When Should Rodent Exclusion Start?
Is there a right time of year for rodent exclusion? There’s some debate. Some say the best time of year for rodent exclusion is in late summer or early fall. This is because rodents tend to come indoors when temperatures get cold, so it’s best to get exclusion done right before that happens.
While there’s some wisdom to this, it’s important to note that rodents can wreak havoc on your home and health any time of year, and once they establish themselves in your home it gets much harder to eliminate them. That’s why we tell people there’s no wrong time of year for rodent exclusion. If you notice cracks in your walls or foundation, or you can’t remember the last time you had rodent exclusion, the best time to start is right now.
When is Rodent Season?
In Suffolk County and Nassau County where Suburban Exterminating is based, rodent populations rise throughout the spring and summer and peak in late summer. In September, the temperatures will start to drop. Rodents know that if they don’t find warm shelter they will die, so they instinctively begin seeking out somewhere to spend the cold season.
So even though rodent populations are highest in the summer, this is probably not when you’ll see most of them. You’ll likely see peak indoor rodent activity between September and November.
Rodent Exclusion Schedule
Although rodents are most active during autumn, we strongly advise inspecting and fortifying your property throughout the year. Ideally, you should walk around, inspect your property, and if you notice cracks and gaps, make repairs at least every three months. Conducting thorough checks toward the end of each season helps detect potential issues early and lowers the risk of infestations.
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Do Rodents Die in the Winter?
The weather gets cold in the winter and food and water become scarce. Conditions are hostile to rodent survival. Some will die off. But rodents are resourceful creatures – many will survive.
Contrary to common belief, rodents don’t die off or vanish during winter. You’re often more likely to stumble upon them indoors – seeking refuge in your pantry, your basement, or your attic – when it is cold. Since most rats and mice don’t hibernate, they become more desperate for food and shelter.
And if rodents do come inside in the winter, they’re likely to remain there once it warms up again in the spring. Once they’ve found reliable food, water, and shelter, it’s tough to get them to leave.
