With cooler weather right around the corner homeowners in Minneapolis- St. Paul, Lincoln NE and across the region should be aware that unless they take precautions they may have a house guest or two over the winter. While many of us don’t mind an occasional visit from a good friend or family member we may object to sharing our homes with mice who are seeking relief from the colder weather. Mice, while they seem harmless, are actually a nuisance and dangerous pest problem to experience. Mouse damage often includes:
- Chewed electrical wiring, mattresses and furniture
- Torn or contaminate insulation in wall and ceilings
- Stains from urine and droppings
- Holes in drywall, wall and other areas
- Store people and pet food in containers preferably made of metal or glass
- De-Clutter your garage, basement or storage area
- Keep boxes, clothes and other items that are great nesting material picked up
- Don’t leave pet food outside for any length of time
- Keep trash in tightly sealed containers
- Remove bird feeders
- Trim shrubs, weeds and plants away from the foundation
- Screen vents and install chimney caps
- Repair or replace damaged or torn screens in windows and doors
- Seal any foundation cracks or openings that are larger than ¼ inch including areas where utilities and pipes enter
- Remove any abandoned items from your yard
- Move firewood off the ground and several feet away from the home
- Check your yard often and pick up any fallen fruit or nuts
