Texans: Are You Aware of What’s Living in Your Attic Right Now?

Winter Warning: Keep Rodents Out Now Before Snakes Follow in Spring

As we head into the coldest part of winter, it’s time to take action against unwanted house guests, and rodents. I recently discovered a few bird and mouse droppings in my attic while changing my air conditioner filter, and it was a stark reminder that mice and other critters are seeking warmth inside our homes, storage sheds, and buildings.

While a rodent infestation is bad enough, the real nightmare begins in the spring when snakes become more active. Where mice go, snakes follow, because mice are on the menu. That’s why NOW is the time to make sure these pests don’t take up residence in your home.

How Mice Sneak In, and Why You Don’t Want Them

Mice can squeeze through a hole as small as a dime. Yes, you read that right! To prove this, I’m including a video below that shows just how tiny of a space a mouse needs to enter your home. If you think your house is sealed tight, you might want to double-check, because even the smallest openings can be an open invitation for these pests.

Mice and other rodents bring more than just the risk of snakes, they can chew through electrical wiring, posing a serious fire hazard. They also carry fleas and diseases that can be harmful to your family. And let’s not forget about squirrels, another type of rodent, which can also invade your attic and cause significant damage.

Essential Tips to Keep Rodents Out This Winter

1. Store food properly and clean up after cooking – Mice are attracted to food crumbs and open food containers. Make sure everything is sealed and your counters are wiped clean.
2. Inspect and seal any cracks or openings – Check your home’s foundation, attic, and walls for any small holes or entry points. Use steel wool or caulk to seal them up.
3. Keep your home rodent-proof year-round – Even if you don’t see evidence of mice now, they could be hiding in your attic, garage, or walls. Prevention is key to avoiding an infestation. Source: Allstate Trapping

My Personal Experience: Why Prevention is Crucial

I learned the hard way that rodents aren’t just annoying, they bring bigger problems. A few years ago, we had to replace our built-in oven. When the appliance man pulled out the old unit, he showed me what was in the wall behind the 'built-in-oven': a well-cooked, very dead 4-foot Texas bullsnake.

Now, bullsnakes are non-venomous, but that doesn’t make them a welcomed house guest. And what brought the snake into my home? The mice it was hunting. That’s why I take rodent prevention seriously every winter because if you let mice settle in now, you could have snakes slithering in come spring.

So as we bundle up for winter, let’s make sure our homes aren’t inviting in pests looking for warmth. Seal up those dime-sized holes, clear out any droppings, and stay ahead of the problem. Because trust me, you don’t want to find out the hard way what’s lurking behind your appliances or in your attic.