Does it seem strange to refer to rodents as dangerous? If so, there are definitely some things you should know about rats and mice. While they're certainly not much to look at, don't underestimate the ability of these two rodents to impact your health and damage your property. Squirrels can also create a problem. Many Jacksonville residents feed those furry-tailed rodents, not realizing that they could invite property damage and increase fleas and ticks in their yards. Join us as we discuss common rodents in Jacksonville, how different types of rodents can present dangers, and how to naturally deter them from hanging out on your property. Before we start, we want to point out that the best way to manage rodent pressures and prevent rodent infestations is to get year-round pest control in Jacksonville. A professional service plan manages rodents, and one food source rodents eat— bugs. If you want to get pest control service for your home, jump to our contact page for assistance. With that said, let's look at what you can expect from rodents in your yard and what DIY methods work to keep them away.
Types Of Rodents That Commonly Invade Jacksonville Homes
There are only a few kinds of rodents that pester us in Jacksonville. We're only going to discuss the rodents that get inside our homes. The worst of all rodent pests are house mice. These gray-colored rodents love living in structures and are hard to get rid of once they get inside. It is much easier to keep them out than to get them out.
Two other kinds of rodents can go from being backyard rodents to home-infesting pests. They are rats and squirrels. Some species are worse than others.
- On top of the pest list is the roof rat. They're the black ones. Roof rats love to get into attic spaces and stay permanently. Once inside, they often explore every level in search of food.
- Norway rats are another common rat pest in Jacksonville. They're the big, fat, brown rats. While they can get into homes and infest them permanently, sometimes they stay in ground burrows in the yard.
- Squirrels are common backyard visitors. In many cases, they remain outdoors. Unfortunately, they have the potential to be attic pests.
- Chipmunks are similar to squirrels. They prefer to live outdoors and only rarely get inside. Unlike squirrels, they don't take to living inside for any length of time, and infestations are short-lived.
These are the rodents pests you're up against. Now let's look at how these animals present a danger to your health and property.
The Damage & Dangers Rodents Can Create Around Your Home
All rodents have strong incisors that never stop growing. They often file these teeth on wood. If they decide to do this on your home, they can accidentally create an entry point and get inside, which is the primary concern most residents have about rodents. But they do more with those teeth than you might imagine.
- Rodents damage screens, window and door frames, weatherstripping, door sweeps, vent covers, and more. The holes they create can allow secondary pests inside and sometimes rainwater.
- When rodents invade attic spaces, they can damage stored furniture, chew holes in boxes, rip insulation, and cause other damage.
- When rodents explore unfinished spaces or wall voids, they are prone to chew on wires. If a live wire is severed, it can lead to a house fire, which can present a significant threat to your property and the safety of everyone living in your home. Because of this, one little mouse can present a big threat.
- Rodents that get into pantries, food storage rooms, and kitchens will chew holes in food packaging.
Along with chewing on building materials, stored items, wiring, and food packages, rodents cause damage in another way. They leave their waste as the move about inside your home. The feces and urine of rats can contaminate stored goods, foods, and sensitive areas.
As rodents explore your home, they can drop ticks and fleas. Infected ticks and fleas can present a health risk.
How To Remove Factors That Attract Rodents To Your Home
It is best to let rodents know that they are not welcome in your home. There are a few ways you can put out the "unwelcome" mat.
- Remove objects in your yard to make it more difficult for rats and mice to navigate.
- Store garbage in a covered container and keep your containers free of strong odors.
- Pick up nuts and fruit that fall to the ground.
- Remove bird feeders or hang them on trees away from your exterior walls.
- Seal gaps, cracks, and holes rodents can use to get inside.
- Trim tree branches that hang near your roofline or over your roof.
- Put wire mesh in your downspouts to stop little mice from working their way up to your roof.
It takes work to deter rats, mice, and squirrels, but your hard work will not only deter rodents, but it will also deter many other pests. It is well worth your effort.
Call The Pros For Total Rodent Control For Your Home
If rodents are already in your home, or you have lots of activity in your yard, keep B&T Pest Control in mind. We provide effective home pest control and rodent control services. We can guide you toward a long-term solution to help you maintain a rodent-free home. Call or drop us a line if you live in Jacksonville or the surrounding area. We're here to help.
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