Many people will be putting away their patio furniture and BBQs to spend spare time indoors during the coming winter. Unfortunately, there may be unwanted guests joining you! According to the rodent control experts at 24-7 Animal & Pest Control in St. Louis, MO, winter is the time of year when rat and mice infestations are most common.

While rats tend to infiltrate buildings in urban and rural areas, mice are more prevalent in suburban locations. Thanks to an unbelievable ability to manipulate their bodies, every lodging is susceptible to rodent problems—mice can sneak through foundation cracks roughly the size of a pencil, while rats can squeeze through quarter-sized holes. Here are a couple reasons why they would try to settle in your home:

Why Rats & Mice Seek Indoor Shelter During Winter 

Food

In the winter, food is harder to come by for all wild animals, and kitchens filled with holiday treats are objects of intense desire. Since mice favor grain-based products, you’re more likely to see gnaw marks or tears in bags of cereal and rice. Rats, on the other hand, will eat almost anything. Food crumbs scattered throughout the home can indicate their presence, as rats take food with them as they move around.

Shelter

The interior of a home or business provides the ideal winter haven for humans and rodents alike. Not only are building interiors warmer than outdoor nests—they also provide shelter from dangerous predators. Call a pest control company if you notice droppings or greasy track marks throughout the building, as these are clear signs of a rodent infestation.

While rodent control problems are common during winter, there are several steps you can take to protect your home and business. Call a trusted wildlife control specialist at the first sign of a problem, and you’ll be on your way to a pest-free property. See why 24-7 Animal & Pest Control is the most reputable rodent control team in town by calling (314) 236-7378 or visiting them online.