As temperatures drop, rodents become increasingly likely to venture indoors in search of warm refuge and food sources as outdoor vegetation begins to wither. However, several straightforward measures can help stop them from entering a property, according to Jamie Jones, a property and garden specialist at Open Space Concepts.
Jones has revealed that there are some quick five-minute jobs worth completing now to help prevent a rodent invasion. These measures avoid the need for toxic pellets or inhumane traps, which pose significant risks when there are pets or young children in the household.
Install chicken wire and cultivate herbs throughout the garden
It is advisable to start outdoors, as rodents are typically drawn to produce or other accessible food in bird feeders before eventually finding their way inside. Jones explained: "Any outdoor spaces also need to be protected from rodents and other pests, as they can negatively affect your lawn and any crops. Adding sturdy fencing and chicken wire is a great way to deter rodents from even entering your garden."
He added: "It is also a good idea to add netting or a chicken wire fence around any pergolas or outdoor seating areas to stop pests from entering these areas."
A natural remedy to prevent rats from invading a garden is to plant strongly fragrant flowers and herbs, as rodents have highly sensitive noses and are easily irritated by certain scents. Jones said: "Additionally, adding netting around any fruit trees or vegetable crops can help protect them from animals. Planting repellent plants, such as lavender, mint, and rosemary, will also help to deter rodents and other pests."
Store food properly and seal it away
Rodents venture indoors during winter in search of food and will remain wherever there is a reliable source of sustenance. Ensure food is not left uncovered on worktops, avoid leaving it in bin bags for extended periods, and make certain that any floor crumbs are swept up daily.
Jones said: "If you keep food in drawers and cupboards, make sure that any bags of produce, such as rice and potatoes, are sealed using a clip or put into an airtight container. Furthermore, make sure other foods, such as bread and cheese, are securely stored and not left out for rodents to get at."
Block up any gaps and crevices around your home
Mice are capable of squeezing through openings roughly the size of a pencil, while rats can gain access through a gap approximately the size of a two-pence penny, making it essential to inspect a home for any small cracks they may be using as entry points.
Jones explained: "The first step you should do is to inspect both your home and any garden rooms you may have for gaps and holes; rodents and insects can creep through the tiniest of crevices. This may involve needing to reseal around windows, adding rubber seals to exterior doors, and in some cases plastering up gaps in walls."
Examine spaces beneath doors or around window frames and inspect roof vents, gutters and chimneys, as rodents can gain access to attics via these routes.
Use essential oils and houseplants as repellents
Rodents are highly sensitive to certain scents, so using essential oils or keeping houseplants can be effective in deterring them. Pungent items can help disguise the aroma of food and may lead rodents to sense danger if they cannot identify the origin of an intense smell.
Jones noted: "Essential oils, including peppermint oil and lemon oil, and plants such as lavender and bay leaves will help to deter rodents; aroma diffusers and essential oils are affordable and have plenty of added benefits aside from keeping rodents away."
It is important to remember that some essential oils and houseplants can prove extremely toxic to pets, so ensure thorough research is conducted before introducing them into a household with animals.
If all else fails
If you notice multiple rodents in your property or encounter them repeatedly, it is advisable to contact a pest control service for guidance, as you could be dealing with an infestation.
Jones explained: "Even with all these tips and tricks, pests may remain and still be successful in gaining access to your home. At this point, it is likely that you'll need to bring in the professionals. Pest exterminators may be able to find issues you couldn't and are likely to have more specialist equipment."
