Rodent Identification
At Termite Tracker, our rodent control treatments are precisely tailored to the specifics of your property, taking into account its location and the type of rodent infestation. In Brisbane, the most common rodent species we encounter are the Roof Rat, Norway Rat, and House Mouse.
Signs of a Rodent Infestation
To help identify a potential rodent problem in your home or business, look out for these common indicators:
- Rub Marks: Grease or rub marks along walls and corners are signs of frequent rodent activity as they travel the same paths.
- Droppings: Fresh rat droppings appear shiny and soft, while older droppings are dull and hard. Rat droppings are about 12mm long with blunted ends, whereas mouse droppings range from 3-6mm with pointed ends. Be sure to distinguish these from gecko droppings, which often have a white tip.
- Burrows: Rodents often create burrows near water sources like creeks, as well as around buildings or beneath houses.
- Nests: Rodents typically build nests from readily available materials such as paper, cardboard, twigs, and fabric scraps.
- Noises: Listen for squeaking, scurrying, or gnawing sounds in walls or hidden voids, particularly at night when rodents are most active.
- Gnaw Marks: Rats have a habit of chewing on materials like wood, metal, conduit, and cables to keep their teeth from overgrowing.
If you suspect a rodent infestation, it's important to thoroughly inspect your property for potential entry points. Once Termite Tracker has installed bait stations, be sure to seal any gaps or openings with durable materials like chicken wire to prevent re-entry and keep your space rodent-free.
Tips to Prevent Rodent Infestations Around Your Home or Workplace
To keep rodents at bay, it's essential to take preventive measures both outside your home or workplace. Here are some practical tips to reduce the risk of an infestation:
Outdoor Maintenance
- Clean Your Gutters: Regularly inspect and clean your gutters and downpipes, removing any leaves, sticks, or debris. In areas known for rodent activity, consider installing a gutter guard or plastic mesh to keep your gutters clear and prevent rodents from nesting.
- Trim Tree Branches: Ensure that tree branches do not overhang near your home or building. Rodents can easily jump from branches to rooftops, providing them easy access to your property.
- Control Weeds: Remove weeds as soon as they appear. Rodents can use overgrown weeds to camouflage their burrows or even start new colonies underground.
- Maintain Your Lawn: Regularly mow your lawn to keep the grass short. Tall grass offers hiding spots for rodents, so keeping it trimmed will make your property less attractive to them.
- Manage Compost Bins: Keep your compost bin securely covered to prevent rodents from accessing it. Avoid adding sticks, branches, or weeds to the compost, as rodents can use these materials to build their nests.
- Secure Downpipes: Rodents can easily climb up and down downpipes. Install cage wire at the bottom of your downpipes to block their entry. Secure the wire with rivets to keep it firmly in place. Also, check and seal any gaps around your air conditioning pipes to prevent entry points.
Additional Precautions
- Fix Leaky Taps: Repair any leaks around your home or workplace as soon as possible. Standing water can attract rodents, so promptly fix any dripping taps or faulty washers.
- Pet Food and Water: Keep your pet’s food and water indoors where rodents cannot access it. Leaving pet supplies outside can attract rodents looking for an easy meal.
By following these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of a rodent infestation and help keep your home or workplace rodent-free. If you need a rodent treatment, give Termite Tracker a call.