Homeowners in New York State, beware!
When the temperatures start to drop, your home becomes an inviting haven for various rodent species seeking warmth and shelter. Understanding which rodents are most likely to invade can help you take proactive measures to keep them out.
Why Rodents Invade Homes in Cooler Weather
Rodents are resourceful creatures and will take advantage of any opportunity to find food, water, and shelter. Your cozy home provides the perfect environment for them to thrive, especially when outdoor conditions become less hospitable.
Common Rodent Invaders in New York State
1. House Mice (Mus musculus)
- Appearance: Small, usually gray or light brown with large ears and a pointed nose.
- Habits: House mice are excellent climbers and can squeeze through tiny openings. They prefer nesting in dark, secluded areas within homes.
- Risks: They contaminate food, chew through electrical wiring, and spread diseases such as salmonella.
2. Norway Rats (Rattus norvegicus)
- Appearance: Larger than house mice, typically brown or gray with a blunt nose.
- Habits: Norway rats dig burrows to live in and are often found in basements and crawl spaces. They are excellent swimmers.
- Risks: Known for causing significant structural damage and spreading serious diseases like leptospirosis and hantavirus.
3. Roof Rats (Rattus rattus)
- Appearance: Sleeker than Norway rats, with a longer tail and larger ears.
- Habits: Roof rats prefer to nest in high places like attics and rafters. They are adept climbers.
- Risks: They can cause extensive damage to insulation and wiring and are carriers of diseases including bubonic plague.
4. White-Footed Mice (Peromyscus leucopus)
- Appearance: Brown or white fur with distinctly white underbellies and feet.
- Habits: These mice are active climbers and often enter homes in search of food and nesting materials.
- Risks: Known carriers of Lyme disease and other infectious agents.
5. Deer Mice (Peromyscus maniculatus)
- Appearance: Similar to white-footed mice but with a more distinct bi-colored tail.
- Habits: Prefers outdoor settings but will invade homes, especially cottages and rural residences.
- Risks: They are primary carriers of hantavirus, which can be fatal to humans.
How to Prevent Rodent Invasions
1. Seal Entry Points
- Inspect your home for possible entry points and seal gaps or holes in walls, foundations, and around doors and windows.
- Use steel wool or caulk to block small openings and install door sweeps on exterior doors.
2. Maintain Cleanliness
- Keep food in sealed containers and dispose of garbage regularly.
- Clean crumbs and spills immediately, and ensure pet food is stored securely.
3. Eliminate Nesting Sites
- Remove clutter from attics, basements, and garages to reduce potential nesting sites.
- Trim tree branches and shrubs away from the house to minimize access points.
4. Use Bait and Traps
- Place rodent bait and traps in high-activity areas such as along walls and in dark corners.
- Regularly check and dispose of trapped rodents to prevent infestation growth.
When to Call the Experts
Even with the best preventive measures, sometimes professional intervention is necessary. If you suspect a rodent infestation in your home, don’t hesitate to contact Town & Country Pest Solutions.
We provide comprehensive pest control services in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse. Our experienced team can handle all your pest control needs, ensuring your home remains rodent-free throughout the cooler months.
By understanding the common rodent invaders and taking proactive steps to keep them out, you can enjoy a warm, cozy, and rodent-free home all winter long!
