Teg Blog & News

Perhaps you’ve heard the scratching of little mice claws while working in the shed…found the rat droppings behind your gardening tools…or noticed that your prized vegetable garden has been feeding something other than your family. The frustration is real, especially when you’ve spent your time and hard-earned money to create a beautiful outdoor space for your home. It’s time to get rid of those pests once and for all – here’s what to do if there are rodents in your yard. 

Determine the Type of Rodent You’re Dealing With

It can be quite difficult to resolve a problem when you don’t know exactly what is causing it. Look for tell-tale signs around your lawn, garden, and outbuildings to figure out what types of rodents are at the root of the issue. Keep an eye on power lines at dusk and dawn, when rats are prone to run across them. Take note of any droppings you find in outbuildings. Are there tunnels? Mounds in the yard from something burrowing and digging? Check to see where the damage to plants is coming from – smaller rodents will eat near the base and root level, while larger animals like deer or rabbits will chew leaves from the top of plants. Once you know what you’re up against, you can formulate an action plan. 

Remove the Attraction

Rodents are looking for comfort and convenience - take that away, and they’ll likely move on to “greener pastures!” 

• Remove any unnecessary debris from the yard that might give them a nice, cozy place to call home. If you have a wood pile, move it periodically. If you compost, keep it in a sealed container far from your garden. 
• Keep the grass mowed and leaves raked. Tall grass and piles of leaves are the perfect place for rodents to hide as they move from place to place in your yard. 
• Make sure you aren’t feeding them unintentionally! Bird seed gathered under a feeder or pet food left outside makes for an easy meal for a hungry rodent; add in water from sprinklers or the dog’s bowl for refreshment, and they’ve got it made. If you notice holes in your plastic trash cans, switch to metal containers to keep them from snacking on your leftovers. 

Take Action

If removing the conditions that attract rodents doesn’t solve your problem, it’s time to take the next step. Set baited traps, especially along the perimeter of buildings, where they like to scurry from one hiding spot to another. Check for points of entry around your home and outbuildings and seal any openings that you find. As fall and winter approach, rodents are highly likely to seek shelter indoors – so if you don’t want uninvited houseguests, it’s important to address the problem the moment you realize they’re affecting your lawn and garden. 

Rodents are not just destructive to your property – they can carry disease, fleas, ticks, and more that could be harmful to the health and safety of your family. It’s important to get rid of them as soon as possible to limit the damage they could cause. If you want to avoid the hassle of chasing rodents around your yard and reduce the likelihood of recurring problems, contact The Experienced Gardener today to take advantage of professional rodent control services.