As temperatures drop and winter tightens its icy grip, there’s nothing more comforting than retreating to the warmth of your cozy home. But guess what? You’re not the only one with this idea! Mice and rats are also searching for a warm place to ride out the cold months, and without proper rodent control in Memphis, your home might be just what they’re looking for. Let’s dive into why these rodents love your house during the winter and what you can do to keep them out.

Why Do Mice and Rats Move Indoors?

1. They’re Cold Too!

Mice and rats, like humans, don’t enjoy freezing temperatures. During winter, they instinctively search for warmth, and your heated home feels like paradise. These tiny creatures can squeeze through cracks as small as a dime to get inside.

Foundation Tip: Regularly inspect and seal small cracks around your foundation, doors, and windows to keep rodents from sneaking in.

2. Food is Hard to Find Outdoors

In winter, nature’s pantry runs low, and finding food becomes a challenge. Your home offers an irresistible buffet—crumbs on the floor, an open bag of chips, or even pet food in a bowl can lure them inside.

Foundation Tip: Store all food in sealed containers and clean up spills immediately. A crumb to you is a feast for a mouse!

3. They Need Shelter to Survive

Mice and rats look for safe, undisturbed places to nest. Basements, attics, and walls make the perfect spots to raise their young. With insulation to keep them warm and darkness to stay hidden, your home becomes an ideal nursery.

Foundation Tip: Declutter storage areas and check for signs of nesting materials like shredded paper or fabric.

How Do They Get Inside?

Mice and rats are masters of infiltration. They can:

• Squeeze through openings as small as 1/4 inch.
• Climb vertical surfaces to reach vents or gaps in your siding.
• Gnaw through wood, plastic, and even drywall to create entry points.

Why Is This a Problem?

Rodents might be small, but the problems they bring are anything but:

• Health Risks: Mice and rats can carry diseases like Salmonella and Hantavirus.
• Property Damage: They chew through wires, increasing fire risks, and destroy insulation, causing costly repairs.
• Rapid Reproduction: A single pair of mice can produce dozens of offspring in just a few months, turning a minor issue into a major infestation.

How to Keep Them Out

1. Seal Entry Points: Look for cracks, gaps, and openings around your home’s exterior.
2. Eliminate Food Sources: Clean up crumbs, secure trash cans, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
3. Keep Things Tidy: Declutter storage areas and maintain a clean home to reduce hiding spots.
4. Call in the Experts: If you suspect an infestation, don’t wait. We are here to help.

Let Foundation Pest Control Protect Your Home

At Foundation Pest Control, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with unwanted guests—especially during the holidays! Our expert team is ready to inspect your home, identify problem areas, and create a customized plan to keep mice and rats out for good.

Don’t let rodents ruin your winter sanctuary. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s take back your home!

Stay warm and pest-free this season!
– Your Friends at Foundation Pest Control