Winter Pest Control

by | Dec 12, 2023 | Pest Control | 0 comments

mice pest control edmonton

The types of pests that can be particularly problematic during the winter can vary depending on your location and climate. However, some common winter pests that often require pest control measures include:

  1. Rodents (Mice and Rats): Rodents are known for seeking shelter indoors during the winter to escape the cold. They can cause structural damage, contaminate food, and transmit diseases.
  2. Cockroaches: While cockroaches are generally associated with warmer climates, some species can thrive indoors during the winter. They are resilient and can be challenging to control once established.
  3. Spiders: Some spider species are more active during the winter months, and they may enter homes seeking warmth.
  4. Bed Bugs: Bed bugs are a year-round problem, but they can be particularly challenging to control in the winter when people tend to spend more time indoors, providing these pests with more opportunities to feed.
  5. Ants: Certain ant species can remain active during the winter, and if they find a food source inside your home, they may become a nuisance.

In Edmonton and area, We Clean Pest Control finds that mice are the number one pest that is active and hard to control. Preventing mice from entering your home during the winter involves taking proactive measures to seal potential entry points and make your property less attractive to these rodents. Here are some tips to help prevent mice infestations:

1. Seal Entry Points:

  • Inspect the exterior of your home for any gaps or cracks in the foundation, walls, and around windows and doors. Use caulk or steel wool to seal these openings.
  • Check for gaps around utility penetrations, such as pipes and vents. Seal them with appropriate materials to prevent mice from squeezing through.

2. Install Door Sweeps:

  • Ensure that exterior doors have tight-fitting door sweeps to eliminate gaps at the bottom.

3. Screen Vents and Chimneys:

  • Install screens over vents and chimneys to prevent mice from entering through these openings.

4. Maintain a Tidy Yard:

  • Remove debris and clutter around your home, as mice may use these materials for nesting.
  • Keep grass and vegetation well-trimmed, as tall grass provides cover for rodents.

5. Store Food Properly:

  • Keep food stored in airtight containers to deny mice a potential food source.
  • Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

6. Secure Garbage Bins:

  • Use tightly sealed garbage bins to prevent mice from accessing food waste.

7. Inspect and Seal Foundation Vents:

  • Ensure that foundation vents are in good condition and cover them with mesh or hardware cloth to prevent mice from entering.

8. Use Mouse Traps:

  • Set up mouse traps in areas where mice are likely to enter, such as along walls or near entry points.

9. Consider Ultrasonic Repellents:

  • Some people use ultrasonic repellent devices, which emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for rodents. However, their effectiveness can vary.

10. Professional Inspection:

Remember that prevention is key, and taking these steps before winter sets in can help reduce the likelihood of mice entering your home during the colder months.

If you notice signs of a mouse problem in your home, and you have tried the prevention tips above, it’s advisable to take action promptly to prevent the issue from worsening. Here are some ongoing signs that indicate you may need to get pest control for a mouse problem:

  1. Droppings: Finding mouse droppings in and around your home is a clear sign of a mouse infestation. Droppings are typically small, dark, and rod-shaped.
  2. Gnaw Marks: Mice are known for their constant gnawing to wear down their incisor teeth. Look for gnaw marks on furniture, wiring, and other materials.
  3. Nesting Materials: Mice use various materials, such as paper, fabric, and insulation, to build nests. Discovering nests in hidden or sheltered areas is a sign of an active mouse population.
  4. Scratching Noises: Mice are often active at night, and you may hear scratching or rustling sounds in walls, ceilings, or other quiet areas of your home.
  5. Visible Mice: In some cases, you may actually see live mice in your home, especially during the evening or night when they are most active.
  6. Unusual Pet Behavior: If you have pets, they may exhibit unusual behavior, such as increased attention to certain areas or signs of agitation, which could indicate the presence of mice.
  7. Chewed Food Packages: Mice are notorious for getting into food storage areas. If you find chewed or damaged food packages, it may indicate a mouse problem.

If you observe any of these signs, it’s recommended to take action promptly. Mice reproduce quickly, and a small problem can escalate rapidly if not addressed. Here’s when you should consider getting pest control for a mouse problem:

  1. Early Detection: The earlier you address a mouse issue, the easier it is to control. Don’t wait until the problem becomes severe.
  2. Persistent Signs: If you’ve tried DIY methods to control mice but the signs persist, it’s time to bring in professional pest control.
  3. Health Concerns: Mice can carry diseases and may contaminate food and surfaces. If you’re concerned about health risks, it’s essential to address the problem promptly.
  4. Professional Assessment: If you’re uncertain about the extent of the infestation or the best course of action, consider hiring a professional pest control service. They can conduct a thorough inspection and provide appropriate treatments.

Remember that prevention is also crucial. Regularly inspect your home for potential entry points and practice good sanitation habits to make your property less attractive to mice.

To address winter pest issues, it’s important to take preventative measures, such as sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and addressing moisture issues. If a pest infestation becomes severe, seeking professional pest control services may be necessary. Keep in mind that the specific pests you encounter can depend on your geographical location and local climate. We Clean Pest Control is a professional company, with discrete vehicles to as not alert your neighbors and keep your pest control problems to a minimum.