Where Do Rats & Mice Nest?

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Where Do Rats & Mice Nest?

Sarah Beck • November 10, 2021

Where Do Rats & Mice Nest?

As the winter weather rolls in, rats and mice seek out warm and secure areas, with easy access to food and water, to build their nests and that could involve the use of your property, whether it be in your garden, garage or even your home.

So what do these rodents look for when building a nest, how can you get rid of them and what can you do to prevent it happening again? The Pest Master is on hand to answer all of your questions surrounding mice and rat nest removal in Derby.

What do rodents look for when building a nest?

Despite being relatively similar, rats and mice look for different things when it comes to building their own nests. With one animal looking for warm and secure places to raise their young where the other would rather have a reliable food and water source nearby.

Depending on where you find a particular nest, it can be determined which pest you’re dealing with. However, if you call a professional in, such as the experts here at The Pest Master, to undertake rodent control services in Derby, then we can carry out the following:

A meticulous survey
Rodent proofing
Habitat manipulation
Thorough sanitation

This will give you absolute peace of mind that your rodent infestation is under control and preventative measures put in place to help ensure the problem doesn’t reoccur. Although, regular visits by our specialist team will help to keep these pests at bay.

What do rats look for?

Rats look for somewhere warm and secure in a bid to raise their young. The location they opt for is also likely to be sheltered, although if groundwater levels rise, it can force them to relocate. Although they’re more likely to build their nests under sheds or in garages, there is a chance that they could inhabit your home if the right measurements aren’t put in place.

Quick and easy access to food and water is also something rats will seek out when choosing a place to build their nest. On average, rats eat around 30g of food and drink approximately 60ml of water every day and so nearby food and water sources are paramount for their survival.

However, the areas they search in order to find water and food will be within a very short radius of their nest as they’re notoriously cautious animals. Once a rat relocates, they’ll be very careful about when and how far they travel for food and water until they become more established.

Rats will also seek out ideal nesting materials unless a property has already provided that for them. They’ll look for warm and dry areas with soft surroundings as this is the ideal environment for birthing and raising their young. Rats will use the following materials to fill their nests:

Shredded newspaper
Grass
Leaves
Cardboard
Loft insulation
Wool
Cloth or fabric scraps
Old pieces of clothing

In summary, rats look for:

Sheltered, warm and dry locations
Quick and easy access to food and water
Safe and secure areas
Soft nesting materials

What do mice look for?

It doesn’t take much for a male and female mouse to establish themselves somewhere on your property. Once they’re settled, they’ll waste no time in building their nest as, like most animals, their sole aim is survival. There are plenty of reasons why mice will look to build a nest so quickly, including:

To breed
To keep themselves warm and dry
To store their food
To protect their young against predators
To raise their young

Unlike rats, mice build nests solely to breed and protect their offspring and so they’ll want to make their nests as warm, secure and comfortable as possible. Mice will scavenge materials from around your home, looking for a number of different materials, such as the following:

Food wrappers
String
Fabric scraps and rags
Mattress and pillow stuffing
Loft insulation
Torn pieces of clothing
Newspaper
Shredded pieces of cardboard
Fibreglass

If you notice any chewed or gnawed materials throughout your home, then the likelihood is that you have mice nesting somewhere on or in your property. A mouse’s nest isn’t neatly built, in fact, it’s rather messy. They’ll gather as many ideal materials as possible and bundle them all into a ball, with no particular order or process in mind. As long as it’s soft, warm and safe, they’ll be happy.

In summary, mice look for:

Safe and secure locations
Dry and warm areas
Soft nesting materials

Where do rodents nest?

Where rats and mice look for different things when building their nests, the locations in which they decide to establish themselves are also somewhat different. Where one animal will be happy in your loft, the other will be content under your garden shed or even beneath your decking. But where is each rodent most likely to build their nest?

Where do rats like to build their nests?

Rats aren’t particularly fussy about the location of their nest, just as long as food and water is nearby and the area is sheltered and warm. But if you’re worried about having rats on your property, then you’re most likely to find a nest in the following places:

Sheds
Outbuildings
Garages
In the garden
Basements or cellars
Attics or lofts
In the walls

You’re less likely to see a rat during the day as they’re nocturnal animals. They like to leave their nests and forage through dusk and dawn when you’re in bed. But by checking the aforementioned areas, you’ll be able to easily determine whether you’re dealing with a rat infestation or not. However, if you want to be 100% sure, you should call upon a specialist to help you, such as The Pest Master.

Here at The Pest Master, we have a reliable rat control service in Derby that can be utilised by both domestic and commercial clients. When dealing with rat infestations, our team of highly-qualified professionals will:

Inspect your property, identifying possible nesting sites
Treat the problem as quickly, effectively and humanely as possible
Protect your property against subsequent infestations
Maintain that protection with periodic visits at a time and day to suit you

Where do mice like to build their nests?

Mice like to construct their nests outside rather than inside, most of the time. However, if they think your home best mimics their perfect outdoor nest, then they’ll waste no time in moving into your house. Mice are likely to build their nests in the following places:

Underground, outdoor areas
Beneath the floorboards
Ceiling insulation
Loft insulation
Garages
Under kitchen cupboards
Under white goods
In between the walls
Undergrowth in the garden

The Pest Master has a highly-effective mice control service in Derby that’ll help to banish these particular rodents from your property for good. Much like with our rat control service, we’ll seek out mice nests, efficiently and humanely treat the problem, protect your home and maintain that protection with regular home visits all for your absolute peace of mind.

How can you get rid of rodents’ nests?

If you find a mice or rats’ nest, you shouldn’t touch it or disturb it in any way. Instead, you should call a pest control professional to deal with the problem in a safe and effective manner. With that in mind, you can always rely on The Pest Master to provide you with a professional, expert service that can always be counted upon.

Where there are several self-treatments available, they should be carefully considered. The misuse of such treatments can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment as home remedies need to be carried out in accordance with the law. If you choose The Pest Master for rodent control services in Derby, then you can rest assured that we’ll always act within the bounds of the law every single time.

It’s also important that rodent removal is done as safely as possible in order to protect those residing in your home. The Pest Master will ensure both yourself and your family will be safe at all times when ridding your property of such pests.

Why should you choose The Pest Master for rodent control in Derby?

Fast, effective and humane treatments will be carried out
Visits will be arranged at a time and day to suit your lifestyle
All pest control removals are carried out with everyone’s safety in mind
Inspections, treatments and preventative measures are conducted meticulously

If you’d like further information about our rodent control services in Derby, get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team today - we endeavour to provide expert rat control and mice control services throughout the East Midlands, keeping our clients and their safety at the forefront of everything we do.

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Do rats come out during the day? Why do rats suddenly appear? Rats in general are nocturnal and are mostly seen during sunset and sunrise. However, depending on whether food is available during these times will largely depend on whether rats will be seen during daylight hours. It can also depend on the size of an infestation. If the colony is fairly large the older and more dominant rats will venture out at night in search for a snack as its safer to do so and the sub dominant rats have to come out for a look in the day. Regardless of the time of year rats may be seen during the day and this can indicate the presence of well-established and long running rat infestation. The reason rats appear almost out of nowhere can depend on a number of factors Smells and odour coming from food waste, pet waste and pet food, barbecues, birdfeeders, and certain plants can all encourage a rat to your garden and close to home. It is of utmost importance that you keep the area around your home clean, tidy and rubbish free. You should make sure your bins are emptied on a regular basis and the area around bins is clean and sanitised and that the lid is always fully closed. If you have overflowing bins, an unkept garden, overgrown plants and bushes, you stand to give the rodents a nice place to live, thrive and reproduce. Are rats hard to get rid of? How long does it take to get rid of a rat infestation? How easy it is to get on top of a rat issue will mostly depend on the size of the infestation and how long it has been present. If the rat population has had the chance to grow and to multiply rapidly into large numbers it will take significantly longer than if you catch the problem early. There is always the possibility that other contributing factors can make things more difficult, or even worse something that cannot be conquered and yet something that needs to be managed long term. Depending on your surroundings, this too can have an influence, for example if neighbouring properties are untidy and kept in poor shape this can encourage the rodents to frequent in your spaces too, maybe popping in for a visit. If surrounding areas are heavily wooded or if there are animals kept nearby this too can cause issues. Getting the correct support is always the best solution. There are always DIY remedies but in general they take longer, cost more and in most circumstances don’t work at all and can make things worse. Using your own DIY methods can incur serious problems such as risk to human and animal wellbeing. Huge fines can be imposed if guidance is not followed. It is always best to call in the professionals, Pest Control experts are trained and qualified in this field have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to dealing with these furry fiends.

How Do I Keep Rats & Mice Away from the Garden & Entering My Home?

By Sarah Beck • December 20, 2023

Winter can be a challenging time for homeowners and their gardens, as rodents, such as mice and rats, seek shelter and food in the warmth of our homes and gardens. These pests can cause significant damage to our plants, vegetables and even structures if left unchecked. However, there are several effective ways to keep rodents away from your garden during the winter months, including professional pest control services . These can provide valuable assistance in preventing and managing rodent infestations. How do I prevent a rodent infestation in my garden? There are many ways in which you can prevent rodents from gaining access to your home and to your garden. From Keeping food sources at bay and using physical barriers to moving your log store and bringing in the professional pest control specialists, here’s how you can prevent a rodent infestation in your home: Keep food sources to a minimum One of the first steps in rodent prevention is to eliminate any potential food sources in and around your garden. Rodents are attracted to bird feeders, compost piles, fallen fruits and unsealed rubbish bins. By removing or securing these food sources, you can significantly reduce the chances of attracting rodents. Keep your garden tidy Additionally, make sure to clean up fallen leaves, trim overgrown vegetation and keep your garden free of debris, as these can provide hiding places for rodents. If you happen to have wood storage for a log burner in your garden, make sure that the logs aren’t stored directly next to the home as this is a great hiding spot for the rodents. As well as this, you’re also opening up a doorway into your home from the outside when you open the door to gather up some logs. You should take steps to move your log store further away from your home and keep it as tidy as possible. Use rodent repellents Another effective method to deter rodents is by using natural repellents. Plants like lavender, rosemary and marigolds have strong scents that rodents dislike. Planting these around your garden can act as a natural deterrent. Give physical barriers a try Physical barriers can also be helpful in keeping rodents away. Installing wire mesh or hardware cloth around the perimeter of your garden can prevent rodents from entering. Make sure to bury the mesh at least a few inches below the ground to prevent digging. You should also consider using mesh or netting to cover vulnerable plants or vegetables in order to effectively protect them from rodent damage. Call The Pest Master Pest control professionals, such as us here at The Pest Master, can play a crucial role in rodent prevention during the winter months. We have the knowledge and expertise to identify potential entry points and assess the severity of the infestation. Pest control can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific situation, such as: Trapping Bait stations Sealing entry points Regular inspections and maintenance by professionals can help ensure that your garden and home remains rodent-free throughout the winter season. The last thing you want or need is for the rodents to find a way into the home. If you start to notice activity within your garden, call in the experts at The Pest Master for help. How can I deter rodents from coming near my property in the first place? In addition to their preventive measures, pest control services can also help when it comes to expert advice and guidance about how you can make your home as unattractive as possible for rats and mice. You can’t have a rodent problem if there aren’t any rodents nearby to worry about. If, however, you do suffer from an infestation at some point, then The Pest Master will carry out safe and humane removal of rodents that have already infested your garden. We can use traps or baits specifically designed for professional use against rodents and employ techniques that minimise harm to other wildlife and the environment. Keeping rodents away from your garden in winter requires a combination of proactive measures and professional assistance. By eliminating food sources, using natural repellents, installing physical barriers and seeking the help of pest control services, you can effectively protect your garden from rodent damage. Remember to take action early to prevent infestations and maintain a healthy and thriving garden throughout the winter season. If you would like further information about the rodent control , mice control and rat control services we have available here at The Pest Master, then get in touch with a member of our friendly, expert team today - we’re always pleased to hear from you.

How do you get rid of bed bugs? How can I prevent bed bugs?

By Sarah Beck • October 30, 2023

If you're dealing with bed bugs, it's crucial to take immediate action. It’s highly-recommended that you reach out to a professional pest control company , like us here at The Pest Master.

Bed Bugs - What Are They and What Do They Look Like?

By Sarah Beck • October 13, 2023

Adult bed bugs have an oval and flattened shape, resembling small brownish-red discs. They are about the size of an apple seed, measuring between 4-6mm in length. Their shed skins are lighter brown and appear as flaky exoskeletons. These pesky insects have mouths specially adapted for piercing the skin and sucking blood. While they do not possess wings, they have six sturdy legs that allow them to crawl on most vertical surfaces. The Bed Bug Life Cycle The life cycle of a bed bug progresses through several stages: egg, several immature nymph stages, and finally, adulthood. This process, called incomplete metamorphosis, can span from 6 to 10 months. In contrast, other insects like fleas undergo complete metamorphosis, which includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Bed bugs reproduce through a rather unsettling process called "traumatic insemination." The male bed bug stabs the female's abdomen and injects sperm into the wound. A female bed bug can lay anywhere from 200 to 500 eggs over a period of two months, usually in clusters of 10 to 50. These sticky eggs attach to furniture or fittings. Bed bug eggs are elongated and whitish cream in colour. As they near hatching, they darken. The early stages of bed bugs, known as nymphs, are extremely tiny and can be challenging to spot without magnification. Under favourable conditions, bed bug eggs can hatch in approximately a week, and the newly hatched nymphs go through five moulting stages before reaching maturity. Each malt requires a blood meal, and with an adequate supply of blood and favourable conditions, they can mature in as little as a month, producing multiple generations per year. The typical lifespan of a bed bug is around ten months. How Do Bed Bugs Act? Similar to other blood-sucking arthropods, bed bugs inject saliva while feeding, which contains anticoagulant properties. This can make their bites initially go unnoticed. When not feeding, a bed bug's proboscis or "feeding tube" is tucked under its body. After a meal, they can increase in length by up to 50% and in weight by 200%. Bed bugs are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide emitted by a host and can quickly locate a suitable feeding site. They can remain inactive for weeks or months and "awaken" when they detect biological signatures like CO2. Bed bugs are nocturnal and tend to feed when people are asleep, as it is the safest time for them to obtain a meal without being disturbed. However, in heavily infested areas, they may become opportunistic and feed during the day if conditions are favourable. When startled, they move swiftly and emit an odour. How Do I Know If I Have Bedbugs? What Are the Early Signs of a Bedbug Infestation? Bed bugs can be tricky to detect as their bites are often mistaken for mosquito bites or allergic reactions. However, there are many signs that may indicate an infestation. Red and irritating bites, typically in rows on your neck, shoulders, back, legs, or arms Small clusters of reddish-brown spots or dark faecal spots that resemble ink dots. These are usually found on the bed frame, upholstery, or the underside of the mattress Small blood smears on the bed clothes or on your headboard Bed bug malt skins, pale-white eggs, and empty eggshells. These may be small but are still visible to the human eye The most obvious sign, although not always the first, is actually seeing the small brown insects themselves in and around your bed frame or sleeping area It's important to note that bites alone do not necessarily mean you have a bed bug infestation. Look for these other signs and if you're unsure, it's best to call a pest professional like The Pest Master for assistance.

Rodents and the Problems They Cause

By Sarah Beck • July 31, 2023

Rodents and the Problems They Cause When we see an increase in rodent activity it may be alarming to homeowners and business owners alike, as these small creatures seek shelter and food in and around human habitats. While they may seem harmless at first glance, rodents can cause a myriad of problems that can be both frustrating and potentially dangerous. In this article, we will explore the various issues caused by rodents and discuss the importance of taking necessary measures to control their population. One of the primary problems rodents bring is the damage they inflict on property. Rats and mice have a natural instinct to chew, and they do not discriminate when it comes to what they chew on. From electrical wiring to wooden structures, rodents can cause significant damage that can lead to costly repairs. They gnaw through walls, insulation, and even pipes, which can result in leaks and water damage. Additionally, their constant chewing can weaken the structural integrity of buildings, posing a risk to inhabitants. Moreover, rodents are carriers of various diseases, making them a threat to human health. They can transmit diseases through their urine, faeces, and bites. Hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis are just a few examples of the diseases that can be contracted from rodents. These illnesses can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can be fatal. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid direct contact with rodents and maintain a clean environment to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Rodents also have a voracious appetite, and during the summer, they take advantage of the abundance of food sources available. They can contaminate stored food in pantries, restaurants, and agricultural fields, leading to both economic losses and potential health hazards. The presence of rodent droppings and urine can render food unfit for human consumption, necessitating its disposal. This not only wastes valuable resources but also poses a risk to public health if contaminated food finds its way back into the market. Furthermore, the reproduction rate of rodents is astonishingly high, especially during the summer months. A single female rat can produce up to 3-6 litters per year, with each litter consisting of 7-8 offspring. This rapid breeding cycle results in an exponential increase in rodent populations if left unchecked. Consequently, their population explosion can lead to overcrowding, competition for resources, and territorial disputes. As they seek shelter, rodents may invade homes, attics, and basements, causing distress and discomfort to both business and home owners. Effective control against rodents To combat the problems caused by rodents, it is necessary to implement effective control measures. Prevention is key in rodent management. Maintaining a clean environment, sealing any entry points, and storing food properly are essential steps in reducing their attraction to your property or business. Regular inspections and repairs of structural damage are also vital to prevent rodents from gaining access to your home or business. Its important to know what the best materials to use are, as a lot of DIY methods may not stand up to the might of the rodent. Some members of the public may use DIY rodent baits, it is imperative to know what the dangers are around using such baits and how they can impact the environment. One of the main concerns regarding rodenticide use in the UK is the potential for secondary poisoning of non-target species. When rodents consume bait containing rodenticides, they may become poisoned. Predatory birds, such as barn owls and kestrels, can then consume the poisoned rodents, leading to their own poisoning. To address this issue, the UK has introduced new regulations and best practice guidelines for rodenticide use. These measures aim to reduce the risk of secondary poisoning and protect non-target wildlife, ensuring you know the legal requirements surrounding the use of rodenticide and the implications if used incorrectly. The Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) UK has played a key role in promoting responsible rodent control and educating professionals in the industry about best practices. This is something a professional pest controller will know well. Why its best to employ the professionals In addition to prevention, professional pest control services can be employed to address an existing rodent problem. Trained technicians can conduct thorough inspections, identify entry points, and implement targeted control strategies. These may include trapping, baiting, and the use of rodenticides in a safe and responsible manner. It is crucial to consult professionals who prioritize the safety of both humans and the environment when dealing with rodent infestations. In conclusion, rodents can cause a plethora of problems that range from property damage to health risks. Their propensity to chew, spread diseases, contaminate food sources, and breed rapidly poses significant challenges for homeowners, businesses, and public health. By implementing preventive measures and seeking professional pest control services.

All About Ants

By Sarah Beck • July 11, 2023

Ants are social insects that live in colonies consisting of hundreds or thousands of individuals. They are known for their organized behaviour, work ethic, and ability to communicate with one another. Here are some interesting facts about ants, their behaviours, and their nests. All around us Ants are found all over the world, except for the polar regions and have been around for more than 100 million years! They are believed to have evolved from wasp-like ancestors. There are over 12,000 species of ants known to science, with more being discovered all the time. Ants are incredibly strong and can carry objects up to 50 times their body weight. They are social insects and live in colonies that can range in size from a few dozen individuals to millions. Ant colonies are typically made up of a queen, male drones, and female worker ants. The queen ant is responsible for laying eggs, while the worker ants are responsible for gathering food and caring for the young. They communicate with one another through a complex system of pheromones, chemicals that they secrete to signal messages to other members of their colony. Ants are very organized and have a division of labour within their colonies. Each ant has a specific job to do, based on their age and size. They are known for their ability to work together to solve problems, such as building bridges or rafts to cross water. They are omnivorous and will eat almost anything, including insects, plants, and other animals, with some species of ants are known to farm fungus, which they use as a food source. Although largely classed as a pest when they invade our homes, ants are important for the ecosystem, as they help to aerate soil, distribute seeds, and control insect populations. ‘Ant’ the builder Ants are capable of building some of the most complex structures in the animal kingdom, including underground tunnels and elaborate nests. The nests can range in size from a small hole in the ground to massive structures that can cover several acres. Nests are often built underground, but some species build their nests in trees or other above-ground structures. Ant nests are typically made up of chambers and tunnels, which are used for storing food, caring for young, and protecting the colony. Some species of ants, such as leaf-cutter ants, are known for their ability to strip entire trees of their leaves to build their nests. Ants are very territorial and will defend their nests aggressively against intruders. Ants are capable of working together to solve complex problems, such as finding the shortest route to a food source or defending their nest against predators. Ants are social insects that live in large colonies. While some species of ants are beneficial to the environment, others can become pests when they invade homes and gardens in search of food and shelter. Ants can contaminate food, damage structures, and cause allergies in some people. Ant pest control Dealing with an infestation of ants in your home can be extremely troubling. They usually build their nests under the ground, making the nest almost impossible to find. Controlling the ant issue may be difficult if you try to tackle this by yourself, but there are a few ways we can help you to control them. The most common treatment used by the general public before they result to employing the services of a pest controller is using ant powder, sprinkling it all over the premises causing a real mess. However, when you use home brought ant powders, you risk harming some of the other non-target species and, at the same time, there is the danger of harming animals or humans. Chemical sprays are commonly used to kill ants, but they can also harm beneficial insects and the environment. Here at The Pest Master we use professional-grade gel for ant control because it is the ideal way of controlling the ant colony, especially if you inject it strategically or place it in bait stations. This gel is carried back to the source of the problem, the nest, where treatment occurs. Once an ant infestation is dealt with there are a few things you could try to help prevent them returning in the future. These can include creating physical barriers such as sealing cracks and crevices, trimming vegetation, and removing food sources can also help prevent ants from entering homes and gardens. In summary As professionals, we don’t recommend trying ant pest control and treating your ant infestation yourself. You could potentially make matters worse or more so risk none target species and or the environment. Get in touch and let the professionals do it for you, for a longer lasting and more effective Ant treatment.