Rats and mice do not randomly wander into a home, just because a property is old or messy. Like all animals, they are simply seeking shelter, the basic essentials of life – namely food and water.
If a household has ready access to each of these, it is likely that they may see an increase in these unwanted visitors.
Food is usually the most tempting lure.
Pantry goods that are not stored in sealed containers, pet foods and bird seed, rubbish bins and scraps in the bin can all provide a rodent-friendly meal. Even a few stray crumbs under the bench or behind the kitchen appliances can sustain a mouse.
Outside food sources can also attract unwanted attention. Fruit trees, compost bins, veggie patches and pet feeding stations can all encourage these persistent pests to come investigate.
Once they have found a reliable food source, it won’t be long before they start looking for a warm and safe place to shelter. Roofs, cavities in walls and garages or sheds are always good options for small animals such as mice.
Rodents can fit through surprisingly small holes, so any gaps in the roof, vent openings, faulty pipes, entry doors or damaged building materials can provide an easy entrance and exit for these unwanted guests.
Bushy plants or trees that hang over the roof or hang close to the house can also be used by rats to gain access to your home. Thick undergrowth against the building can create a safe tunnel system for these pests and materials stored against the building can also provide a hiding place.
Signs of rodents in the home can include noises at night, droppings, gnawing marks, disturbed food packaging or strange smells. Some homeowners may also notice their pets digging at the same spot on a wall or ceiling.
Animals such as rats and mice need to constantly gnaw to keep their front teeth worn down, as they are continuously growing.
This means they will happily chew through timber, plastic, and any other material, in their determination to investigate every scent and sound that reaches their sensitive noses.
Water can also be a big attractor for these pests in urban areas. Leaky pipes, pet bowls outside, drains or other water sources can all keep these pests coming back.
Brisbane’s urban environment offers plenty of opportunities for food and shelter for unwanted varmints of all sizes, particularly in the restaurants, rubbish collection centres, high density housing, waterways or mature flora areas.
Local information from Brisbane Termite & Pest Control can help residents understand the pest species and environmental conditions commonly encountered across Brisbane.
The key to making a property less appealing is tackling various problems instead of looking at a single point.
Secure food supplies, ensure rubbish bins are always secured, and remove pet foods when possible.
Clear garage of clutter and check for any obvious gaps around the building.
Check nearby tree branches close to the roof and heavy overhanging foliage along the walls.
Though the sighting of a single rat or mouse is not necessarily an indicator that there is a large infestation, the fact there is more than one is most definitely a sign something is attracting them to your property. Finding what that something is should be your first order of business.
