Rodents are a usual problem across Manchester neighborhoods, including Hanover Hill, Rimmon Heights, and the North End. While historic and older homes are at risk of structural damage, infestations spread faster in apartments and dense neighborhoods. Cold winter days push rats and mice inside homes in search of both food and shelter, while during summer, rodents are most active near yards and garages. Once you see signs, call a local service in Manchester like Anchor Pest Services, which can offer IPM-focused treatments and solutions. Learn more in this post about how you can protect your home from common rodents.
Rodent Behavior Explained
House mice are the most common indoor invaders. These are small in size and move fast, so you may not always see them in the open. Norway rats are larger in size and often live in basements, sewers, and close to foundations. Deer mice are also found in Manchester, especially in wooded and suburban areas. Certain practices can cause more rodent problems in your home. For instance, if you leave pet food bowls in the open or don’t have secure trash cans, you will continue to see rats and mice. Too much clutter inside the house also creates more nesting sites. Because rodents can reproduce dozens in a season, you have to focus on early detection.
Identifying Rodents in Your Home
The typical sign of rats and mice is droppings, which you are likely to find in the kitchen and storage rooms. You may also spot gnaw marks on wires, wooden furniture, and cardboard boxes, while nesting materials can be seen in garages, attics, and basements. As rodents work the most at night, be mindful of sounds, especially scratching noises, inside walls and attics. A strong odor may indicate the presence of hidden nests and urine. Other pets, such as cats and dogs, also become more aware when there are rats and mice inside the house.
Know the Risks from Rodents
Some serious diseases that rodents can spread include Salmonella, hantavirus, and leptospirosis. These pests can also contaminate food sources and pantry items, which can cause other health problems. Droppings and nests can trigger allergies and asthma, especially in kids, seniors, and adults with existing conditions. Chewed wires could cause fires, while damaged insulation and other belongings can mean spending massive amounts on repairs.
Expert Prevention Tips
Inspect the perimeter for gaps, holes, and cracks, and if there are no pests inside, you can safely seal these entry points. You can seal such gaps using steel wool or mesh. Rodents are smart, so proper sealing is critical, and if you don’t have the skills, consider calling professionals. Check whether the door sweeps are old and need replacement. It is also critical to remove all food sources, such as pet bowls, pantry items, and food waste. As pests mostly come from the yard and garden, spend on landscaping. Remove all unwanted bushes, tree branches, and vegetation, and all compost bins and firewood should be at least 20 feet away from the main building.
Call an Exterminator in Manchester
Inspecting your property, especially if it was built in the 80s, regularly is a must for preventing the most common pest infestations. You need a locally-known and reliable pest control service in Manchester that can offer prompt services and will also offer preventive measures. Don’t shy away from asking about their approach, which should be more about safe removal rather than using harsh chemicals. Before the experts start the treatment, ask whether you need to clear certain things or move furniture. Also, insist on inspections at least once during the fall to prepare for the colder months.