Pest control experts fear rodent infestations could rise sharply over the coming weeks and have urged the public to keep an eye out for any signs of mice and rats.
Rentokil's technicians saw a big increase in callouts for rodents during the August to October period, up 50% on last year. They have warned that during the cold winter period, pests such as rodents and insects may look to enter people’s homes and business premises in search of food, shelter and warmth.
The pest control provider explained that tell-tale signs of rodents to watch out for include shredded loft insulation, chewed items or concentrations of droppings, which look like large brown spindles. A rat can produce up to 40 droppings a night, and they will often be found in the corners of rooms or boxes.
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Other pest insects including cockroaches and fleas can invade households at this time of year. Rentokil said that as pest insects can be difficult to detect, home and business owners may be experiencing an infestation and be completely unaware of it.
Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant with Rentokil, said: “Christmas time brings with it a number of unique pest control challenges. Plummeting temperatures outside, and an abundance of food and warmth indoors, create attractive conditions for rodents and insects as they search for shelter and sustenance.
"Rentokil is advising the public to be particularly cautious and diligent to help guard against unwanted pest guests this festive season, and following a few simple steps could help.”
Here are Rentokil’s top tips for the festive season:
- "Open boxes of decorations outside and inspect them for any signs of insects or rodents, before bringing them indoors. When finished with them, store them in a sealed storage box, ready for next year.
- "Inspect your tree carefully before you bring it indoors, as both real and artificial Christmas trees can be perfect nesting place for insects. Shake your tree vigorously outdoors so that any insects or their eggs are shaken loose.
- "If you have edible treats such as gingerbread people, chocolate coins, and candy canes as Christmas tree decorations, then be sure to keep an eye on them to check they have not been nibbled, or better still avoid using them altogether.
- "Ideally, keep sweets, chocolate and other festive edibles in sealed containers.
- "Clean up all Christmas dinner leftovers, food debris, and spillages to prevent a potential food source for rodents and insects.
- "Keep foodstuffs in metal or glass containers with tight fitting lids and put outdoor rubbish bags in metal bins, with securely fitted lids, to stop pest insects or rodents from feeding on the contents.
- "Dispose of any clutter in the form of Christmas gift wrapping and packaging, to limit potential hiding places for pests."
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