As the weather turns cold, Portland property owners are at risk from one type of familiar local pest: rodents.
In an effort to hide from the cold, rodents seek out shelter in people's homes and businesses, which causes plenty of problems for everyone. For Portland property owners, the most common rodents encountered are:
- Mice: Only growing to about four inches long, they are much smaller than rats and possess a rounded, grey-colored body. They also have large round ears and long, thin tails.
- Rats: Much larger than mice, this rodent grows up to 16 inches long and boasts larger jaws and smaller ears than mice. Rats are usually brown or black with a thick and scaly tail.
- Squirrels: They possess slender bodies with bushy tails and usually remain outside. However, they seek to enter homes starting in the fall to get and stay warm. They are considered dangerous to remove on your own.
Why Rodents Come Inside
Regardless of what species of rodent is involved, they're all attracted to the same things, so it's helpful to know the attraction factors that make your home a target for infestation. These factors include:
- Warmth: Unless the heat goes out, your home is warmer than outside starting in late fall. For this reason, rodents will seek your home out to remain protected from the cold.
- Food: Rodents need accessible food. Crumbs, leftovers, trash, and other sources of food will act as a beacon to rodents especially when natural sources become scarce.
- Water: All mammals need accessible water to live. If you have standing water or a leak, this will make your home a target for invasion for rodents and other pests.
- Clutter: Rodents are sneaky and like to hide. If you have clutter throughout the house, it's basically a paradise for rodents. The clutter also provides nesting materials, which is the last thing you want.
It's much easier to prevent a rodent infestation than it is to control one. To stay ahead of future problems, take note of the following prevention tips:
- Clean up crumbs and food: Rodents will eat the same food you eat. Put unused food away, wipe down counters, and sweep floors to remove any crumbs that may attract unwanted pests.
- Properly dispose of trash: Just because you throw food away, that doesn't mean you're safe. Unless properly sealed, rodents can get in your trash easily. Practice proper trash management and disposal to stay ahead.
- Repair water leaks: Leaky faucets, large holes, and other signs of disrepair represent easy access and accessible water. Maintain the property and you'll limit how attractive your home is to rodents.
- Seal potential entry points: Sometimes rodents get inside simply because they can. It's up to you to ensure it's difficult to get inside. Plug holes, cracks, crevices, and other points of entry to stay safe. Keep in mind that mice can fit through holes as small as a dime.
Rodent Control With Big Blue Bug Solutions
While there's plenty you can do on your own to prevent a rodent infestation, nothing beats professional pest control. At Big Blue Bug Solutions, we have honed our process for more than 80 years to deliver unmatched service and results.
Are you in need of complete and effective rodent control? Then call our team at Big Blue Bug Solutions or use our online contact form to schedule your free inspection and start getting what you need to keep your Portland property rodent-free, regardless of the season.