During the cold winter months in Maryland, most of us would rather cuddle indoors to stay warm than spend time outdoors in the freezing temperatures.
Rodents are no exception to this. Rodents, like humans, prefer to hang out inside and eat, drink, and cozy up in their nests this time of year, which is not great news for homeowners.
If you’re concerned about rodents invading your home this winter, here is everything you need to know about what may be attracting them to your home in the first place and how to get rid of them.
Common Types of Rodents Found in Homes
While most people instantly jump to mice when they think of rodents, there are several types of common rodents in Maryland that can invade your home. Some of the most common types of rodents found in Maryland homes include:
Mice
It is estimated that 95 percent of homes in the U.S. have mice nesting materials in their attics, making them rife for mouse infestation.
Mice typically enter homes to seek out food and water sources, as well as shelter from the elements. Mice are smaller rodents, typically only a few inches long. The two most common mouse species in Maryland are deer and house mice.
While mouse traps are usually effective, you may have to resort to greater measures to get rid of mice when traps don’t work.
Rats
Rats and mice are commonly referred to interchangeably, but there are some key differences. Rats are not as commonly found in homes compared to mice, but they are still one of the top household pests in the U.S.
Rats tend to be larger, with longer tails and more robust bodies, compared to the smaller, more agile mice. While mice are often found in walls and attics, rats prefer basements, crawl spaces, and sewers.
Squirrels
Squirrels are another type of rodent that are commonly found in homes, especially attics. Squirrels are more common in urban and suburban neighborhoods, where they often jump from tree branches and even the roofs of other houses to gain access to a home.
Other rodents
Other types of rodents, such as chipmunks, voles, and muskrats, are not as commonly found in homes in Maryland., but it is still possible to have an encounter with them. These pests will usually enter a home for the same reason as other types of rodents- to find food and water sources and to seek shelter from the cold weather.
What Attracts Rodents to Your Property?
The main reason that rodents are attracted to homes is to seek food, water, and shelter. Homes and buildings provide all of these resources, especially during the cold winter months when living outdoors can be brutal for these tiny pests.
Older homes with cracks and crevices are easier for rodents to access than newer homes, especially larger properties where they can go unnoticed for a longer period of time. Homes with heated attics and basements are also typically more appealing to these pests, as they will often enter through these rooms.
Additionally, homes that are cluttered or have a lot of overgrown grass or foliage in the yard are more appealing to rodents, as they give them more places to hide and find essential resources.
To understand more about what attracts rodents to your Maryland home, let’s discuss the three things they need for survival.
Availability of Food
Rodents need food in order to survive, and they are more likely to find it in homes than out on the street.
Rodents are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for any accessible food source, especially in areas where human activity is frequent. Leftover food, crumbs, pet food, and even trash can attract them inside. If your pantry is poorly sealed or food is left out in the open, rodents will seize the opportunity to feast.
Access to Water
Many homes also provide good water sources for rodents, especially if you live in an older home or have a leaky pipe. To reduce your chances of a rodent infestation, be sure to address these issues promptly.
Shelter and Nesting Sites
Finally, homes typically give rodents a warm, safe place to build their nests. They will often use materials found around the house, such as cloth, insulation, and paper shreds, to build their nesting sites.
What Damage Can Rodents Do to Your Home?
You may think rodents are innocuous because they are so common.
However, the presence of rodents in your home can cause a lot of damage, especially structural and electrical damage. According to one estimate, rodents cost US residents around $87.5 million annually in damage to properties.
Rodents often chew through wiring, which can cost homeowners a lot of time and money to repair. They can also chew through wood, baseboards, and even pipes, severely damaging the structural integrity of a home.
Signs of Rodents in Your Home
Don’t let a rodent infestation go before it’s too late. There are several signs of a rodent infestation to be aware of, including:
- Gnaw marks on walls and furniture
- Rodent droppings
- A strong, musky odor
- Grease marks on walls and floors
- Gnaw marks on food packages
- Random shredded materials around the home
- Small holes in walls and baseboards
- Noises coming from inside the walls, especially at night
- Seeing live or dead rodents
How Can You Prevent Rodents from Entering Your Home?
Preventing a rodent infestation is not as difficult as it may seem. Some preventative measures homeowners can take include:
- Sealing cracks and crevices with caulk or steel wool
- Applying weatherstripping to doors and windows
- Removing excess clutter from the home
- Maintaining proper lawn care year-round
- Properly seal and store all food and drink containers
- Repair any leaking pipes or faucets
In addition, many exterminators, including Pest Czar, offer monthly pest control services that help prevent rodents and other pests from entering your property.
When to Call a Pest Control Professional
If you suspect that you may be dealing with a rodent infestation, be sure to contact a pest control professional right away. Rodents can be difficult to get rid of, and you’ll want an experienced exterminator to recommend a targeted plan of action to kill all of the rodents in your home and keep them out for good.
FAQs
Do rodents enter homes during all seasons or only in winter?
While rodents can infest a home any time of the year, they are more likely to enter during the winter months when they are seeking shelter from the cold.
Are there any natural remedies to repel rodents?
Rodents are said to dislike the smell of certain essential oils, such as peppermint, citronella, and eucalyptus. However, it is important to note that enlisting the help of a professional exterminator will give you the best chance of getting rid of the rodents in your home for good.
Why do rodents chew on wires and insulation in my home?
Rodents like to chew on wires and insulation mainly because their teeth are constantly growing, and chewing prevents them from getting too long.