Rodent Identification & Prevention

Understanding Rodents: Common Pests in New Braunfels

Field mice, roof rats, and Norway rats live in large populations in our area and, unfortunately, are regular visitors to our indoor and outdoor spaces. Mice and rats are rodents that have developed a close relationship with people across the world. They are common New Braunfels household pests that can find their way into any of our homes, no matter where they are, or how clean and organized, or cluttered and well-lived in they may be. Rodents are equal opportunity pests that we need to protect our Texas homes from throughout the entire year.

The Dangers of Rodents in Your Home

When mice and rats find their way into our homes, they quickly and easily spread bacteria and pathogens that will make you and your family ill. Rodents spread hantavirus, salmonella, leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever.

As rodents travel through our homes, they cover and contaminate surfaces, food, clothing, and stored items with their urine and feces. They will also chew holes in upholstered furniture, clothing, pillows, and other items as they gather nesting materials.

All rodents have ever-growing front incisors; they use those sharp, front teeth to cause a lot of dangerous and costly damage inside our homes. When rodents nest and forage for food in our houses, they gnaw through and damage wires, pipes, drywall, flooring, and electrical equipment.

Identifying the Causes of Your Rodent Problem

Mice and rats inhabit the outdoor spaces all around our homes, making our houses an easy target for rodent activity.

Rodents have become a problem on your property because it offers them the things they need to survive — food, water, and a safe place to nest.

In Texas, rodents can survive in our yards throughout the year but will choose to move indoors if our temperature-controlled homes provide them with an escape from harsh weather (hot or cold temperatures) or if they are having trouble finding food.

Common Hiding Spots for Rodents in Your Home

When one or two rodents first find their way into a house, it is common for them to go unnoticed.

Rodents are prey animals and are good at hiding in dark, quiet, hidden areas of any space they inhabit. In our homes, spaces behind walls, appliances, cabinets, attics or crawl spaces, or under furniture are where rodents typically nest and hang out. They are nocturnal and do most of their foraging at night while we are sleeping.

Though they are good at hiding, a rodent problem doesn't usually stay hidden for long. Rodents are prolific breeders, and it won't take long for their numbers to grow to a size where their presence can no longer remain hidden. Signs of a rodent problem include:

• Discovering gnaw marks on cabinets, furniture, boxes, and food containers
• Finding their dark, rice-like droppings in drawers, along the floor, and in closets or other storage areas.
• Finding grease or dirt marks on walls or along pieces of furniture. 
• Noticing a strong, musty odor in a certain area of your home.
• Hearing rustling or scratching sounds behind walls or above ceilings.

Effective Solutions to Eliminate Rodents

Don't try to tackle a rodent infestation on your own. Partnering with a professional is the fastest way to get rid of rodents currently in your New Braunfels home and put into place the measures necessary to keep these pests out in the future!

Trust Gold Star Exterminators with your Texas property's rodent control needs. Since 1979 our customers have been trusting us to solve their pest control problems. We always have and always will deliver prompt pest control services that are reasonable in price. Our professionals take ownership and pride in their work to ensure our customers always receive top-notch services. To learn more about our rodent control options, please reach out to us today!

Proven Tips for Future Rodent Prevention

Take advantage of the following tips to help rodent-proof your Texas property.

• Cut shrubbery and trees back from your home's exterior. Rodents like to use branches as a bridge to your house. 
• Remove tree branches, brush piles, and other debris from your yard.
• Never store firewood or lumber close to your home's exterior.
• Maintain your lawn. 
• Inspect your home's exterior, sealing any holes, cracks, or crevices you discover. 
• Inside your house, store food in glass or metal containers with tight lids. 
• Keep lids on all indoor and outdoor trash cans.
• Regularly vacuum your home to remove stray crumbs from the floor and upholstered furniture. 

Explore Our Helpful Rodent Resources

• The Trick To Getting Rid Of Mice In Your New Braunfels Home
• How To Get Rid Of Mouse Infestations In New Braunfels
• The Key To Keeping Rats Away From Your New Braunfels Home
• Why Professional Rodent Control Is The Way To Go For Your New Braunfels Property
• The Dangers Of Leaving A Rodent Infestation In New Braunfels Untreated