When Midwest temperatures drop, rodents head inside. Unfortunately, your home might be their ideal winter hideaway. If you’re hearing scratching in the walls, spotting droppings under the sink, or wondering why your dog keeps sniffing one particular corner of the basement, you may be dealing with a rat or mouse infestation.
Thousands of homeowners across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, and beyond are dealing with the same thing. To help you out this winter, let’s walk through what signs to look for, why they’re in your house, and how to kick rodents out for good.
Rats & Mice: What Kind of Rodents are in My House?
If you have a Midwest rodent infestation, you’re likely dealing with: If you have a Midwest rodent infestation, you’re likely dealing with:
- House mice: Small, dusty gray or light brown, and adapted to living indoors
- Deer mice: More common in rural areas, with brown backs and white bellies
- Norway rats: Large and heavy-bodied, often found in basements
Now, let's take a closer look at how these rodents behave in winter.
What You Need to Know About Rats in Winter
Where Do Rats Go in the Winter?
Rats are survivors. Outdoors, they dig burrows or take shelter in outbuildings. But in the Midwest, they often find their way indoors when the weather turns cold. They squeeze into hidden areas like wall voids, crawl spaces, garages, and attics, looking for food and warmth.
If they find access—and a reason to stay—they’ll settle in for the season.
What are the signs of a rat infestation?
If you have rats in your home, you’ll likely notice:
- Droppings (small, dark pellets)Droppings (small, dark pellets)
- Scratching or scurrying noises, especially at night
- Chewed food packages or wiring
- Nests made of shredded paper or insulation
- Grease marks along baseboards or wall corners
Can I Use DIY Rat Poison or Live Bait Traps?
Yes, but there are important caveats. DIY methods like rat poison or live traps can work for small infestations, especially when used correctly. However, they also come with limitations and risks. Poison can be dangerous in homes with pets or children, and if rats die in hard-to-reach areas, they can create odor issues or attract other pests.
Live bait traps are a safer, more targeted option, but placement is critical. Rats tend to follow walls and edges, so traps should be placed along these common travel routes. Always use gloves when handling traps or bait, and rotate bait types to maintain interest.
That said, DIY solutions often fall short. They rarely address how or why rodents are getting inside. For long-term success, the best solution is professional help. The experts at Plunkett’s can identify entry points, seal them off, and implement a customized treatment plan that actually solves the problem.
What You Need to Know About Mice in Winter
Why are there Mice in My House in Winter?
Your home is an easy target because it has everything mice want: food, shelter, and warmth. Plus, mice can fit through holes as small as a dime, so it doesn’t take much for them to sneak inside.
How are Mice Getting in My House?
Common entry points include utility line gaps, dryer vents, poorly sealed garage doors, and small cracks in the foundation. Once inside, they head for hidden, warm areas such as behind the fridge, under cabinets, or inside insulation.
How Do I Prevent a Mouse Infestation in My House?
If possible, avoid the hassle of a rodent problem altogether. To prevent a pest infestation, start by cutting off access to food and shelter:
- Store all food in sealed containers
- Clean up crumbs, spills, and clutter
- Check for nesting sites behind appliances and under sinks
- Caulk cracks and gaps in the foundation and siding
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
- Screen vents and chimneys
- Store pet food in airtight containers
- Trim trees and shrubs that touch the house
If you think you already have a mouse infestation in your home, give Plunkett’s a call.
What If I’ve Tried Everything and Still Have Rodents?
If you’ve sealed the gaps, set the traps, and cleaned like crazy and you still have mice or rats in your home, it’s definitely time for professional pest control help.
Plunkett’s offers customized rodent solutions. Our technicians know how to track down even the most elusive rodents and remove them effectively. Whether you need help now or want to prevent future infestations, our services include:
- Inspection and exclusion of entry points Inspection and exclusion of entry points
- Rodent-proofing and structural recommendations
- Ongoing treatment plans like our HomeGuard program
- Support from trusted, local experts near you
Get Started With Local Rodent Pest Control
Plunkett’s is family-owned and rooted in the Midwest. Our trained professionals use science-based methods and old fashioned know-how to solve rodent problems at the source. We’re prepared to get rid of a rat infestation, prevent a mouse infestation, and everything in between. Call us or schedule a service online!
