Menu
How to keep rats out of your yard
When dealing with a yard infested by rodents, it’s just a matter of time before they find their way indoors. While preventing an outdoor infestation may seem challenging, proper preparation can help keep rats out of your yard, and subsequently, your home. To effectively deter rodents from your yard, concentrate on:
- Landscaping Maintenance: Regularly maintain your landscape to eliminate hiding spots and potential nesting areas.
- Trash and Food Cleanup: Always promptly remove trash and leftover food from your yard to remove enticing food sources.
- Woodpile Placement: Relocate woodpiles away from your home, reducing potential nesting sites near your living space.
- Structural Maintenance: Ensure sheds and other structures are well-maintained to prevent rodents from finding shelter within them.
By addressing these factors, you can significantly reduce the risk of a yard infestation and the subsequent entry of rodents into your home.
Why Are There Rats in my Yard?
Rats may be present in your yard for several reasons:
- Food Sources: Rats are attracted to food, so if there’s easily accessible trash, bird feeders, pet food, or unsecured compost, they’ll be drawn to your yard.
- Shelter: Yards with overgrown vegetation, clutter, or neglected structures like sheds provide hiding spots and potential nesting sites for rats.
- Water: Rats need water sources, so leaky hoses, birdbaths, or standing water can attract them.
- Adjacent Habitats: Proximity to rat-friendly habitats like sewers, drainage systems, or wooded areas can make your yard appealing to rodents.
- Neighboring Infestations: Nearby rat infestations in neighboring properties can lead rats to venture into your yard.
- Seasonal Movements: Rats may temporarily seek shelter in yards during extreme weather conditions or while searching for new nesting sites.
To mitigate the presence of rats in your yard, address these factors by securing food sources, maintaining cleanliness, reducing shelter options, and eliminating access to water.
Do You Have a Rodent Problem? We Can Help.
Click the button below to leave your information & we'll be in touch in an hour or less.
How to Keep Rats Out of Your Car
It may come as a surprise, but rodents can find their way into your car, especially during the winter when they seek warmth and shelter. If you discover droppings or an unpleasant odor from the engine compartment, it’s advisable to contact a licensed professional for removal.
To prevent rats or mice from accessing your car in the first place, consider these preventive measures:
- Cleanliness: Keep your car clean and clutter-free. Remove trash, food crumbs, and debris from the interior.
- Secure Food: Avoid leaving food or food containers in your car. Even small crumbs can attract rodents.
- Inspect Engine Compartment: Regularly check your engine compartment for signs of rat nesting, chewed wires, or droppings. Rats may seek warmth and shelter there.
- Rodent Repellents: Consider using rodent-repellent products like ultrasonic devices or natural repellents like peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls.
- Park Strategically: Choose well-lit and open parking spots when possible. Avoid parking near dumpsters or in areas known for rat activity.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your garage or parking area for openings and seal them to prevent rats from entering.
- Traps: Place rodent traps near your car, especially if you suspect rat activity. Check and empty traps regularly.
- Regular Usage: Drive your car regularly. Rats are less likely to make nests in vehicles that are frequently used.
By following these tips, you can reduce the likelihood of rodents taking up residence in your car.
Best Way to Get Rodents Out of Your Yard
Dealing with outdoor infestations can be exceptionally challenging due to limited control over the surrounding environment. While there are measures to deter rodents from your property, the most effective way to keep rats and mice out of your yard is through professional rodent control.
For assistance with issues like rats in your garden or safeguarding your outdoor space, rely on Arrow Exterminating. Our licensed exterminators have been serving the Long Island community for over 75 years, employing industry-leading practices to ensure lasting results. Contact us to discover more or initiate the process!
