All rodents need food, water and shelter to survive. Keeping rodents out means taking steps to remove all three.
- Clean areas where food crumbs may fall, such as under the stove, refrigerator and in the back of pantries and cupboards.
- Remove uneaten pet food. If you keep a pet's water bowl outside, consider moving it inside.
- Keep an eye out for any plumbing leaks. This is a perfect source of drinking water.
- Keep garbage bins clean and well maintained. If possible use rodent-proof bins.
- Prevent ingress to your home by sealing any gaps, holes and other potential entry. Use rodent-proofing materials.
- Rodents love wild bird seed and will often feed off what falls to the ground. Either switch to a better bird feeder with a cone baffle or remove it completely.
- Wood piles make the perfect homes for rats. Consider moving your wood pile to a shed or garage.
- If you use a compost bin outdoors, position them so that they get direct sunlight and ensure that it is not placed up against a fence or hedge, which allows easy access for rats.
- Remove all debris and clutter from your yard.
- Keep fruit trees pruned and remove any fruit that has fallen to the ground.
Lastly, using a rodent repellent spray can keep rodents from chewing, eating licking, biting or gnawing on items.
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