Are you bothered by scurrying sounds in the quiet of the night, or perhaps you’ve noticed some unique nibble marks on your pantry goods?

These are hallmark signs of unwelcome guests – rodents. There are many misconceptions about these invasive critters that can muddy the waters, leading to ineffective home management policies. But don’t worry!

In this blog, we will help you distinguish fact from fiction and empower you to tackle the pest problem effectively. We will debunk common myths about rodents, provide you with practical signs for identifying their presence, and demonstrate why Truly Nolen in Toronto is just the right outfit for your pest removal needs.

So, gear up for an informative and interesting read, and reach out to us to learn more. Let’s unveil the truth about rodent removal in Toronto!

What Are The Common Myths About Rodents In Homes?

Many homeowners in Toronto have misconceptions about the rodents dwelling in their apartments and houses. Here are a few possibly misleading beliefs you might possess and the factual information to debunk them:

• Myth 1: Rats and mice aren’t dangerous—they’re just pesky

Contrary to popular belief, rodents are not merely a mild nuisance. They can pose significant health risks. Rats and mice can carry and transmit a variety of diseases to humans, such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and even plague. Also, they can cause serious damage to your property by gnawing on various materials—be it wood, insulation, or electrical wiring. Needless to say, their droppings and urine are not a pleasant sight either.

In addition to their disease-carrying potential, they have a knack for rapid reproduction. This ability fuels rapid infestation growth that can easily spiral out of control if not dealt with quickly and effectively. An average female mouse, for instance, can birth up to six litters in a year—with each litter containing five to six offspring. Hence, if ignored, a seemingly small rodent issue can transform into a full-blown infestation within a very short period.

Also, rats and mice are highly intelligent creatures, capable of adapting to various environments and conditions. They are excellent climbers and swimmers, with the ability to squeeze through incredibly small spaces to gain access to your house. Simply put, they can find their way inside even the most fortified homes, which makes pest removal in Toronto a task best left to professionals.

A lot of homeowners tend to underestimate the acumen of these pests and often resort to DIY pest control methods. Unfortunately, such attempts, more often than not, prove to be futile. Besides not being as effective, these methods don’t offer a long-term solution and do little to prevent future infestations. An initial reduction in rodent sightings might give the illusion of success, but it might be just the proverbial calm before the storm without professional extermination near you.

• Myth 2: If you can’t see them, you don’t have them

Rodents are notoriously elusive creatures. They prefer to stay hidden and mostly venture out at night when the chances of being spotted are low. Therefore, not seeing a mouse or rat doesn’t guarantee their absence. You should be aware of other signs of their presence, such as gnaw marks, droppings, or noises like scratching and scampering.

One of the ways to definitively confirm an infestation is by paying attention to your environment. Rats have a distinct musty odour. If there’s a sudden, unexplainable bad smell in your home, it might just be that there are many scurrying around. This smell is usually stronger in areas where the creatures nest or inhabit frequently, such as attics, basements, or behind walls and appliances.

Aside from smells and noises, watch out for gnaw marks. Rodents have sharp teeth and a strong urge to chew, often leaving behind recognizable signs. If you notice gnawing on wood, furniture, food packaging, or even electrical wires, don’t dismiss it as trivial. These signs emphasize the need for immediate pest removal in Toronto to prevent extensive damage to your property.

• Myth 3: Cats are an effective rodent control strategy

While cats may occasionally catch a mouse or a rat, they have little to no significant effect on a genuine infestation; mice breed too fast for cats to keep up. Additionally, some rodents, particularly larger rats, are not easily intimidated by cats.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to acknowledge that relying on a pet for effective removal is ill-advised due to health implications. Rodents can carry various diseases, which could cause serious health problems in both humans and pets.

Moreover, they can bring fleas, ticks and mites into your homes, posing an even greater health risk. If these parasites latch onto your feline friends, it can lead to conditions like Lyme disease or cat scratch fever. By exposing your cat to potential infestations, you’re inadvertently putting their health at risk along with your own.

Rodents are also highly skilled at evading predators, often hiding in small crevices within walls or basements. This tendency makes them harder for cats to catch and increases the chances of them dying in hidden areas, causing unpleasant odours and potential biohazardous conditions. Quite evidently, “extermination near me” is not a job you should entrust to your furry friend.

• Myth 4: Cheese is the best bait for rat traps

Rats are more omnivorous than you might think. While they can be attracted to cheese, they often prefer foods high in sugar or protein. Think along the lines of peanut butter, bacon, or even chocolate.

It’s important to understand that rats and mice, adapt quickly and become quite shrewd when it comes to recognizing things out of the ordinary in their environment. This includes the scent or presence of various baits. They may even become “trap shy” if they associate a specific food with a danger, such as a trap.

Instead of using food to trap rodents, focusing on keeping your surroundings clean to minimize sources of food and shelter is critical. Be mindful of open food containers, unattended pet food, and accumulated garbage as these can all be irresistible attractions. Furthermore, close potential entry points that rodents might utilize to gain access into your home, such as gaps or cracks in the walls, foundations, or roofs.

How Do Mice and Rats Typically Enter Homes In Toronto?

Most people are under the misconception that mice and rats only invade messy houses. While cleanliness can indeed deter them, it certainly doesn’t render your home impervious to these crafty creatures.

Rodents are primarily nocturnal creatures, meaning they’re most active when you’re deep in sleep. Just because you don’t see them doesn’t mean they’re not there. They can enter well-sealed homes. These tiny creatures can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter of an inch. They can chew through softer materials like rubber and plastic, effectively creating their own entrance. Ensuring there are no openings or cracks in your home’s structure is crucial in pest prevention.

What Are The Signs Of An Infestation In A Home?

Some key signs of an infestation include unusual noises, evidence of gnawing, droppings, and damaged food packages. Unlike the usual myth, rodents aren’t just night creatures. They are active both day and night, so discovering some during the daytime does not necessarily mean a large-scale infestation.

1. Noises: They create a variety of noises in your home. Depending on their nesting location, you may hear scratching, running, or even gnawing sounds from your ceilings, walls, and floors.
2. Gnaw marks: One of the biggest clues to thier presence is gnaw marks found on furniture, pantry boxes, or coverings of electrical wires. These gnaw marks can indicate both recent and old infestations.
3. Droppings: More often than not, you’re likely to find droppings in your drawers, cabinets, or any place that seems secluded. Mouse droppings are small, about 1/8 inch, while rat droppings are significantly larger, about 1/2 inch.
4. Nests: Rodents love to nest in secluded, warm places. Their preferred nesting locations are unused corners of a garage, attic, or basement. They build their nests using shredded paper, fabric, or dried plant matter.

Tackling Mice and Rat Infestations

Knowing is half the battle when it comes to preventing a pest infestation. With many misconceptions out there, many homeowners believe they’re safe from rodents when they might have an infestation brewing.

• Keeping a clean house is important, but don’t forget to plug holes, gaps, or cracks that can serve as entry points.
• Paying attention to signs such as scratching noises, droppings, or even unusual pet behaviour can tip you off to a potential infestation.

Choose Truly Nolen Pest Control For Your Extermination Needs

Now that we’ve debunked some of the major myths, it’s time to consider professional pest removal in Toronto. Companies like Truly Nolen Canada are experienced and equipped to handle your rodent problem effectively. Remember, timely intervention is essential in preserving your home’s hygiene and structural integrity.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have noticed signs of rodent infestation in your home. With the keyword “extermination near me,” you’ll quickly find their expert services. Remember, a small pest issue can quickly become larger, so acting promptly is always wise.

Contact Truly Nolen in Toronto to learn more about how we can help you maintain a rodent-free home. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are equipped and ready to answer any queries you may have about pest prevention and removal.