Rodents are skilled at hiding, and often, homeowners are unaware of their presence until the problem has escalated. Recognizing the signs of a rodent infestation early can help you take swift action to protect your home from further damage and health risks. Keep reading for tips on how to determine if you have a rodent problem in your Canton, GA home.
Common Signs of a Rodent Problem
Here are some of the telltale signs that you might have a rodent problem in your home:
- Droppings: Rodent droppings are small, dark pellets found near food sources, in hidden corners, or along baseboards. Fresh droppings are dark and moist, while older ones are gray and dry. Mice droppings are smaller (about the size of a grain of rice), while rat droppings are larger.
- Gnaw Marks: Rodents are notorious for chewing on almost anything, including wood, food packaging, and even plastic and wires. If you notice small chew marks on furniture, baseboards, or household items, this could be a sign of rodent activity. Additionally, gnawed wires are especially concerning, as they can create fire hazards.
- Strange Noises: Rodents are most active at night, so you might hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds in your walls, attic, or under the floorboards during the evening. These noises are especially common in quiet areas of your home, such as basements and attics.
- Unusual Smells: A strong, musky odor often indicates the presence of rodents. This smell comes from the rodents themselves, as well as their droppings and urine. If the smell is concentrated in specific areas, such as cabinets, attics, or basements, it’s worth investigating further.
- Nests and Nesting Materials: Mice and rats use materials like shredded paper, fabric, and insulation to create nests. These nests are typically hidden in dark, secluded areas like behind appliances, in basements, or in attics. If you find small piles of shredded material, it’s likely that rodents are using it to create a nesting area.
- Grease Marks and Tracks: Rodents tend to follow the same paths along walls and floors, and they leave behind grease marks from their fur as they travel. You might also notice small footprints or tail marks in dusty areas. If you suspect a rodent problem, sprinkle a bit of flour along suspected pathways and check for tracks the next day.
- Burrows and Holes: Rats are known to dig burrows outside, especially near foundations, patios, or gardens. If you notice small holes or burrows around your home’s exterior, this may indicate a rat problem. Inside, mice and rats can chew holes through walls, cabinets, or floorboards to create pathways to food sources.
When to Call a Professional for Help
While DIY steps can help reduce rodent activity, a full-blown infestation requires professional intervention to ensure complete removal. Here’s when you should consider calling Kellco Termite and Pest Control:
- Widespread Signs of Activity: If you’re finding droppings, nests, or chew marks in multiple areas of your home, it’s likely that you’re dealing with more than just one or two rodents.
- Recurring Issues: If you’ve tried DIY solutions but still notice signs of rodents, professional help can provide more effective, long-term results.
- Health Concerns: Rodent infestations pose health risks, and professionals can handle the problem safely, using methods that minimize exposure to bacteria and contaminants.
If you’re noticing signs of a rodent problem in your Canton, GA home, don’t wait to take action. By recognizing these early indicators and working with a professional service like Kellco Termite and Pest Control, you can protect your home from damage and health risks. Contact Kellco today to schedule an inspection and keep your home rodent-free.