Rodents: The Worst Backseat Drivers

deer mouse nest in a car engine

It gets cold here in Wisconsin during the winter. We may be able to bundle up with scarves and heavy jackets, but the animals like rats and mice cannot. Because of that, they’re left to do whatever they can to stay warm. So, by leaving your car out on the street or in the vicinity of unsecured food, it turns into the perfect cozy spot for them to nest and feed. And you don’t want to play chauffeur for a colony of rodents. Not only would doing so be unpleasant, but it also puts you and your passengers in danger. Batzner Pest Control knows a lot about rodents, and we’ve been handling rat and mouse infestations since 1946. With our help, we can keep them out of your house and away from your vehicle. But before you call for our services, you should know a few things. Let’s talk about the warning signs of rats in your car, the risks that come from their presence, and what we can do to make your life easier and more comfortable.

Signs of Rodents in the Car

At their core, rodents are concerned with three things: eating, nesting, and defecating.

 Rats and mice both have incisors that are constantly growing from birth to death. So, to prevent discomfort, they have to constantly be chewing on pretty much anything to grind them down. This could result in them eating through the crucial wires and hoses in the structure of your car. It may also be beneficial to check your insulation and upholstery, as these are two materials most commonly torn into for nests. Rodent nests in the car are usually located around heat sources, such as the heat ducts, engine compartments, or under the center console. And if you find any droppings (ranging from the size of a speck of coffee to a grain of rice), this is also a major indicator of rats or mice in your car. Regardless of what it is, if you suspect rodents in your vehicle, don’t wait to act. With the amount of time we spend in our cars steadily increasing, it’s more important than ever to make sure the vehicle we operate is running safely.

Risks of Rodents

Do you have to treat rodents in the car? With so much going on, it’s all too easy to turn a blind eye to these furry hitchhikers. This plan of action may only compound your problems. If there are rats or mice in the structure of your car, it’s only a matter of time before they bite through something valuable or mechanically important. Maybe you see that the plastic paneling on the dashboard is chewed up. That might not be too big of a deal in your eyes. But for every visible sign of damage, there could be something else you might be missing. And the last thing you want is to realize your power steering line has been severed when you need it most.

We all know that mouse poop is just gross. What you might not know is that it’s also a carrier of potentially fatal illnesses like hantavirus and salmonellosis. So if you leave them in your car, you’re circulating pathogen particles in the air. A professional can safely sanitize your car. The right team will know how to remove existing rodents and deter more from taking their place. And if you’re looking for the best and most comprehensive rodent pest control in Wisconsin, Batzner Pest Control is here.

Batzner for Rodent Pest Control

If rats or mice get in your car, you run the risk of them migrating into your house. If that happens, the Batzner team is well-equipped. We can implement exclusionary efforts to make it so your home is far less appealing to rats and mice. We know how stressful it can be to deal with rodents on your own – so you shouldn’t have to. Instead, trust the team with more than 75 years of experience eliminating rodents in Wisconsin. With our help, you can enjoy the thrills and convenience of the open road in your car without any rodent passengers. Want to know more? Contact us today to get started!

Fall Pests to Watch Out For

a swarm of stink bugs coming out of a wall

As the weather cools you may notice more and more unwelcome creatures hanging around your home. That’s not just your imagination! It’s something called “overwintering”, which is what all insects and animals do to survive the colder weather. This might mean migrating to warmer climates or burrowing under debris to stay warm. Or it might lead pests to use your home to make it through the winter. They’ll find a quiet corner to settle in and then burst into activity in the spring. Good for them – not so much for you and your property.

These pests could be tiny bugs or larger rodents. You may find them, or you may not.  The latter is a major problem, as the most destructive infestations are the ones you don’t see until it’s too late. This could include Asian Lady beetles, stink bugs and termites, just to name a few. Read on to learn more about some common pests that may invade your home this fall.


Asian Lady Beetles

Asian lady beetles look similar to ladybugs, the garden darling that children love to linger over. The Asian lady, however, is bigger and may or may not have spots. More than that, finding one of them in your home is anything but a sign of good luck. These innocent-seeming mimics hang together in large groups and are able to use pheromones to communicate their location to the pack. That means that if one gets in, you can very easily wind up with an infestation in little to no time.

They tend to populate empty spaces like your attic or inside the walls. And while Asian Lady beetles aren’t known for bites or stings, their waste can potentially cause stains and irritation to anyone with respiratory illnesses. So for their sake, and since no one wants to live in a home full of bugs, it’s best to seek professional help through Batzner Pest Control. We can seal up the potential entry points in a way that’ll keep your home safe from Asian Lady beetles, as well as most other invaders.

Rodents

You probably know that squirrels are excellent climbers, but did you know that roof rats and mice can climb nearly just as well? Most rodents will climb almost anything; and things like branches, fences and drainpipes can all be used to access the roof of your residence.  If you aren’t prepared, that can be all you need for a furry creature to take up residence in the core of your home! Luckily, unlike other pests, if you have a rat or squirrel inside your walls, you’ll hear it. It’ll sound like scratching or gnawing noises, and both are signs that it’s time to call an experienced rodent exterminator like the specialists at Batzner Pest Control. As kind as you may be, we do not suggest trying to remove any rodent on your own. Our team is trained in wildlife exclusion and can return this wayward traveler back to the Great Outdoors safely.


Stink Bugs

The brown marmorated stink bug is the variety most commonly found around the house. They’re an invasive, non-native species that originated in Asia. Brown marmorated stink bugs are flat, brown and gray colored, and range in size from ¼” to ⅜”. Once they get into your house they crowd in quiet spots where they won’t be disturbed, nesting in your attic or crawlspace to stay warm. And if something happens and they do feel threatened, they’ll release a smell that’ll tell you very quickly why they have the name that they do.

 

Wasps

Wasp colonies don’t overwinter as a whole, so as the weather cools the hive gradually dies off until it’s just the queen. She, already fertilized, will hide out the cold season in a hollow log, stump, or under leaves. However, if none of that is readily available, she may choose instead to take up residence in the attic or siding of your home. Then, when spring hits, this lonely wasp will populate and craft a whole new colony right above your head. This is commonly seen in homes without attic vents or other vital seals. If you don’t want to play landlord for some very unpleasant tenants, it’s best to call Batzner for a wasp removal technique that is eco-friendly with your needs in mind!


Trusted Exterminators in Wisconsin

Batzner Pest Control has been providing Wisconsin with first-class pest control services since 1946. We know you have your choice of pest control companies, but we’re confident that we have a level of care and service that can’t be beaten. If you think you have any of the above pests in your home, Batzner Pest Control can help get them out and keep them out. Even if you don’t have an infestation you can count on us to take preventative action to keep your household free of insects and rodents year-round. Call us for a free quote!

Look Out For Rodents in Wisconsin this Winter

Mouse in Wisconsin home in the Winter - Batzner Pest Control

Wisconsin’s winters render it nearly impossible for many types of pests to live outdoors as they normally do. While many pests disappear this time of year, there is one in particular that can actually increase in activity: rodents! In partnership with PestWorld, the NPMA recently released their 2021 Fall & Winter Bug Barometer® predicting a significant increase in rodent activity this time of year due to the cold temperatures and below-average precipitation.

With our coldest months still ahead of us, now is the time to learn everything you can about winter pest pressures and what you can do to prevent an increased risk of a rodent infestation. The experts at Batzner Pest Control are here to help—read on to learn more!

Wisconsin Winter Pest Problems

Although many types of pests go away in the fall and winter in our region, there are a few that stick around. In fact, the NPMA reported an increase in prolonged stinging insect activity in our region due to the warm summer. However, with a bitterly cold winter predicted, the most concerning pest prediction is the expected increase in rodent activity. More than any other pest, rats and mice are known for heading indoors this time of year to wait out the cold months ahead. No one wants to share their home with rats and mice over the holiday season, making it important to implement winter pest control before they get indoors.

NPMA Bug Barometer 2021

Where Do Rats Live Inside in the Winter?

To get inside, rats and mice can squeeze their bodies through the tiniest of cracks and crevices. After they’ve made their way inside, rodents can cause a lot of damage. Rats and mice use all types of materials to build nests, chew on everything nonstop (electrical wires included), and can create a health hazard with their droppings. Rodents will choose to live in the following areas of your home during the winter:

  • Rats: Norway rats are known to burrow beneath the very foundation of your home, and are thus found in basements, crawl spaces, and more. Roof rats, however, prefer to live in higher areas of a property, including inside of wall voids or inside attics and chimneys.
  • Mice: House & deer mice alike will seek out dark, undisturbed places in the home to nest. With their small size, they can nest in rooms, inside of furniture, and even behind warm appliances in your kitchen or laundry room.

Winter Rodent Exclusion Services

Especially with NPMA’s prediction of increased rodent activity this year, now is the time to implement rodent exclusion services to keep rats and mice outside. The rodent exterminators at Batzner Pest Control will work with you to prevent rodent infestations this winter and year-round. Contact us today to get started!

How to Rodent-Proof Your Home

Mice living in someone's home in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

Wild animals in Wisconsin can sense when summer comes to an end. To prepare for the harsh, cold winter ahead, all kinds of wildlife look for reliable winter-long shelters. Unfortunately for us, this means that rodent problems are inevitable. Because mice and rats can be so sneaky and adaptable, it can be hard to tell if you’re in the middle of an infestation, let alone where they are nesting. To learn more about rodent infestations and how you can prevent them, read on for the expert advice of our rodent exterminators at Batzner Pest Control!

Why Do Rodent Infestations Happen in Fall?

Just like everyone else in Wisconsin, rodents have to take precautions in the warmer parts of the year to prepare for the freezing winter to come. It’s usually quick work for rodents to find everything they need in our homes. These are the three things they need to survive:

  1. Warmth: Mice and rats do not hibernate, so they need to find a reliable source of warmth to help them through the winter.
  2. Shelter: Some rodents, especially mice, are essential to their ecosystems as prey. They need a good hiding place for the winter and can often find it in our walls.
  3. Food: Although rodents can go for longer than you would expect without food, they are always on the hunt for a meal, preferably one loaded with carbohydrates.

How to Keep Rodents Out

Rodents can be one of the most difficult pests to control by yourself, but their inconspicuousness makes them much more difficult to remove from your home than to keep out in the first place. Here are some prevention strategies you can take at home to avoid a mice or rat infestation this fall:

  • Block off any easy access points—this could mean fixing screens on windows and vents, applying weather stripping on doors, and filling cracks in your plumbing fixtures and roofing.
  • Clean dishes and spills right away and store your food properly, sealed in airtight containers.
  • Keep your grass cut short, clear out your yard waste often, and refrain from using mulch near the foundation of your home.

Get Ahead of Rodent Control in Wisconsin

There’s no better time than the fall for rats, mice, and more to figure out where they will be staying through the winter. This also means that there’s no better time for us to start working on preventing infestations. If you need help making your home completely rodent-proof this fall, reach out to your local rodent control experts. Our technicians at Batzner Pest Control have been helping Wisconsin homeowners protect their properties since 1946. Contact us today for a free quote!

Identification and Prevention of Rats and Mice in Wisconsin

Mice vs. rats in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

House mice and Norway rats: as two of the most common rodents in Wisconsin, homeowners have had many encounters with these pests in the past. It can be hard to tell the difference between certain rodents, making it important to know how to identify them. To better prepare yourself for a rodent problem, the experts at Batzner are here to help you identify common rodents through their characteristics and behaviors. Read on to learn more!

Mice vs. Rats

1. Mice Characteristics

The common house mouse is known to be a light and fluffy brown creature with a tint of gray. From the tip of the pointy nose to the end of its tail measures anywhere from 2 ¾ – 4 inches long. It would be smart to securely store sweet fruits, grains, and seeds because these home-found pests are very attracted to them!

2. Rat Characteristics

The common Norway rat can also found nesting in Wisconsin homes. This rodent is slightly different from the house mouse appearance. The bright white chest contrasts from the dull gray body, which ranges from a large 7- 10 inches. This is approximately 40% larger than a mice’s tail. The curved nose is the main feature that distinguishes the rat from the mouse. The Norway rat does not eat anything that they are not familiar with, so it is uncommon that rats will take over your cabinets! However, they are attracted to sweet and fruity items.

Name House Mouse Norway Rat
Appearance House mouse in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control Norway rat in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control
Color/Length (without tail) Gray to light brown; light brown chest; 2 3/4 to 4 inches Coarse brown with black fur; gray or white chest; 7 to 10 inches
Nose, Ears, and Eyes Pointy nose; small ears and eyes; color blind Blunt nose; small ears and eyes; color blind
Tail Same length as body; nearly hairless with rounded scales Shorter than body; hairless with rounded scales
Droppings 1/4 inch long; rod-like with pointed ends 3/4 inch long; rounded ends

Signs of Norway Rats & House Mice

When there are signs of a rodent infestation, a natural reaction is to panic. Some common critical signs that rats and mice share are:

  1. Scratching in Walls
  2. Markings on Walls
    • Different from mice, other signs of a rat infestation are grease marks, called sebum, on walls throughout the home and tracks that may be left behind, measuring larger than ½ inch.
  3. Rodent Droppings
    • Droppings that are left behind can help identify rodents. Mice tend to leave behind droppings that are approximately ¼ of an inch with pinched ends that appear to be pointed. On the other hand, the droppings grimy rats leave behind are relatively larger than mice droppings and have blunt and rounded ends.

How to Prevent Rodents in Wisconsin Homes

Residents of urban, suburban, and rural areas are often unaware of just how much food and shelter their homes can provide to rodents. Spilled crumbs and grainy food inside of your house can easily feed rats and mice. As a homeowner, it is important to take action and prevent these pests from moving into your home because these rodents may carry spreadable diseases. For help preventing rodents in your home for good, contact the rodent control experts at Batzner today!

Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

Batzner pest control in Wisconsin - Serving New Berlin, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Madison, Racine and surrounding areas

Entomologists from Batzner’s parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

Is the Pandemic Causing More Rodent Infestations?

Rodents infest Wisconsin homes during the pandemic - Batzner Pest Control

Here in Wisconsin, we are accustomed to rodent infestations in the fall. However, they are surging in number this year due to the pandemic. When restaurants and bars were put on restrictions, rodents were suddenly deprived of one of their top sources of food. This forced them to look elsewhere and to compete for the little resources available. Unfortunately, this has led to a direct increase in infestations. Rodents aren’t just a nuisance—they can be very dangerous if they infest your property. For this reason alone, it’s crucial to learn how to prevent them. This Rodent Awareness Week, the team at Batzner Pest Control is focusing on providing our customers with rodent infestation prevention tips.

Here’s How to Prevent Rodents in 2020

The best form of rodent control is prevention! Try out the following tips to make your property less attractive to rats and mice this season:

  • Store food properly. Securely store food in tight-fitting containers with lids.
  • Seal holes around pipes. Use caulk or wire wool to cover up gaps and openings near pipes and other openings.
  • Cover vents. Install mesh screens on your vents. Also, consider installing screens on doors and windows.
  • Use tight lids on trash cans. Rodents love to rummage in the garbage! If possible, keep your trash cans sealed and stored.
  • Protect eaves. Fix any damaged roofing and use wire mesh to seal gaps in your eaves.

Are Rodents Tied to COVID-19?

The shelter in place shutdowns caused an uptick in residential rodent sightings as rats and mice became bolder in their hunt for resources. This has since caused an uptick in infestations and rodent-spread issues. While their presence may be more prevalent than ever, you thankfully do not need to worry about rodents transmitting COVID-19 to you or your family.

That said, rodents still can spread other diseases including hantavirus, salmonellosis, and many more. They also can cause significant damage to your home. With rodents more aggressive in the current moment, they will not hesitate to make themselves at home in your home this winter.

Rodent Awareness Week 2020

With the pandemic, rodent problems have exacerbated. This makes it more important than ever to ensure your home and family are protected against rodents. The team at Batzner is ready to help. Our rodent exterminators will work with you to ensure your property is safe from rodents all year long.

Protect Your Home From Fall Rodents

Fall rodents can get inside through properties in Wisconsin - Batzner Pest Control

Rodents are one of the most dreaded pest problems. They are especially troublesome in the fall when the weather changes. Before wintertime, rodents come inside to escape cooling temperatures and to seek out shelter and food. Rodents are dangerous not only because they are destructive, but because they can spread germs and disease as well. At Batzner Pest Control, we know how important it is to keep your family safe from rodents. We also know you want to feel comfortable in your home and enjoy the fall season without worrying about rats or mice! Keep reading to learn how to protect your home from rodents this fall and all year long.

How do Rats and Mice Get Inside?

Rodents aren’t exactly subtle, and it can be easy to tell when you have a rat or mouse problem in your property. But where do rodents take shelter? Rats and mice will take shelter in the attic, basement, and garage. They also will infest kitchens, laundry rooms, and are highly likely to invade your trash cans if given the chance. Mice can scale walls, squeeze through tiny openings, jump, and build nests in just about any room you can imagine. A rat or mouse problem often begins when the rodents get in through your chimney, pipes, air vents, and more. This is why it’s so important to protect your property from rats and mice.

Tips to Prevent Rodents in Your Home

To avoid the frustration of rats and mice in your home, it’s important to learn how to keep them out in the first place. Our top tips for keeping rodents out are as follows:

  1. Cover vents. Install mesh screens on your vents. Also, consider installing screens on doors and windows.
  2. Use tight lids on trash cans. Rodents love to rummage in the garbage! If possible, keep your trash cans sealed and stored.
  3. Protect eaves. Fix any damaged roofing and use wire mesh to seal gaps in your eaves.
  4. Store food properly. Securely store food in tight-fitting containers with lids.
  5. Seal holes around pipes. Use caulk or wire wool to cover up gaps and openings near pipes and other openings.

Fall Rodents in Wisconsin

The last thing you want to deal with in the fall season is a rat or mouse problem in your property. Rodents can be a pain to deal with: not only do they spread germs and bacteria, but they also will chew wires in your home and make a mess while nesting. As soon as you suspect the signs of rodents inside, call the team at Batzner. Our rodent exterminators can help control current infestations and prevent future ones from happening.

Are Rodents Able to Spread Coronavirus?

Rats do not spread COVID-19 - Batzner Pest Control in Wisconsin

Rodents are infamous for their ability to directly or indirectly transmit some of the world’s most dangerous diseases. SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, is not one of them. The team at Batzner knows that new information is being released daily about this pandemic. As always, we remain committed to ensuring our customers are aware of any pest-related dangers. We have seen a lot of questions surrounding the role of rats and other animals with transmission.

While rats and mice have been linked to other coronaviruses and other dangerous diseases, there is no evidence to currently suggest they are transmitting or spreading COVID-19.

Rodents & Coronaviruses

Including the virus causing the current pandemic (SARS-CoV-2), the three most recently discovered human coronaviruses have all proven to pose a serious threat to human life and health. These three viruses have all been genetically traced to a bat origin that crossed over first to other animals before eventually to human beings.

Rodents are capable of carrying several coronaviruses, but they have yet to be linked to any direct transmissions of COVID-19. According to a study, the rodents found to carry coronaviruses were kept in poor conditions on farms, markets, and restaurants in Vietnam alongside other animals. These unique circumstances make the risk of rats transmitting coronavirus to humans extremely unlikely.

Other Dangers of Rodents in a Pandemic

Although we know that rats aren’t directly transmitting SARS-CoV-2 at the moment, there are still a couple things to be aware of. The two other reasons why it’s important to prevent and control rodent problems during the pandemic and all year long are:

  1. Rats and mice can spread other diseases, including hantavirus, salmonellosis, and plague. They also can indirectly transmit diseases from ticks, mosquitoes, lice, and fleas. Some of these include Colorado tick fever, Lyme disease, and others.
  2. Due to the nature of the lockdowns and restaurant closures, there have been a number of reported cases of rats and mice becoming more bold and rampant in the absence of food sources. This activity in itself increases the risk of infestations and rodent-related problems.

Year-Round Rodent Prevention

In the midst of a pandemic or not, rodent prevention is crucial to protecting your family not only from the potential disease they spread, but also the damage they can cause. In recent months, rats and mice alike have been forced to drastic measures to seek out new food sources. While it’s good to know that rodents won’t transmit COVID-19 to your family, they still pose several other dangerous health risks. Whether you need help preventing or controlling rats, the rodent control team at Batzner is committed to keeping rats and mice away from you and your home.

Do DIY Pest Control Methods Work?

Sprays are a common DIY pest control method in New Berlin WI. Learn more from Batzner Pest Control.

You see a trail of ants near your windowsill, and head to the store to buy ant baits and traps. We’ve all been there and have had success to varying degrees of success. But does DIY pest control really work? While store-bought products may work to control small pest problems, they are never a solution for larger infestations. Here at Batzner Pest Control, we want our customers to make well-informed decisions when it comes to protecting their homes from pests. Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of DIY pest control and professional pest control.

DIY Pest Control: How Effective is It?

For small pest problems, store-bought or DIY methods may work to get rid of them. However, DIY pest control does not work to control bigger infestations or prevent future ones. There are a number of disadvantages of DIY methods. First of all, do-it-yourself methods simply won’t work to control more dangerous pests such as termites, bed bugs, rodents, carpenter ants, and more.

In addition, a lot of store-bought products are laden with chemicals that can be dangerous for your family if applied incorrectly. These products also rarely come with a guarantee or warranty on their effectiveness. Bottom line, it’s always a gamble when it comes to DIY pest control.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Pest Control Company

Let’s face it: no one wants to deal with pests on their own. That’s where a professional exterminator can help! Although professional pest control is a bigger commitment of your time and money, it will pay off tenfold. Some of the benefits of teaming up with a professional exterminator include:

  1. A pest control company has the knowledge and experience to tackle any current infestation you have. Exterminators are experts in the behaviors and habits of pests, making it easier to control any problems quickly and efficiently.
  2. With a focus on IPM practices, exterminators can also work to prevent future problems.
  3. Whenever possible, a professional will use environmentally-responsible products that are always applied safely and effectively.
  4. If you choose to get regular pest control services, your exterminator will work with you to develop a customized pest control program suited to the unique needs of your property.

Choosing Between DIY and Professional Pest Control

As soon as you discover a pest problem, you want them gone as soon as possible. To achieve this, it’s always best to enlist the help of a professional pest control company instead of using DIY methods. At Batzner, our goal is to provide our customers with pest-free living all year round in Wisconsin. To learn more about how we can help, contact our team today!