They can. Protected edges beside foundations, sheds, decks, and other structures can provide suitable places for rats to establish burrows.
When the winter weather comes in, rodents start looking for a way out of the cold. It’s hard to blame them for that. Your property might just be their best bet, which is why some rodents will make burrows so they can get out of the wind, rain, and cold.
Rodent burrows can often be found along the edges of a structure rather than in the middle of an exposed lawn. If there is a nearby food source like garbage, compost, bird seed, or pet food, that would be another compelling reason for rodents to stay nearby.
So if this is a concern for you, start by looking around foundation lines, sheds, retaining walls, dense vegetation, and cluttered areas. A fresh opening, excavated soil, droppings, gnaw marks, or even outright spotting a rat can all alert you to their presence. That’s not to say every hole beside the house belongs to a rat. Other animals dig as well so that’s why it’s useful to look for other things like droppings and gnaw marks.
Reducing accessible food and clutter can make the property less useful to rodents. In fact, this is one of the better levers you have available for rodent control. Trash containers should close securely, spilled food should be cleaned up, and unnecessary debris against the structure can be reduced.
If you notice rodents outside, it’s a good idea to inspect your building as well. Rats often move inside when the weather is bad, so make sure there are not easy openings around garage doors, your foundation, vents, or utilities. Any of those can be entry points for enterprising rodents.
If rats are active around or getting into your Chicago property, Mosquito Squad of Chicago can help identify rodent activity and determine an appropriate control approach. Call (630) 556-8315 or request a free quote online.
