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December 20, 2024
Maine’s winter weather is an open invitation for rodents to cozy up inside our homes. If you’ve noticed strange noises, chewed wires, or mysterious droppings, it’s time to investigate. Let’s walk through some common signs of a rodent problem and how you can address it before these uninvited guests overstay their welcome.
Signs of rodent activity
Are you wondering if mice or rats have taken up residence in your home? Here are six signs to look out for that indicate you may have a rodent problem:
- Noises in the night
Do you hear scurrying, scratching, or squeaking, especially at night? Rodents are nocturnal, so they’re most active when your house is quiet. Listen carefully in the attic, walls, or basement— old homes, in particular, are full of cozy hiding spots for these critters. - Droppings and urine trails
One of the most apparent signs of a rodent issue is the presence of droppings. Mouse droppings look like tiny black grains of rice, while rat droppings are larger and more oblong. You might also notice urine trails. Pay attention to rodent hotspots like corners, cupboards, behind appliances, areas near food storage, basements, attics, and garages. - Gnaw marks
Rodents chew constantly to keep their teeth sharp. Look for gnaw marks on food packaging, wooden furniture, electrical wires, or baseboards. If you spot fresh damage, it’s a clear sign you’re dealing with an active infestation. - Rub marks
Dusty areas in your home, like basements or attics, might reveal tiny footprints or tail marks. To confirm rodent activity, sprinkle a light layer of flour or powder. Additionally, rodents often leave greasy smudges along walls or baseboards where they travel frequently. - Nests and burrows
Rodents love building nests out of soft materials like shredded paper, fabric, or attic insulation. Check storage areas, the attic, or behind appliances for these makeshift homes. If you see burrows outside near your foundation, it could indicate rats seeking shelter indoors. - Unusual pet behavior
Are your cats or dogs suddenly obsessed with one spot in the house? Pets have a keen sense of smell and hearing and might detect rodents long before you do. Pay attention to where they’re staring, sniffing, pawing, or barking.
Why rodents are attracted to Maine homes
Maine’s cold winters drive rodents indoors for warmth, food, and shelter. Older or poorly constructed homes with gaps, cracks, or unsealed entry points make it easy for them to sneak in. Basements, garages, and attics provide ideal hideaways, especially when stocked with stored goods or clutter.
How to keep rodents out of your home
- Seal entry points
- Inspect your home for gaps or cracks, especially around pipes, vents, and the foundation. Use steel wool or caulk to block potential entryways.
- Store food properly
- Keep all food—including pet food—in airtight containers. Also, remember birdseed and pantry staples such as flour and sugar.
- Declutter your space
- Reduce clutter in storage areas to eliminate potential nesting spots.
- Clean regularly
- Vacuum crumbs, wipe down counters, and take out the trash frequently to remove food sources.
- Maintain your yard
- Trim overgrown vegetation and remove debris near your home’s foundation to deter outdoor nesting.
Reach out to Pine State for effective rodent control
If you’ve spotted signs of rodent activity or you want to prevent these destructive pests from entering your home, call Pine State Pest Solutions. Our rodent control services, available in Auburn, Yarmouth, and throughout our multi-county service area, include:
- A thorough inspection to identify the species and potential entryways.
- A customized plan to eliminate the current rodent population.
- Implementation of preventive measures to keep rodents out for good.
For greater protection against rodents AND other house-infesting pests, we highly recommend signing up for one of our home pest control plans. Compare plans and pricing below.
*initial start-up fees may apply.
Contact Pine State Pest Solutions today!
Dealing with rodents can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Our Maine pest control company will ensure your home stays rodent-free year-round. Schedule an inspection today!
This blog was originally published on October 15, 2020, and has been updated to reflect the most up-to-date information.
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