When you think of rodents, you probably think of them as strictly a winter problem. While fall and winter are peak months for rodent infestations, here in Florida, summer is a highly active season for rodents, as well. Still, when homeowners spot signs of rodents in their homes during the hotter months, it catches them completely off guard.
Simply put, the combination of intense heat, high humidity and abundant food sources creates the ideal conditions for these pests to thrive and multiply. Here’s everything you need to know about summer rodent infestations in Florida:
Why are Rodents a Problem in Summer?
Florida’s sweltering summer temperatures do the same thing to rodents that they do to us: drive them indoors in search of somewhere cool and comfortable. When outdoor conditions become too harsh, either due to the heat or rainy conditions, rodents make their way inside in search of shelter, food and water. While peak breeding season is in spring and fall, Florida’s consistently warm climate keeps them breeding year-round. Food sources are also abundant during the summertime, making these critters even more active in their scavenging.
What are Some Common Rodent Infestations in Florida?
Florida homeowners are most likely to deal with either roof rats, Norway rats or house mice. Roof rats are probably the most common of the three and love to nest high up in attics, trees and along rooflines, as their name suggests. Norway rats, or brown rats, prefer to stay low, nesting in underground burrows, near foundations or in crawl spaces. House mice, while much smaller, are incredibly resourceful and can squeeze through dime-sized holes, making many homes vulnerable.
Are Rodents Harmful?
Short answer: Yes, rodents are harmful. First and foremost, they pose health risks to humans and pets, as they carry diseases and contaminate food and surfaces. Accidentally ingesting contaminated food, inhaling airborne pathogens from droppings and urine, or coming into direct contact with rodents can all have serious health consequences.
Rodents are also extremely destructive creatures. Both rats and mice have front teeth that never stop growing, which means they have to consistently gnaw to keep them filed down. This causes expensive problems for homeowners when rodents chew on wood framing, insulation, electrical wiring and even plumbing. This habit can also be dangerous, as their gnawing on electrical wiring has been known to start fires.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Rodent Infestations in Summer?
No matter the time of year, the same preventative measures can be put in place to protect your home from rats and mice. Along with having professional rodent control, here are some steps you can take to prevent an infestation:
- Seal entry points, like small holes and gaps around your home’s exterior.
- Maintain your yard, keeping it free of debris and standing water.
- Store firewood off the ground and away from your home.
- Store food in airtight containers and properly secure trash.
- Reduce clutter around your home where rodents can hide.
What are the Signs of a Rodent Problem?
While every rodent species has its own unique set of behaviors, the signs of an infestation are largely the same. It’s worth noting that rodents rarely travel alone. Where there’s one rodent, there are probably more lurking nearby. The sooner you act, the sooner you can get the infestation under control before it spirals into a bigger problem. If you spot any of these signs of an infestation, you should call a professional rodent control team for help:
- Droppings
- Gnaw marks on food packaging or structural components
- Grease marks along walls and baseboards
- Scratching or scurrying sounds
- Nest material, such as chewed insulation, paper, fabric or wiring
If these persistent pests are threatening to ruin your summer plans, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Fort Lauderdale rodent control pros at AAA Pest Control for expert removal and exclusion services! We’ll conduct a thorough inspection to identify the extent of the infestation and determine the best course of action. We also offer same-day emergency service for urgent rodent problems. Learn more about our Fort Lauderdale rodent control services or contact us online for a free inspection.