Be prepared!

As the seasons shift, so do the types of pests that can become problematic. Rats and mice are particularly successful pest species due to their ability to thrive alongside humans and exploit our environments.

Like all living creatures, rodents seek out food, water and shelter. During colder, wetter months, these resources become scarcer outdoors, prompting rodents to move closer to homes and businesses where warmth, shelter and food are more readily available.

Rodents are typically most active at dawn and dusk. Frequent sightings during daylight hours may indicate a large population or a disturbance to their usual nesting areas.

Signs of a rodent infestation

1. Sightings: seeing even one rodent is a strong indicator that others are nearby. This should prompt immediate action.

2. Odour: rodents emit a distinctive stale smell, especially noticeable in rarely used areas.

3. Droppings: rats can produce up to 40 droppings per day, and mice up to 80. These quickly accumulate and become visible.

4. Trails and Smear Marks: rats often follow the same paths, leaving behind smooth trails in dust or grass. Greasy smear marks may appear where their fur rubs against surfaces.

5. Damage: rodents gnaw constantly, leaving behind teeth marks, holes and damage to building structures or stored goods.

What actions should be taken if you spot an infestation?

1. Maintain cleanliness: keep both indoor and outdoor areas free from waste and clutter that could provide shelter for pests.

2. Seal entry points: inspect and seal gaps around doors, pipes, vents, extraction systems, toilets, sewers and roofs to prevent access.

3. Enhance cleaning and staff awareness: maintain regular cleaning schedules and train staff to spot signs of infestation. Rodent droppings and urine can carry serious diseases. Local authorities may prosecute or close premises that pose health risks.

4. Manage stock and equipment wisely: avoid overstocking, which can hide signs of infestation. Ensure stock is stored in a way that allows for easy cleaning and inspection. Any redundant equipment should be removed to aid in cleaning and the identification of pests.

5. Seek professional help: if you suspect an infestation, contact a pest control expert for advice or a site survey.

6. Report neighbouring issues: if the problem originates from a neighbouring property and they are not addressing it, contact your local Environmental Health team for support or guidance.

For further advice, the following organisations offer valuable resources:

● National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA)

● British Pest Control Association (BPCA)

Important legal update: glue boards ban

As of 31 July 2024, the use of glue boards for rodent control is banned in England, except under strict licensing conditions. This change follows the introduction of the Glue Traps (Offences) Act 2022, which aims to eliminate the use of these inhumane traps due to the prolonged suffering they cause to rodents and the risk they pose to pets and wildlife. Licences will only be granted to professional pest controllers in exceptional circumstances where no other effective control methods are viable. Businesses and individuals must not use glue boards unless they are licensed, and unauthorised use may result in enforcement action. For more information, visit the British Pest Control Association (BPCA). [bpca.org.uk]