As the chill of winter settles over Perth, rats and mice begin seeking shelter, warmth, and food — often right inside our homes. If you’ve noticed scurrying sounds in the ceiling or small droppings in your pantry, you’re not alone. Winter is peak season for unwanted rodent intrusions. That’s why rodent control Perth services are essential during the colder months. In this article, we’ll explain why rodent activity increases in winter, how to spot an infestation early, and what you can do to prevent or remove these pests from your home.
Why Rodents Love Winter Indoors
Rats and mice are highly adaptive and instinctively seek warmer environments once temperatures begin to drop. Our homes, garages, and sheds offer the perfect haven — food scraps, nesting materials, and plenty of hiding spots. Unlike seasonal pests, rodents remain active throughout winter, which means even a small issue can quickly escalate into a serious infestation if not addressed promptly.
Common Signs of a Rodent Problem
Early detection is key to effective rodent removal strategies in Perth. Here are some of the telltale signs:
● Droppings: Mouse droppings are small, black, and pointed at both ends, while rat droppings are larger and more blunt.
● Scratching noises: Rodents are most active at night and can be heard in roof spaces, walls, or under floorboards.
● Gnaw marks: Chewed food packaging, wires, skirting boards, or furniture may indicate their presence.
● Nesting material: Shredded paper, insulation, or fabric hidden away in quiet corners can signal a nest.
● Unusual pet behaviour: Cats or dogs may become fixated on specific areas where rodents are hiding.
If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, it’s time to take action.
Dangers of a Rodent Infestation
Beyond being an unwelcome nuisance, rodents can pose several serious risks:
● Health hazards: Rats and mice can carry diseases such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and hantavirus. Their droppings, urine, and hair contaminate surfaces and food.
● Structural damage: Rodents chew through timber, plasterboard, insulation, and even electrical wires, increasing the risk of fires.
● Reproduction rates: Rodents breed rapidly. A single pair of rats can produce hundreds of offspring within a year if not controlled.
This is why professional rat pest control is often necessary to break the infestation cycle.
Preventing Rats and Mice in Winter
The most effective form of rodent control is prevention. Here’s what homeowners in Perth can do:
1. Seal All Entry Points
Rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a 5-cent coin. Inspect your home for gaps around doors, vents, roof tiles, and plumbing. Use steel wool, metal mesh, or silicone sealant to block any holes.
2. Keep Food Secure
Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs and spills quickly. Don’t leave pet food out overnight. Rubbish bins should be sealed tightly, and compost piles kept well away from the home.
3. Declutter Inside and Out
Stacks of newspapers, cardboard boxes, or overgrown vegetation provide ideal nesting grounds. Keep yards trimmed, remove garden waste, and tidy up storage areas.
4. Set Traps or Bait Stations
As a proactive step, you can place traps or bait stations in known rodent hotspots. Be cautious around pets and children, and always follow safety instructions.
5. Maintain Good Hygiene
Vacuum and mop regularly, particularly in kitchens and dining areas. This not only removes crumbs but also eliminates scent trails that rodents use to navigate.
When to Call in the Professionals
DIY solutions can sometimes deal with a minor issue, but for established infestations, professional help is essential. Experienced pest technicians use targeted treatments that address not just the rodents, but also their nesting sites and access points — reducing the likelihood of re-entry.
Licensed professionals will:
● Conduct a thorough inspection of your property
● Identify entry points and risk factors
● Use safe, effective treatment methods
● Offer long-term solutions to prevent recurrence
Whether you’re dealing with a minor mouse problem or a full-blown rat invasion, professional rat control services can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Rodent Control for Commercial Premises
Businesses aren’t immune either — in fact, food service and hospitality venues are at even greater risk. Rodents in a commercial setting can damage reputation, lead to health inspection penalties, and compromise safety. Regular pest control inspections should be part of every business’s winter preparation plan.
Winter-Ready Pest Protection
Now is the perfect time to assess your property for potential rodent access points. Taking preventative steps early will go a long way in avoiding more serious problems down the track. Don’t wait until you see a mouse dart across your kitchen — act now and stay rodent-free all winter.
If you’re in need of professional rodent removal services, Rats Pest Control Perth can help. With years of experience and proven success handling rodent infestations across homes and businesses, our team is fully equipped to protect your property.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Winter doesn’t have to come with unwanted guests. A few proactive steps, combined with the help of an expert, can keep rats and mice outside where they belong. If you suspect rodents are moving into your space, early action is the best defence.
Call (08) 6275 6560 today to book a rodent inspection or speak to our pest control experts in Perth.