Rodent Issues in Atlanta: Understanding and Managing Rat and Mouse Infestations

Picture this: you’re sitting at home, trying to relax and enjoy your evening. You turn on the TV, pour yourself a glass of wine, and settle in for some much-needed peace and quiet. But suddenly, you hear a scurrying sound in the corner of the room. 

And then another. And then another. Before you know it, you’re face to face with a rat. Or maybe it’s a mouse. 

Regardless of which (unwanted) furry creature you’re dealing with, the feeling of dread and disgust is universal. 

In Atlanta, rodent issues are a common problem, but they don’t have to be a hopeless one. In this post, we’ll explore the causes of rat and mouse infestations, the dangers they pose, and how you can effectively manage them to keep your home or business rodent-free.

Why Are Rodents an Issue in Atlanta?

From rats in the subway stations to mice in our homes, rodents have been plaguing the city for decades. So, why exactly are rodents such an issue in Atlanta? 

The primary issue is that rodents pose a significant health risk to humans. They carry a variety of diseases that can be transmitted to humans through bites, scratches, and even contact with their feces and urine. 

Diseases such as salmonella, hantavirus, and rat-bite fever are just a few examples of the illnesses that rodents can transmit. Not only that, but rodents attract other pests like fleas and ticks that can also cause health problems for humans.

Another reason why rodents are a problem in Atlanta is that the city provides an ideal habitat for them to thrive. With its warm climate, many parks, and wooded areas, there’s plenty of food and shelter available for rodents to build their nests and breed. Add to that the availability of food sources in urban areas, and it’s easy to see why rodent infestations have become common in homes and businesses across the city.

Rodents can also cause structural damage to buildings. Rodents have strong teeth that can chew through wood, electrical wires, and other materials, causing costly repairs and potential fire hazards. Moreover, the droppings and urine of rodents can carry a distinct, unpleasant odor that can affect the quality of indoor air.

What Methods Help to Prevent Mice and Rat Infestations?

Don’t panic! There are plenty of steps you can take to prevent these little critters from taking up residence in your home. 

Here are some effective methods for keeping mice and rats out of your life.

1. Seal Up Your Home

The first step to keeping mice and rats out is to make sure there are no openings for them to sneak through. Check your vents, pipes, and other openings in your walls, and seal them up with caulk or expanding foam. 

Make sure your doors and windows have tight seals, and consider adding weatherstripping to prevent gaps. Don’t forget to check your attic and basement for any openings that could let pests sneak in.

2. Clean Up Your Yard

Rodents love to hide in cluttered areas, so keep your yard tidy to reduce the chances of an infestation. 

Get rid of any piles of leaves or debris, and keep your lawn trimmed. Don’t leave any standing water in your yard, as this can attract rodents and other pests. If you have a compost pile, make sure it’s properly contained to prevent rodents from getting in.

3. Remove Potential Food Sources

Rodents are attracted to food sources, so take steps to eliminate them from your home. Store your food in airtight containers, and keep your counters and floors clean. 

Don’t leave pet food out overnight, and make sure your garbage cans have tight-fitting lids. If you have a bird feeder, consider moving it away from your house, as spilled seed can attract rodents.

4. Engage in Regular Rodent Inspections

The best way to prevent a full-blown infestation is to catch it early. Keep an eye out for signs of rodents, such as droppings or chewed-up wires. 

If you suspect you have a problem, set up some traps or call in a professional pest control service. Regular inspections can help you catch any problems before they get out of hand.

How Do You Get Rid of Mice and Rodents?

Mice and rodents rank at the top of the list of the most unwanted pests in many households. 

If you are experiencing an infestation, don’t panic, as there are several ways to get rid of mice and rodents. 

Traps are the first example. There are several types of traps available in the market, but the most common ones are snap traps, live traps, and glue traps. Snap traps work by snapping closed when triggered, while live traps capture the mice or rodents for release elsewhere. 

Glue traps are used to catch pests by sticking to the surface and holding them down until they die. However, glue traps are considered inhumane and not allowed in many cities.

Baits are another common way to get rid of mice and rodents. They work by putting out a poisoned substance that, when eaten, kills the pests. Baits come in different forms, including pellets, blocks, and gels. Baits can be dangerous to pets and humans if not used correctly, so it’s best to work with professionals.

In general, it’s wise to contact a pest control professional if you’re dealing with a rodent infestation. They have the knowledge and equipment to pinpoint the root cause of the infestation and eliminate it effectively. Their services often include inspection, exclusion, and sanitation. 

The Best Rodent Control Atlanta Has to Offer

When it comes to rodent control, it’s important to choose a company that you can trust. Hawx Pest Control has the experience, expertise, and solutions to get rid of rodents for good. 

From our exceptional customer service to our competitive pricing, we take pride in everything we do. Contact us today to learn more about our rodent control services, and let us help you take back control of your property!