Not all rodents in Tampa like to live inside homes. Most big rodents prefer to live out in the wild. However, some do occasionally frequent properties to search for food, moisture, and shelter. Today we will be talking about the small rodents that regularly invade homes in Tampa and discussing what problems they cause and how to deal with an active infestation.
The Types Of Rodents That Invade Properties In The Tampa Bay Area
Of all the kinds of rodents that live here in Tampa, the two you should be most worried about are mice and rats. A close problem-causer runner-up would be squirrels. There are a few reasons that mice and rats are the most invasive types of rodents here in Tampa. First, they are both relatively small and able to squeeze through small openings. The house mouse, the most common home-invading mouse in our area, can fit through gaps the width of a nickel. The second reason rodents are invasive is that they have sharp and durable teeth. The most common home-invading rat, the Norway rat, can gnaw through things like aluminum siding and soft concrete to get indoors. Finally, rodents are intelligent. Many studies have shown how clever these small pests are and how capable they are at finding unique ways to get what they want, like getting into area homes and avoiding danger and detection while doing so.
The Destruction & Health Risks Rodents Can Create On Your Property
There are two main problems that wild rodents cause when they invade Tampa homes. The first is that they get people sick, and the second is that they are destructive. Wild rodents get people sick by spreading diseases through their fecal droppings and urine. They also transport dangerous bugs like fleas and ticks into homes. These smaller pests are hosts to their own list of harmful bacteria, pathogens, and parasites and regularly infect people and animals with their bites. As for destruction, rodents are mainly destructive because they chew on everything. A rodent's front incisor teeth never stop growing and are strong enough to chew through materials like wood, plastic, and vinyl. When inside homes, rodents like mice and rats gnaw on furniture, chew holes through walls, severe electrical wires, gnaw on pipes, and do other serious damage using their teeth. They are also known to tear up insulation, fabrics, and paper in order to build their nests.
Naturally Effective Rodent Prevention Tips For Your Property
If you are looking for how to keep rodents out of your Tampa home, one option you have is to implement natural prevention tips. Here are a few great strategies our experts recommend you try today:
- Keep your living areas clean and tidy.
- Take out your trash regularly and keep bins clean.
- Address moisture issues.
- Repair damage and fill in holes, gaps, and cracks in your home's exterior.
- Trim your grass and landscaping regularly.
- Store all your leftover food and pantry items inside airtight containers.
The Secret To Total Rodent Control For Your Property
Although DIY helps to deter rodents, it is by no means a perfect solution for these pests. If you really want to make sure common rodents stay away from your Tampa home, your best option is to hire Haskell Termite & Pest Control. We offer detailed inspections, trapping, and pest prevention options to help members of our community like you find freedom from dangerous and destructive rodents.
Call today to learn more about our rodent control services at Haskell Termite & Pest Control and book a time to have your Tampa home treated for these furry pests.