Rodents Don’t Hibernate: Why Mice and Rats Move in During December
As December arrives, we all look for ways to make our homes warm and cozy. But here’s a little secret: we’re not the only ones. While you might think most critters would be deep in slumber for the winter, mice and rats are wide awake and looking for a new place to call home. And your house looks like a five-star resort. Because you don’t want to worry about who (or WHAT) you’ll find scurrying around your home this winter.
Many people believe rodents hibernate, but that’s not the case. They stay active all year, and when the weather outside gets frightful, your home becomes delightfully inviting. Let’s dive into why these uninvited guests might be knocking on your door this December.
Why Mice and Rats Are a Problem in Winter
Unlike bears, rodents don’t hibernate. Instead, they seek out warm places with easy access to food and water to survive the cold months. Your home checks all the boxes.
The Perfect Winter Getaway
As their outdoor food sources dwindle and temperatures plummet, mice and rats are on a mission to find shelter. They are masters of squeezing into tight spaces—a mouse can fit through a hole the size of a dime, and a rat can get through one the size of a quarter. They’ll happily nest in your attic, wall voids, basement, or even behind large appliances.
A Non-Stop Buffet
Your kitchen pantry, pet food bowls, and even unsecured trash cans are a feast for a hungry rodent. Once they find a reliable food source, mice and rats have no reason to leave. What starts as one or two can quickly become a much larger problem, as they reproduce rapidly.
The Trouble with Rodent Roommates
Having mice or rats move in is more than just an inconvenience. You shouldn’t have to worry about the issues these pests can cause.
Property Damage
Rodents have teeth that never stop growing, which means they chew constantly to keep them filed down. Unfortunately, your home’s infrastructure is fair game. They’re known to gnaw on:
- Electrical wiring: This creates a significant fire hazard.
- Drywall and insulation: They will tear through walls and shred insulation to build their nests.
- Pipes: Chewed-through pipes can lead to frustrating and expensive water damage.
Unsanitary Conditions
Rodents are not clean houseguests. They leave behind droppings and urine wherever they travel, contaminating surfaces like countertops and pantry shelves. Also bringing in fleas and ticks. They can carry and spread various germs, which is not something you want in your living space.
How to Discourage Rodent Intruders
The best way to handle a rodent problem is to prevent it from starting. Making your home less appealing to them is your first and best line of defense.
Seal Off All Entry Points
Take a walk around your home’s exterior and look for any potential openings.
- Fill cracks and holes in your foundation with steel wool and caulk.
- Ensure weather stripping on doors and windows is intact.
- Cover vents and chimney openings with sturdy mesh.
Remove Their Food Supply
Don’t give mice and rats a reason to stick around.
- Store all food, including pet food, in airtight containers.
- Keep your kitchen clean and free of crumbs.
- Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids.
Attempting to handle a rodent infestation on your own can be difficult and often ineffective. A professional pest control expert can identify how they’re getting in, determine the extent of the problem, and create a plan to get them out. Contact a rodent control professional today to get your home back to being just for you and your family.
