Kent is among the fastest growing cities in King County, and there are all kinds of popular neighborhoods, such as East Hill, Scenic Hill, Panther Lake, and The Lakes. The mix is highly unique, too, as there are dedicated residential areas, warehouses, and food processing facilities. Rodents remain one of the typical pest threats in Kent, especially due to the wet Pacific Northwest climate. The fall and winter often have rainy days, and as a result, rodents often go indoors seeking both shelter and food.
Reputable exterminators like United Pest Solutions offer comprehensive solutions for homeowners and businesses alike. The team of United Pest Solutions tackles all kinds of rodent problems across seasons and offers timely inspections and other steps for exclusion. In this guide, we will discuss every detail related to countering rodent infestations, signs of rats and mice, and much more in detail.
Rodent Problems in Kent
Typical rodents you are likely to find in Kent include Norway rats, roof rats, house mice, and voles. While in commercial districts these pests are seen all the time, homeowners usually face issues when the temperature falls and the weather changes. There are also Kent Valley hotspots, such as industrial areas and rail lines. Also, with the population growing, food waste allows pests to thrive easily.
Signs to Watch For
There are several telltale signs of rodents, such as droppings and gnaw marks. Remember that droppings of mice and rats are not the same, and you are likely to find them where you store food, such as the kitchen and storage rooms. Gnaw marks are usually visible on wires, furniture, and cardboard. Rodents often create nests, so materials like fabric pieces or insulation are signs. You will also hear unusual sounds at night, which may indicate the presence of rats and mice. Cats and dogs also often act weird when rodents are around.
Health and Safety Risks
Urine and droppings of rats and mice often spread numerous diseases, such as Hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis. There is also a risk of food contamination, and that is a concern for restaurants and homes alike. Fire hazards due to chewed wires cannot be ignored, while rats and mice also cause structural damage by gnawing wood and insulation. Many people have flare-ups of asthma and allergies due to rodents.
Know the Entry Pathways
Rodents can enter your home through any hole they can find. As a result, older homes and buildings are more at risk, considering that these aren’t maintained well. Roofline openings, vents of utility lines, and sewer lines are other notable points. If you have long tree branches that reach your main house, rodents can easily use them as bridges.
Immediate Steps to Consider
First, don’t panic and ensure you remove all food sources, including bowls containing bird or pet food. Next, seal the existing trash cans and check whether there are visible gaps and holes. Keep in mind that if rats and mice are already inside, sealing could worsen the problem.
Call a Local Exterminator in Kent
You have to call a licensed pest control company in Kent for a complete check of the house. They will find the hidden areas where rats and mice can hide, and their approach won’t be just about using pesticides. Instead, they will suggest a plan that will work best for your property type. They will remove rodents safely where possible and take additional exclusion steps. Also, the commercial rodent control plans are different and include more regular checks and assessments. Nevertheless, you need inspections even for your home, especially if you see pests every now and then. You can ask the pest control team how you can prevent future rodent issues.