Rat peeps out of a hole in a white wall

Known for destroying structures and products and spreading disease-causing pathogens, the presence of rodents can cause major issues around your Wisconsin property. For businesses, infestations can impact your brand reputation and your bottom line. 

Amongst rodents, rats are destructive pests capable of contaminating food and surfaces. Female rats can produce up to seven litters a year with five to twelve pups. That adds up to a lot! Mice can climb, run, jump, and squeeze through a hole the size of a dime.

In Wisconsin, house mice, deer mice, Norway rats, and voles are the most common types of rodents. Batzner Pest Control exterminators face these pests every day, and are equipped to handle any infestation in and around your space.

Rodents Found in Wisconsin

House mice are pretty adaptable creatures. When they’re outside, they like to get cozy and build their nests near trees. But if they decide to move indoors, you might find them setting up shop in wall voids, cabinets, or even garages. When deer mice are out in the wild, they prefer building their nests in trees or hiding beneath logs. But when they venture into human territory, they’re more likely to hang out in basements or attics. 

Norway rats are experts at digging, capable of creating burrows that are six to seven feet long along property lines and gardens. And if they decide to come indoors, basements and crawl spaces are their go-to hangouts. Similarly, voles might look a lot like mice at first glance, but they’re much more stout. These little diggers build and live in nests underground, making them quite the subterranean architects.

Where Would I See Mice?

Mice prefer quiet, undisturbed areas, such as closets, storage areas, and wall voids. They pick natural trails to follow, such as girders, heating and electrical lines, and utility runs. So make note of any sightings or signs, such as droppings, nesting materials, or gnaw marks. This will alert your pest control provider, like Batzner Pest Control, of potential hotspots.

Tips for Mouse Prevention 

  • Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
  • Use rodent-proof materials such as hardware cloth, aluminum flashing, aluminum screening, or concrete to seal all exterior holes and openings.
  • Place ¼ inch wire mesh screens over all exterior ventilation openings.
  • Inspect roof areas and seal any gaps or openings around vents and HVAC units.
  • Designate a food area and discourage employees from keeping food at desks.
  • Clean food serving, prep, and storage areas regularly.
  • Keep vegetation around buildings trimmed back, especially low, dense shrubs and tall grasses.
  • Store firewood and unused equipment away from the building.
  • Remove clutter, such as old boxes and equipment.
  • Keep dumpsters and garbage bins tightly covered and away from the building.

Where Would I See Rats?

Rats like to burrow, so they prefer lower levels and areas that are typically unoccupied. Again, make note of any sightings or signs, such as droppings and greasy rub or gnaw marks. 

Tips for Rat Prevention 

  • Clean up spills immediately and keep food sealed.
  • Focus on exclusion by using screens on windows, installing door sweeps, and sealing gaps and cracks on the exterior.
  • Eliminate clutter in basements and outdoor buildings.
  • Work with landscapers to select plants and trees that don’t attract these pests.
  • Keep landscaping well-trimmed (avoid having it touch the building).
  • Do not overwater mulched areas around a structure.
  • Ensure that p-traps are filled with water to ensure they are sealed.
  • Use sodium vapor bulbs or LED lights of greater than 550 nm.
  • Reduce humidity by using a dehumidifier.

Your Rodent Prevention Experts

Having rodents in your home or business is no joke – they’re not just unwanted guests but also bring the risk of diseases and can seriously cause damage. When you call in the pros at Batzner Pest Control for rodent exclusion, you can expect top-notch prevention services.

If you’re ready to say goodbye to these pesky intruders, reach out to us. Call us today for a free service quote!

Download the PDF  to learn more rodent prevention tips

 

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Rodent Prevention Tips in Wisconsin

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