With the unprecedented Texas winter storm, rodents such as mice, rats, squirrels, opossums, and raccoons will be more determined to find shelter.
And sadly, with everything going on, this can mean our homes.
Here's what to look out for.
Opossums
Opossums are a common pest in Texas. You've probably seen them crawling along the fenceline in your backyard.
Though opossums are not rodents (they're marsupials), they can be a nuisance and require a rodent pest control expert.
Opossums are able to survive in a wide range of conditions - even the record-breaking Texas winter storm.
To keep opossums from taking residence in and around your home, make sure to store trash in sealed, rodent-proof trashcans. Rodents and marsupials love pet food; therefore, bring any outside pet food indoors.
Worried about opossums?
Our pest control experts will make sure your home is free of opossums.
Rats
During a heavy winter storm, like the one we just had, rats will more aggressively try to get indoors.
There are many signs of a rat infestation, including:
- Droppings (A rat's droppings are typically the size of a Tic-Tac)
- Chewed out holes
- Grease marks (rub marks)
- Chewed electrical wires
- Paper-like material chewed apart
- Noises in the attic
- Actually seeing rats
One way to protect your home from roof rats is to trim any tree branches that are over your roofline.
If you're worried about a rat infestation, contact a rodent pest control professional.
Mice
Just like rats, mice will work harder to get into a safe, warm shelter.
Mice will feed on human food and chew through paper boxes and plastic bags in pantries.
Signs of mice are:
- Droppings (A mouse's droppings are typically the size of rice)
- Grease marks (rub marks)
- Chewed electrical wires
- Paper-like material chewed apart
- Noises in the attic
- Actually seeing mice
Have rodents infested your home?
Our pest control experts will make sure your home is free of rodents.
Squirrels
If squirrels were in your attic before the winter storm, then they will likely still be there. Their scurrying in the attic can be quite annoying and destructive.
To help prevent squirrels from getting into your home:
- Trim tree branches that overhang your roof
- Seal any entry points into your home
- Repair any roof intersects that may have widened over time
Getting rid of squirrels can be a challenge. If you have squirrels in your home, it doesn't hurt to call a rodent control professional. Like us, they will typically do a free rodent inspection.
Raccoons
Raccoons are a common pest Texas homeowners have to deal with. Raccoon signs are both easy to see and easy to hear. They can damage a home's insulation, siding, shingles, and roof trim.
Many homeowners think that having a dog will deter raccoons, but raccoons have been known to kill dogs. Moreover, raccoons can carry canine distemper and/or rabies.
Simple ways to help prevent raccoons:
- Make sure your garbage is in a rodent-proof container
- Don't leave pet food out
- Keep your landscaping trim
- Fence your gardens
- Discard any fallen fruit from trees
If you have raccoons in your attic, it's best to call a pest professional because raccoons can be aggressive. A rodent removal professional will know how to trap and remove raccoons.
How Rodents Get Into Homes (infographic)
If you're concerned your home is vulnerable to rodents getting in, we've created a quick infographic on how rodents get into a home.