caulk to block even small holes around your home.
- Keep food sealed. Store pantry items in airtight containers.
- Clean up regularly. Don’t leave pet food out and take out the trash often.
- Reduce clutter. Rodents love places to hide, so keep basements and garages tidy.
- Fix leaks. Standing water can attract thirsty rodents, so fix leaks as they happen.
Many Centennial homeowners also choose to work with pest control professionals during the winter to stay ahead of any infestations. A well-timed inspection or treatment can help keep rodents out before they ever get in.