Rodents in the winter: 8 frequently asked questions

Every year, after the leaves fall and the stinging insects start to die off from the cold temperatures, a new pest threat emerges for commercial businesses: rodents. Not only are they a nuisance; but they are also a scurrying red flag and cause for panic for customers when spotted inside an establishment. 

This year in order to help our customers get ahead of a potential infestation during the winter season, one of our Rentokil resident rodent experts (say that three times fast) Emory Matts, answered a few commonly asked questions on rodent behavior and patterns in commercial facilities.

Do rodents hibernate?

Most do not, but a couple of notable ones in North America are ground squirrels and chipmunks.

Which businesses have the most cases of rodent infestations?

That depends on what constitutes an infestation. Rodents are common in retail stores, grocery stores, restaurants etc. although those issues can usually be thoroughly resolved. Places with ongoing or recurrent rodent issues can include agricultural facilities such as feed mills and grain handling facilities.

Which rodents are the biggest issue for commercial businesses in the winter?

This depends on the part of the country. Both rats and mice can be an issue, but mice are by far the most widespread.

Where are some of the main places rodents hide in commercial facilities? 

This depends on the building, geography, rodent species, etc. Mice can hide in walls, in old boxes, and near sources of warmth such as refrigerator motors, computers, etc. Rats and mice will also hide in ceilings such as on top of light fixtures and above coolers. Rodents can be anywhere where it is warm, dry, and relatively isolated/protected within a commercial building.

Are there any differences between rat and mouse behavior patterns in the winter?

Neither likes the cold so they want to get somewhere warm and dry. Roof rats are better at climbing so they may reach areas that may not be obvious nesting sites, such as the insulated ceiling in a large warehouse building.

Can rodents infest commercial vehicles?

They can but it’s not very common unless a vehicle is stored for an extended period of time. If they make their way inside a company vehicle, they can damage a variety of wires and electronics but may not remain with the vehicle.

What can businesses do now to protect their business from rodents entering their facility?

Seal up any holes and gaps large enough for rodents to enter (gaps = 6 mm mice, 12 mm rat; holes (diameter) = 10 mm mice, 20 mm rats). This should be reinforced with a rodent-resistant material and held in place with an appropriate sealant. In addition, to help keep rodents out businesses can work on keeping doors and windows closed, checking items that have been outside for an extended period of time before bringing them inside, keeping trash in closed containers, and cleaning up fruits and nuts from the ground.

Check out our rodent prevention checklists for more helpful tips.

Why is it important to allow professional pest technicians to handle a rodent infestation?

A professional is better equipped to know where, when, and how to apply rodent devices, especially if rodenticide is needed for certain situations. Technicians are trained to find holes and gaps that aren’t always obvious and can provide detailed recommendations on reducing rodent pressures.

If you are having a rodent issue of any variety or size, Rentokil has you covered. Whether you’re a restaurant with a bad rat problem or a hospital with a recent mouse sighting, our expert Technicians have the technical expertise to execute the right solution to free your commercial property from nuisance rodents. 

Learn more about our rodent control solutions today by visiting our website or get in touch with us to get your rodent problem under control.