Not exactly. Cooler weather increases the value of indoor shelter, but mice still need a usable opening before they can get inside.
Mice live outdoors around the year. But once the temperatures start to drop in the fall, that becomes a lot less attractive to them. This is what pushes them to start exploring garages, basements, crawl spaces, sheds, attics, and wall voids. Any of those can be more comfortable in the winter because it lets them get out of the cold.
Weather on its own won’t cause an infestation. To have a rodent problem indoors, rodents have to be able to get inside. This is not hard for them as mice can squeeze into space just the size of a quarter-inch, roughly the size of a dime. Small openings around garage doors, foundations, exterior doors, vents, siding, and utility penetrations can easily be that big, and can thus provide entry.
Once inside, if there is easy access to pet food, bird seed, trash, or pantry items, that can encourage rodents to stick around. If there is a lot of clutter around, rodents can more easily go unnoticed and even shred things like cardboard or fabric for nests.
Fall is the best time to inspect your property for small openings. Check door corners, weatherstripping, garage seals, foundation transitions, and utility openings. Use caulk to seal gaps and replace any worn or broken vents or screens you find. While doing this, be sure to also secure anything a rodent might be able to eat in heavy plastic or metal containers.
Throughout the cold season, keep an eye out for signs of rodent problems. Watch for droppings, gnaw marks, or shredded material. You might also smell musty odors or hear strange sounds like scratching in the walls. Any can indicate a rodent infestation, which would mean it’s time to call a professional.
If mice are active around or getting into your Springfield property, Mosquito Squad of Springfield can help identify rodent activity and determine an appropriate control approach. Call (413) 418-3359 or request a free quote online.
