When you stop and think about which cities have the most rat problems, perhaps ones such as Chicago, Detroit, or maybe New York City come to mind. Sad to say, however, Nashville, Tennessee, is also one of the “rattiest” cities in America! According to Orkin, Nashville ranked #29 in 2022, up from #34 just two years prior. Since rats are a common concern in Nashville, let’s take a look at the critters and try to understand why they may be invading our homes and what we can do about it.
About Rodents in Nashville
Rodents are a common problem in many urban cities, including Nashville. Factors such as urbanization, high populations, and availability of food sources attract rodents to urban areas. In Tennessee, the most common type of rodents are Norway rats and roof rats. Norway rats are typically found in basements, crawl spaces, and lower levels of buildings, while roof rats are more commonly found in attics, trees, and above-ground structures. Both species can cause structural damage to homes and buildings by gnawing on electrical wires and causing fires.
Why Rodents Invade Homes
Rodent activity is on the rise. Mice, rats, and other rodents are common visitors in homes during the fall and winter months when they seek warmth and shelter from cold temperatures. Rodents can enter a home through even the smallest of openings, making them difficult to prevent from entering. Therefore, homeowners should be aware of where rodents are likely to invade their homes and how to recognize signs of rodent activity.
Rodents often enter homes near food and water sources, such as kitchens or bathrooms. They may also hide in warm areas like basements, attics, or garages that can access living spaces within the house. Signs of rodent activity include gnaw marks on stored items or baseboards, droppings, sounds in walls or ceilings at night, and tracks or rub marks on floors and walls from greasy fur oils left behind by the animals.
How to Prevent Rodents
- To control the rodent population in Nashville, eliminate food and water sources. This means properly storing food, keeping kitchens and pantries clean, and fixing leaky pipes. It is also recommended to seal buildings' cracks and holes, ensuring that rodents can't enter.
- In addition to these preventive measures, homeowners can use traps and baits to control rodent populations. However, using these products safely and according to the manufacturer's instructions is essential to avoid any potential harm to pets or other wildlife.
- Professional pest control services are also available in Nashville to help control rodent infestations. These companies use a combination of bait stations, traps, and exclusion methods to eliminate the rodents and prevent them from returning.
In conclusion, the problem of rodents in Nashville needs to be taken more seriously. Property owners should not hesitate to call All Pest Solutions when they encounter rodents or signs of infestation. This pest control provider offers various services designed to help rid your home or business of these unwanted pests. The professionals at All Pest Solutions are experienced, reliable, and committed to providing exceptional customer service. In addition, their knowledgeable staff can provide the latest solutions to eliminate rodent populations quickly and safely. Call them today!
