Insights, Tips, and Tales

Cooler Weather and Pandemic To Blame For Increased Rodent Activity… Learn How to Fight Back

_ëîé_1

Cooler Weather and Pandemic To Blame For Increased Rodent Activity… Learn How to Fight Back

Just about all of us will be spending more time indoors as the weather gets cooler —  rodents included. They’ll be seeking a warm place to live until the cold weather passes … and that place may very well end up being your home.

But cooler temperatures aren’t the only reason why you’ll notice increased rodent activity. The pandemic is also to blame. Restaurants and other commercial spaces were and are still closed to the public meaning there’s a shortage of food for rodents who rely on trash from these places. So, rodents are out and about looking for food, some wandering into residential areas.

It’s not uncommon for rodents to seek refuge in our homes. In fact, some experts believe the vast majority of the places in which we humans live have rodents living somewhere inside. But because more of them are exploring residential areas for food, more of them are getting into our homes. And they’re good at getting in and good at hiding.

That said, it’s critical to look for and recognize the signs of rodent activity in your home. While a couple of varmints scurrying around inside is bad enough, if left unchecked, even small numbers could quickly grow to a full-blown infestation.

Signs of Rodents

Rodents are masters at sneaking around – they may very well be the original ninjas — but if you’re paying close attention, you’ll notice clues to their presence. Look for the following signs when trying to determine if your home is under a rodent attack:

  • Musky or rotting odor
  • Droppings
  • Gnawed holes
  • Chew marks
  • Scampering noises
  • Unusual pet behavior
  • Potential allergy attacks

Dangers of Contact With Rodents

Rodents can directly transmit numerous, sometimes fatal, diseases, including rat-bite fever, Salmonellosis, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, and Tularemia. Such diseases can be spread to humans and allergic reactions caused by direct contact and bites, as well as via rodent urine, feces, and saliva.

Rodents can also promote transmission of diseases indirectly through the insects they carry, such as ticks, fleas, and mites. Babesiosis, Murine Typhus, and Scrub Typhus can be spread this way.

How to Keep Rodents Away

To prevent rodent infestations and the spread of diseases they carry, it’s critical to protect yourself and others by taking precautionary measures, including the following:

  • Seal any holes or other entry points into your home. (An adult mouse can squeeze through a space as small as a dime.)
  • Install screens in vents and openings to chimneys.
  • Keep attics, basements, and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry.
  • Eliminate sources of moisture, such as that from leaking pipes and clogged drains.
  • Eliminate food sources by keeping food tightly sealed and stored away.
  • Store trash bins a safe distance from home (some experts recommend 30 feet).
  • Get rid of debris on your lawn.
  • Keep your lawn cut short and shrubs trimmed.
  • Set traps near where you believe rodents are nesting or places they use for travel.
  • If you need assistance, get professional help …

Call Waynes!

Waynes fully understands the ramifications of a rodent infestation and how it can be a serious hazard to you, your family, and your pets, even to the structural integrity of your house. However, attempting to control an infestation can be dangerous. Also, the most effective rodent control requires an integrated approach.

That’s why we offer the Residential SMART Pest System. It’s an intelligent system that constantly monitors and instantly reacts to pest activity, preventing costly infestations in an environmentally friendly way.

How Does It Work?

A Waynes’ Service Professional will inspect the space where you’re having problems, consult with you to fully understand the threat, then devise a solution. Next, that Service Professional will strategically place sensors that can detect rodents from up to six feet away. In the event of activity, we’ll be notified immediately.

You won’t have to worry about a thing. We’ll study the activity reports, then start relocating traps and making other adjustments that will put a stop to the infestation once and for all.

The Smart Pest System has many benefits including:

  • Around the clock surveillance
  • Detects blind spots
  • Allows for adaptation in the fight against rodents
  • Non-toxic pest control
  • Prevents costly infestations
  • There’s simply less for you to worry about

 

For more information about Waynes Residential SMART Pest system, contact us today!

Latest from Waynes Blog

Waynes Lawn Care is Available in the Gulf Coast!

For years, Waynes has been trusted to keep lawns lush, green, and barefoot good across our service areas. Now, we’re bringing our expert lawn care program to the Gulf Coast! With over 8,000 properties already enjoying the benefits of our year-round lawn care program, homeowners across Alabama Gulf Coast and the Florida Panhandle can now…

Learn More >

Introducing EnviroPest Bundles

Home maintenance can feel like a lot — but it doesn’t have to be. That’s why we created EnviroPest Bundles at Waynes Pest Control. These bundles let you pick the services your home needs, so you only pay for what you want. Bundling also means less paperwork, fewer service providers, and a simpler, more convenient…

Learn More >

Protect Yourself from Misleading Pest Control Sales

At Waynes Pest Control, we pride ourselves on delivering honest, expert service that families can trust. Unfortunately, not all companies play by the same rules — especially when it comes to door-to-door sales. What’s Happening During warmer months, some national pest control companies send large teams of door-to-door salespeople into neighborhoods. These reps are often…

Learn More >

guide to knoxville tn pest control

The Ultimate Guide to Pest Control in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville, Tennessee, with its beautiful landscapes and vibrant community, offers a wonderful place to live and work. However, like any region, it’s not immune to the challenges posed by unwanted pests. From the humid summers that breed mosquitoes to the cozy winters that invite rodents indoors, effective pest control in Knoxville, TN is essential for…

Learn More >

waynes knoxville seasonal pest control

Seasonal Pest Control in Knoxville: What Pests to Watch Out for Each Season

Knoxville’s four seasons present distinct pest control challenges, each requiring tailored management. Spring sees a rapid surge in insect activity as temperatures rise, while winter’s cold forces pests to seek refuge indoors, leading to different types of infestations. Understanding these seasonal patterns allows for targeted prevention, significantly reducing infestations and ensuring a more comfortable living…

Learn More >

7 Tips for Effective Mosquito, Flea & Tick Control Around Your Home

If you live in Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, or the Florida Panhandle, you know mosquito, flea, and tick season arrives early and can stick around well into the fall. These pests thrive in our region’s warm, humid weather—and without the right steps, they can quickly take over your yard. At Waynes Pest Control, we help homeowners…

Learn More >

Protect Your Home from Rodents and Hantavirus

The recent passing of Betsy Arakawa, wife of Gene Hackman, due to Hantavirus has raised awareness of rodent-borne diseases. While contracting Hantavirus is rare, it’s essential to take precautions against mice in your home. Why Are Rodents a Problem? Each year, 21 million U.S. homes experience rodent intrusions, especially in colder months. Mice and rats…

Learn More >

Lawn Scalping: The Ultimate Spring Refresh

You’ve endured the sight of brown grass all winter long, and you’re probably eager to see your lush lawn return this spring. Start the season on the right foot by giving your lawn a fresh start with a good scalping. What is Lawn Scalping? Lawn scalping (or grass scalping) is the process of cutting your…

Learn More >

Protect Your Home from Moisture and Pests with Crawl Space Encapsulation

Your home is your sanctuary, and keeping it safe from moisture, mold, and pests is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Waynes now offers Crawl Space Encapsulation and Restoration Services in our Knoxville, TN and Huntsville, AL service areas! Why Crawl Space Encapsulation Matters Many homeowners overlook…

Learn More >

Scroll to Top