Rats and mice are a pest control nightmare that are not only a nuisance but dangerous as well. They are carriers of numerous diseases such as; murine typhus, leptospirosis, trichinosis, salmonellosis (food poisoning), and ratbite fever. Plague is a disease that can be carried by both roof and Norway rats, but in California it is more commonly associated with ground squirrels, chipmunks, and native wood rats.
To keep your home free and clear of rodent issues, you should ensure that your home is unwelcoming to rodents. There are simple techniques to reduce the proclivity of their access to your environment. Review the following suggestions to avoid unwanted infestations of rodents.
Harborage reduction
The best way of mouse or Rat Control is to eliminate the rodents food and water source
Feed your pet only the amount of food it will eat at a feeding, and store pet food in rodent-proof containers
Identify harborage areas
Keep vegetation and tall grass short. Tall grass protects rodents from predators.
Keep overhanging trees cut back. Overhanging trees provide dark shadowy areas where rodents feel safe and protected
Piles of debris should be removed. Garbage provides food harborage areas for rodents
A 2 foot wide barrier of cement or crushed rock should be established around commercial structures
Climbing hedges such as Algerian or English ivy, star jasmine, and honeysuckle on fences or buildings are very conducive to roof rat infestations and should be thinned or removed if possible
Dumpsters are one of the most common rodent problem areas
Make sure dumpsters are large enough to prevent spills
Make sure dumpsters have tight lids
Store dumpsters 25-50 yards from the exterior of structure if possible
Identify areas that need to be rodent proofed
Close all holes in exterior and interior walls
Permit no openings over
Install self-closing devices on frequently used doors
Install vinyl or rubber sweeps under garage doors to eliminate any gaps
Seal all pipes, drains and vents, they need to be tight
Chimneys need to be capped and in good condition.
Remember a rat can fit through a inch opening and a mouse can fit through a inch opening
Repair or replace any damaged ventilation screen around the foundation and under eaves
Be sure that all window and door screens are in good repair
Coarse steel wool, wire screen, and lightweight sheet metal are excellent materials for plugging gaps and holes
If you follow the above suggestions for Mouse Control, you should be able to decrease significantly the likelihood of rodent infestations for your residence. By reducing rodents food and water sources, areas to hide and gain entry to your home you safeguard your family from this dangerous pest.
