New Castle County County, Wilmington Rat Control Situation:
Hi David, I rent an apartment in Wilmington DE and have consistent mouse problems. It started with a mouse in the beginning of the year- I set all types of traps (snapping, glue, poison) and it would only eat the peanut butter and not get caught. Finally it was caught, but again I have a mouse and all the different traps that are out are only feeding it. I know the only real way to stop them is to close off all points of access, but living in an old apartment building and having landlords who've stopped caring about all the mice problems makes it harder. My neighbors also have mice problems and I think they're traveling between apartments. I obviously cant secure every hole, but I can at least try with my place. Would stuffing the holes with mesh wire then covering it with caulking work? I'm not sure how to finish off the holes. Also if you have any insight on how to deal with these renter vs. landlord situations, I'm all ears. Thanks for listening, Dianna
Hello, Attached are 2 photos of what I think are from a wood rat. My family owns a large cabin in the middle of 260 wooded acres. The ground around the cabin has been cleared for years. In the past we only had mice to control, but now we have critters that we cannot control. We place rat/mice poison in 3 areas. They eat it all within 2 weeks. There is lots of poop right around the poison trays. Now the critter is eating part of the sofa and has knocked a lamp over. We have had flying squirrels and wood rats in the past. But they ate the poison and died. Not the case now. What do you suggest? We put moth balls under the cabin and the attic appears not to be an issue. We cannot find where they are coming in. VERY frustrating. Can you help?? Thank you. I have to forward the pictures from my computer.
Wilmington Rat Control Tip of The Week
How Can I Receive Free Rat Removal?
Rat proliferation has become a real headache. Over time, they multiply and can affect our lives in very negative ways. They are a vehicle for germs and bacteria, as well as various diseases that could be fatal.
An Unwanted Visitor Who Has Come To Stay
Even if you have the most rigorous cleaning and hygiene methods at home, in warehouses or food sales sites (supermarkets or restaurants), the slightest hole exposes us completely to this unwanted visitor. Rats are flexible, agile, and by nature prowling, so if they get the chance, they will come in and soon invite their whole family to stay in your home.
Ways To Get Rid Of Them
Rats are very fertile animals; in a matter of 21 to 24 days, a rat can have 5 to 15 pups, which will reach sexual maturity after 4 or 5 weeks. Can you imagine the speed of their reproduction?
You can follow these tips:- Keep all areas clean and totally free of crumbs.
- Keep garbage tightly closed at night.
- Make sure there are no cracks, holes, or any other entrances that will allow them to enter.
- Keep any water outlets closed with their grids.
- Do not leave dry food within reach of these animals.
But... What Happens If The Situation Exceeds My Abilities To Exterminate This Pest?
It is always best to go to the experts in rat extermination, but each town has a public health and sanitation system, which is responsible for keeping pests under control.
You can ask for an inspection, and they will determine if it is a public health problem. Prevention and hygiene will always be the best methods to avoid contact with these animals that cause so many diseases.