Is Winter the Most Common Time to Have a Rodent Problem?

Dealing with rodents is never pleasant no matter the time of year. But you may feel like you are seeing more than usual during a certain season. If you have noticed that you seem to have a rodent problem more commonly during the fall and winter months, there’s a reason for that. With the onset of colder weather, rats, mice, and other rodents begin looking for shelter from the elements.

Once temperatures drop in the fall, it’s much more likely that you will spot a mouse scattering across your living room floor, or that you’ll hear squirrels in your attic. When it comes to regular house mice, they technically could be found any time of the year since they prefer to camp out indoors, but the majority of other rodents would like to stay outdoors if possible. However, with falling temps, it’s safer and much more comfortable for them inside the walls of your home.

Since you are aware that fall and winter are a riskier time when it comes to a rodent invasion in your home, it’s important to do all that you can to keep these pests out. First of all, take note of the food that they are searching for and make sure they don’t have easy access in your home. Depending on the rodent, they may be hunting for plants, grains, nuts, berries, meat, or fish. It’s obviously impossible to keep all of these things out of your home, so the way you store your food is important. Keep all of your dry goods sealed up in airtight containers that leave no room for entry. Rats and mice can easily gnaw through a cardboard box, so plastic, glass, or metal containers are recommended. You should also keep any fruits or veggies that you might normally leave out on the counter put away.

Since food, water, and shelter sources are a major draw, make sure you are limiting access to even the smallest drop or crumb. Sweep and mop your kitchen floor as often as possible, and vacuum other rooms in your house regularly as well. If you spill any food or drink, wipe it up immediately, before it has time to get sticky. Never leave dirty dishes sitting out in the sink, and put food away quickly after mealtimes. Also, be sure to fix any leaking faucets or AC vents around your home. And finally, make sure every crack and crevice in your home is sealed up. Mice and rats can come in through surprisingly small areas, so make it as difficult as possible for them to find their way in.

While it is possible that you could have a rodent problem any time of the year, winter certainly is the most common time. Once temperatures begin to fall, make sure you are doing all that you can to keep rodents out of your home.