Cleaning Hygiene Today Cleaning Hygiene Magazine
The latest data from Rentokil Pest Control reveals a sharp rise in reported rodent activity across the UK, with rat activity increasing by 31 per cent and mouse activity by 32 per cent from Q3 to Q4 2024.
The increase in activity is likely to predominantly be due to the usual seasonal behaviour of rats during the colder months when they typically move indoors or closer to buildings in search of food, warmth, and shelter.
However, these figures from Rentokil in the UK come on the back of several recent reports about rats being on the rise across the world. This is a concerning trend for homeowners and businesses as these pests are not only a nuisance but can also cause significant damage to property and pose health risks.
Here, Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, shares his expert advice on how to keep these unwanted visitors at bay.
Identification: Rats and mice are often confused due to their similar appearance, but how they gain entry to buildings differs, meaning it’s important to identify which rodent you’re dealing with to determine the most effective way to tackle the problem.
House mice are smaller and have slender bodies with long, hair-covered tails relative to their body size. They have an extraordinary ability to squeeze through small openings. Thanks to their flexible rib cages, they can fit through small gaps the width of a pencil. This makes it especially important to inspect your property for any potential entry points, even those that may seem too small to matter.
Rats, on the other hand, are generally larger with thick, hairless tails and rely on well-established routes, typically along skirting boards and walls, due to their poor eyesight. If you notice greasy marks or smudges on walls, it could be a sign that rats are frequently passing through the area. These marks result from the natural oils on their fur, leaving behind a trace as they move.
While the sight of rats or mice can be distressing, there are several preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of an infestation:
-
Seal Gaps and Cracks: One of the most effective ways to keep rodents out is by sealing any gaps or cracks in your home. Mice, in particular, can squeeze through even the smallest openings, so it’s crucial to inspect areas around windows, doors, and pipes for any potential entry points.
-
Trim Vegetation: Rodents love to hide in overgrown vegetation, so it’s important to maintain your garden and trim back any bushes or plants close to your property that could be providing shelter or easy access to your home.
-
Install Door Strips: In older properties where doors may not fit snugly, installing bristle or brush strips at the bottom of doors can help prevent rodents from entering through small gaps.
-
Store Food Securely: Rodents are attracted to easily accessible food sources, so store all food in airtight metal or glass containers. This will not only keep your food safe but will also make your property less appealing to rodents.
-
Declutter: Both inside and outside homes, reducing clutter minimises the number of places where rodents can hide. A tidy home and garden make it much easier to spot signs of an infestation early.
-
Secure Waste and Pet Food: Make sure to store outdoor rubbish in metal bins with securely fitting lids. Clean up any pet food or bird seed debris and store pet food in robust, sealed containers – preferably kept off the ground.
-
Compost With Caution: If you have a compost heap, avoid adding food scraps, particularly organic food waste, as this can attract rodents looking for an easy food source.
If you’re facing persistent issues with rats or mice, it’s important to consult a professional pest control service. While preventive measures, such as regular home inspections and maintenance, can go a long way, an experienced technician will be able to assess the situation and implement targeted solutions to eliminate the infestation, saving you time, money, and stress in the long run.
