5 Signs Rodents Have Moved into Your Home This Winter (And How to Get Rid of Them)

Winter in the White Mountains brings cooler temperatures and cozy nights at home, but it also drives rodents like mice and rats indoors. These pests are more than just an annoyance—they can cause significant damage to your property and even pose health risks to your family. Knowing how to spot the signs of a rodent infestation early can help you take swift action to protect your home.

Here are five telltale signs that rodents may have moved into your home this winter and tips on how to get rid of them effectively.

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1. Droppings and Urine Trails

One of the most noticeable signs of rodents in your home is the presence of droppings or urine trails. Rodent droppings are small, dark, and pellet-shaped, and you’ll often find them in places like kitchen cabinets, pantries, or along baseboards. Urine trails, while harder to spot, may emit a musky odor if left untreated.

What to Do:

• Wear gloves and clean the area with disinfectant to avoid spreading bacteria.
• Inspect common rodent hiding spots, such as under sinks, inside cabinets, or near food storage areas.
• Contact Neff Exterminating to address the infestation and prevent it from spreading.

Call us today at (928) 536-6862 or schedule a service.

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2. Gnaw Marks

Rodents have strong teeth that grow continuously, so they’re always gnawing on materials to keep them in check. You may notice chewed wires, wood, insulation, or even plastic containers. These gnaw marks can create safety hazards, such as the risk of electrical fires.

What to Do:

• Look for chew marks on baseboards, furniture, and stored items.
• Inspect electrical wiring and plumbing for signs of damage.
• Schedule a professional inspection to ensure no hidden hazards are present.

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3. Scratching and Scurrying Sounds

Hearing scratching, squeaking, or scurrying noises—especially at night—is a strong indicator that rodents are active in your home. These sounds often come from behind walls, in attics, or under floorboards.

What to Do:

• Identify where the noises are coming from to pinpoint areas of rodent activity.
• Avoid setting DIY traps in hard-to-reach spaces where they could become difficult to retrieve.
• Trust Neff Exterminating to locate and remove the rodents safely and effectively.

Protect your home today by contacting Neff Exterminating at (928) 536-6862 or reaching out online.

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4. Nesting Materials

Rodents build nests using shredded paper, fabric, or insulation. If you come across small piles of these materials, particularly in storage areas or hidden corners, it’s a clear sign of a rodent problem.

What to Do:

• Remove nesting materials carefully while wearing protective gloves and a mask.
• Vacuum and disinfect the area to remove lingering bacteria or allergens.
• Contact Neff Exterminating to inspect for additional nests and eliminate the infestation.

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5. Strange Odors

Rodents often leave behind a strong, musky smell caused by their droppings, urine, or nesting materials. If an infestation is severe, the odor may spread to different areas of your home.

What to Do:

• Ventilate the area to reduce odors.
• Inspect enclosed spaces like cabinets, attics, and crawl spaces for signs of activity.
• Schedule a professional pest control service to address the source of the odor.

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How to Get Rid of Rodents in the White Mountains

If you suspect rodents have invaded your home, taking immediate action is critical to prevent further damage. Here are the steps to eliminate rodents effectively:

1. Seal Entry Points

Rodents can squeeze through tiny gaps, so inspecting and sealing entry points is crucial. Use caulk, steel wool, or weatherstripping to close gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines.

2. Remove Food and Water Sources

• Store food in airtight containers and clean up spills promptly.
• Fix leaky faucets and remove standing water.
• Ensure pet food is not left out overnight.

3. Set Traps or Baits

• Use snap traps, glue traps, or bait stations in areas where rodent activity has been observed.
• Place traps along walls, under sinks, and in attics.

4. Hire Professional Pest Control

While DIY methods can help, they’re often not enough to eliminate an infestation completely. Professional pest control services provide thorough inspections, targeted treatments, and long-term prevention.

Contact Neff Exterminating at (928) 536-6862 or request a service online.

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Prevent Rodents from Returning

The best way to deal with rodents is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Here are some tips for keeping your home rodent-free:

• Declutter Storage Areas: Organize basements, attics, and garages to eliminate hiding spots.
• Inspect Regularly: Look for signs of rodent activity throughout the year.
• Maintain a Clean Home: Regular cleaning minimizes food sources that attract pests.
• Schedule Routine Pest Control: Regular services from Neff Exterminating ensure your home stays protected year-round.

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Keep Your Home Rodent-Free This Winter

Rodents can cause serious problems if left unchecked, but with early detection and professional help, you can protect your home and family. Neff Exterminating provides comprehensive pest control solutions to homes and businesses across the White Mountains, ensuring your property stays safe and pest-free.

Call us today at (928) 536-6862
Request service online here

Don’t let rodents disrupt your winter—trust Neff Exterminating to provide the protection and peace of mind you deserve.