No one wants to think about rodents infiltrating their home, but ignoring the signs can make the problem worse. Quickly spotting a potential rodent issue can save you both time and money. Here are eight telltale signs you’re dealing with a rodent infestation—and what you can do about it.
Strange Noises
If you’re hearing scratching, scampering, or squeaking at night, there’s a good chance rodents are active in your home. These noises often come from walls, ceilings, or behind furniture, especially when it’s quiet. Rodents are nocturnal, so it’s worth investigating if you’re hearing activity during late hours.
Droppings
Rodent droppings are another obvious sign of an infestation. These are often small, pellet-like pieces found in areas like the kitchen, pantry, cabinets, or near garbage bins. Fresh droppings look dark and moist, while older ones appear dry and brittle. Spotting droppings near food sources or pet bowls is a red flag that requires immediate attention.
Chew Marks
Rodents have strong teeth and a constant need to gnaw. Damaged food packaging, chewed-up cables, and bite marks on wooden furniture indicate that critters have moved in. Keep an eye on electrical wires, too. It’s a favorite target that could lead to dangerous situations like short circuits or fires.
Nests and Burrows
Rodents create nests out of shredded materials like newspaper, cardboard, or fabric. You might find these nests in hidden, dark spaces such as behind appliances, inside cabinets, or in the corners of your attic. Look for burrows outdoors near your home’s foundation. These signs indicate that rodents may visit your property regularly, and you may have an infestation.
Odors
A strong, unpleasant smell that doesn’t seem to go away could point to a rodent problem. Rodents leave behind urine and droppings that emit a musty odor. If one dies inside the walls or other hard-to-reach places, the smell will worsen over time. This unpleasant scent can linger and make clean-up services or professional rodent control even more crucial.
Rodent Sightings
Spotting a mouse or rat out in the open might seem surprising, but sometimes rodents scurry across floors or walls in search of food. If you have already seen one, remember that rodents breed quickly, and where there’s one, there are likely many more hiding out. A visual sighting typically signals a well-established infestation.
Prevention
Preventing rodents from entering your home is key to avoiding infestations. Make sure you seal gaps and cracks in walls, doors, and windows. Keep food stored in airtight containers, regularly tidy up potential nesting materials, and make it a habit to clean crumbs and spills immediately. Setting traps or repellents can also help reduce the risks before things escalate.
What To Do
If you suspect a rodent infestation, act fast. Start by thoroughly cleaning the areas where you’ve detected activity and setting up traps if possible. However, tackling infestations on your own may not always address the issue at its core. At that point, finding the best rodent control service is essential for fully eradicating the pests and reclaiming your home. A professional service will offer tailored solutions to tackle the problem while preventing future infestations.
Rodent problems might seem overwhelming, but with quick action and the right service, you can return to enjoying a pest-free home. Don’t wait—peace of mind is just a step away.
