Rodents often seek shelter as temperatures drop, and foundations tend to have nearby debris they can stay in. Garbage gives them an easy source of food while there.
Rats are active throughout the entire year, but when temperatures start to drop, they need to find shelter. Homeowners often see them doing this around foundations, sheds, decks, garages, and other outdoor structures. When they start going inside, then it’s a big problem.
Food is also very important. Garbage bins can absolutely attract rats when the lid is loose or trash is spilled. If there is pet food or bird seed inside, or compost and other readily accessible material, rats can eat that. They can also seek shelter inside the bin itself, meaning they can enjoy both food and shelter.
If you think you have a rodent problem on your hands, look out for droppings, gnaw marks, greasy rub marks, damaged containers, burrow openings, or repeated sightings along the same route. Proper sanitation makes your property far less appealing to foraging pests. Keep a tight lid on trash and clean up spills. If you have seed or pet food, keep it in sealed containers of heavy plastic or metal.
Then look at the house itself. Pay attention to cracks around the foundation, garage doors and other exterior doors, vents, and utility penetrations. Any of these can give rodents a way inside. Just because you see rats near the garbage bin, it doesn’t mean they’re already in the house. But it doesn’t mean they’ll stay around the trash either. It’s best to take action before they go inside.
If rats are active around or getting into your Metro Detroit property, Mosquito Squad of Metro Detroit can help identify rodent activity and determine an appropriate control approach. Call (844) 630-1030 or request a free quote online.
