Summer is a busy season for wildlife, and rodents are no exception. As temperatures rise, rats and mice become more active and are more likely to invade homes, garages, attics, and sheds in search of food, water, and shelter. Unfortunately, their presence can do more than damage insulation or chew wires — rodents are known carriers of dangerous diseases that can easily spread to humans and pets.
Diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, salmonella, and even rat-bite fever can be transmitted through rodent droppings, urine, nesting materials, or bites. During summer, when more people spend time outdoors or in seldom-used spaces like sheds or storage areas, the chances of accidental exposure rise.
Whether you’ve noticed signs of activity or simply want to prevent an infestation before it starts, here are several practical tips to help you control rodents and avoid health risks this summer.
Seal Entry Points
One of the most effective ways to keep rodents out is by sealing the places they can get in. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime, and rats can fit through openings the size of a quarter. Carefully inspect the exterior of your home or building, especially around the foundation, vents, roofline, and utility pipes.
Seal any cracks or gaps with rodent-proof materials such as steel wool, hardware cloth, or caulking. Don’t forget to check under sinks, inside closets, and behind appliances where rodents often enter from hidden wall spaces.
Keep Food and Waste Secure
Rodents are opportunistic feeders. Once they find a reliable food source, they’ll keep coming back. Make sure all food is stored in airtight containers, including dry goods like rice, cereal, and pet food. Don’t leave dirty dishes out overnight and wipe down surfaces after preparing meals.
Trash is another big attraction. Store garbage in bins with tight-fitting lids, and don’t let bags accumulate inside or near entry points to your home. If you compost, use a rodent-proof bin and avoid composting meat or fatty food scraps.
Maintain a Clean and Uncluttered Yard
A messy yard is an invitation for rodents. Tall grass, dense vegetation, woodpiles, and overgrown bushes all provide cover and nesting material. Trim back plants that grow close to your home, and remove any debris or outdoor clutter that could serve as hiding places.
If you have fruit trees or a vegetable garden, pick up fallen fruit and harvest ripe produce promptly. These food sources can attract not only rodents but also the insects they feed on.
Control Moisture and Water Sources
Rodents are drawn to areas with steady access to water, especially during hot, dry weather. Check your yard and foundation for areas where water may collect or leak. Repair any dripping outdoor faucets or hose bibs, and ensure gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the house.
Inside, check for plumbing leaks under sinks, in laundry rooms, and behind appliances. Use a dehumidifier in damp basements or crawlspaces to make those areas less inviting.
Use Traps and Rodent-Safe Deterrents
If you've already seen signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, shredded paper, gnaw marks, or strange noises in the walls, it's important to act quickly. Set up traps in areas of activity, but be cautious if you have children or pets. Enclosed bait stations or snap traps inside protective boxes are safer alternatives.
Some homeowners also use natural deterrents like peppermint oil, mothballs, or ultrasonic devices. While these may offer some repellent effect in small areas, they’re rarely effective for active infestations and should be combined with other control strategies.
Recognize the Signs of a Rodent Infestation
Early detection makes all the difference. Common signs of a rodent problem include:
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Small black droppings in cupboards or drawers
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Greasy smear marks along baseboards
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Scratching or scurrying noises in walls or ceilings, especially at night
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Chewed wires, insulation, or food packaging
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A strong, musty ammonia smell from urine
If you notice any of these signs, take immediate action to reduce the risk of contamination or damage.
Call a Wildlife Control Professional
Some infestations are simply too large or too dangerous to handle alone. If your efforts aren’t working, or if you're concerned about exposure to rodent-borne diseases, it’s best to call in professionals. At Wildlife X Team, we specialize in humane and environmentally responsible rodent removal. We don’t just get rid of the problem — we identify the entry points, clean up contaminated areas, and implement long-term prevention strategies to keep rodents out for good.
Protect Your Health and Home This Summer
The summer season should be about enjoying your home and outdoor spaces, not worrying about rodent infestations or health risks. With a little effort and attention, you can dramatically reduce your chances of encountering a rodent problem this year.
If you need expert help, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Wildlife X Team today for a thorough inspection and customized rodent control plan.