While mice and rats are adept at staying hidden as they infest a home, there is one telltale sign that most individuals should recognize. These pests are not quiet house guests. Long before you notice the signs droppings or chew marks on wiring, you’ll likely hear one of the many unique noises they make.
If you hear sounds from within the walls, it’s a clue that something isn’t right. Call your local exterminator for a consultation. They’ll know how to find rodent nests right away, without destroying your home’s interior.
Listening for an Infestation
If you suspect you might have a rat or mice problem, there are several sounds that you should keep an ear out for. These noises include:
- Squeaking: Rats squeak at a high frequency that human ears cannot perceive. They also make sounds that are closer to chirps. Mice and rats predominantly communicate with each other by squeaking.
- Rustling: If you press an ear to a wall, you may be able to hear signs of scurrying as mice or rats move around your home. Remember that most pests are nocturnal, so seeing one during the day is a terrible sign. This could mean their nest is overcrowded. Try listening for them at nighttime, when all the other house noises are off.
- Chewing: Rats and mice are famous for their constant chewing. They chew materials from your home to build nests for their young. Unless there is a pack of rodents chewing on your wires, it’s hard to notice tiny bite marks. You’re likely to hear chewing before you see it.
- Scratching: Rodents come equipped with long nails that help them climb and dig. If you listen quietly, you may be able to hear the sounds of them scratching on walls or other surfaces.
When listening for the revelatory sounds of rodents in your home, it’s important to act quickly before they cause extensive, costly damage. Rodents could be hiding in your attic, basement, or crawlspace. Infestations can grow in the winter months as the small animals look for shelter in the cold weather, or tread into human kitchens looking for food. These pest families multiply, and that’s usually when most people notice the noise.
How to Get Rid of Rodents
If your home is prone to rodent infestations, check the perimeter and seal off any small holes then serve as entry points for rats and mice. Keep your trees and shrubs trimmed and your outdoor area clean as well. A rodent’s natural habitat is outside, in tall grass and bushes. Also, don’t leave water out, as small creatures are always attracted to fresh liquid and will set up a home wherever there is a water source.
By using your ears as much as your eyes, you’ll be able to spot the signs of a rodent infestation early on. Rodents, along with other pests, can create extensive and costly damage. If you do see a small pest, call an exterminator service right away. Not only are they incredibly challenging to get rid of without professional-grade poisons, but they also carry diseases that are dangerous to children and adults.
New York City Pest Control Experts
Your local exterminator will help you get rid of vermin with no mess and no fuss, so you can go back to feeling safe in your own house. With over 15 years of experience assisting those in the New York Metro, we are driven to helping New Yorkers reclaim their home from intrusive pests.
As members of the New York Pest Management Association, we are fully aware of the health concerns related to pest extermination and can help ensure the safety of you and your loved ones during and after treatment. Contact (347) 305-8524 anytime to speak with a pest control professional who can provide you with a free quote.