COVID-19 Pandemic and Rodent Behavior
The good news is mice and rats are very selective in their environments they call home. The unfortunate news is mice and rats are on the move from their traditional nesting sites and are looking for a new place to call home.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen not only an increase of rodent activity in residential neighborhoods, but as well as in commercial buildings, and an increase in daytime sightings of both rats and mice which is unusual for a traditionally nocturnal animal.
As their traditional food sources have dried up due to businesses shutting down, employees working from home and there being less foot traffic through parks and urban core areas we have seen an increased competition for food which has caused both rats and mice to venture into areas that were once known for low rodent activity.
Rats, I have Mice…
Rats and mice are both instinctive warm-blooded mammals on the search for food, shelter, and nesting materials during their late-night escapades. As they venture into homes and commercial spaces looking for food, they are also on the hunt for a new nesting-sight that is close to the new buffet they have just found. Even if they do not setup a nest within your structure, rats will travel up to 100 feet a night in search of food. Add a safe harbourage site and readily available food source and they will move right on in.
3 Contributing Factors to Rodents
Three consistent variables are needed to create an ideal rodent hotbed.
- Food
- Water
- Safe Harborage
When you eliminate one of these variables from the equation, you severely reduce your chances of developing an infestation and you will drastically reduce the amount of time it takes to eliminate an infestation if one does spring up.
Expert Rodent Control
Don’t go at it alone, hire a professional pest control company who specializes in rodent control. An improperly treated rodent infestation can spring out of control fast and can lead to potential expensive remediation services and structural repairs.
Integral Pest Services specializes in rapid knockdown services and preventative pest control services. We utilize the latest technology combined with industry leading best practices for unmatched pest control services. Contact us today for a free consultation.