If you’ve noticed any chew marks, rodent tracks, or strange noises in your home, you may have a few critters living with you. As the Knoxville, TN,  pest control experts at Southeast Termite & Pest Control explain, this problem is common in the winter. During the colder months, rats and mice tend to move into homes, where they may cause damage or spread disease. Why does this happen?

To answer this question, these professionals have put together the following guide.

Pest Control Experts on Why Rodents Move Into Homes During Winter

As small, warm-blooded animals, rodents often struggle to obtain enough warmth to survive throughout the winter season. As a result, your heated home is an attractive place for them to live. They also struggle to find enough food throughout this season, as the plants and nuts they normally eat become scarce in their natural habitat. This causes them to look elsewhere for a food source. If they find that much-needed nutrition in your home, they’re likely to stay as unwanted houseguests.

How You Can Keep Them Out

Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to keep these critters outside. First, check for openings and other areas where they may enter the house. For example, walk around both the exterior and interior, searching for gaps in the siding, foundation, or windows. If you find any openings, make sure you seal them right away.

You should also prevent the critters from finding food or water. Sweep daily to clean any wayward crumbs and store food in airtight containers. This will make it more difficult for rodents to find enough food, forcing them to move on from your house.

 

If you notice any signs of a rodent infestation, contact the pest control experts at Southeast Termite & Pest Control. With more than 50 years of experience in the industry, these professionals can help rid your property of pests while preventing future infestations. To learn more about their services, including termite control, contact a friendly representative today by calling (865) 925-3700. You can also find more information on their website.