Iowa is known for having extremely cold winters. Some may assume that during these freezing winters, pest problems aren’t likely. Unfortunately, that’s not the case! In fact, rodent infestations are quite common this time of year. According to The National Pest Management Association (NPMA), upwards of 21 million homes in the U.S. are invaded by rodents each winter! Rats and mice come indoors to escape dropping temperatures outdoors. To prevent an infestation this time of year, it’s essential to know how to safeguard your home by preventing rats and mice.
Are Rodents Hibernating in the Winter?
Many animals, including certain types of larger rodents, hibernate for the winter. Rats and mice, however, do not hibernate. They are active throughout the entire year. To survive the cold winters, they will infest homes in search of warmth and shelter. Worst of all, mice are infamous for squeezing their way inside through holes as small as the size of a dime!
Once inside, they can be extremely destructive and even dangerous! Rats and mice are capable of spreading bacteria and pathogens, which is why it’s so important to prevent them in the first place.
Preventing Rats & Mice Checklist
To prevent a rodent infestation, it’s recommended to regularly check your home. By locating and fixing areas that have damage, you can lessen the chance of a rat or mice invasion. The eight locations to check include:
- Roof
- Vents
- Screens
- Vegetation
- Gutters
- Outside
- Garage
- Foundation
Winter Rodent Control
By regularly inspecting your property for vulnerabilities, you can help protect yourself from an infestation! If you need assistance checking your home for rodents, the exterminators at Springer Professional Home Services are here to help. We understand how frustrating rodent problems are, which is why we work to prevent them from occurring in the first place. To learn more about how we can keep you rodent-free, call us today!
