Kirk
Chipmunks and squirrels are cute-appearing rodents but ugly pests. They can invade and mess-up a beautiful home, especially during the winter season. They also spread diseases such as Hantavirus, a lung disease that can, in extreme cases, lead to death.
Although homeowners often take action to eliminate rodents, it is a smart move to contact a local pest management professional. It is best to resort to an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to identify, study, prevent and control the problem.
When dealing with rodents, it is important to call an expert. To assure protection against pests, it is crucial to consult an experienced and technically trained professional. Furthermore, efficient tools are needed to ensure protection from destructive pests. Rodents usually start to look for food and safe and warm hiding places in October. Areas of houses usually inhabited by rodents are under the refrigerator, in the garage or in the attic.
Chipmunks gather winter food and keep it in their burrows, stone walls, under bushes or fences. They search for foods such as bird food, pet foods and grass seed in garages. They can be prevented from entering your homes by sealing doors and plugging holes with copper mesh supplied by a pest control company.
Squirrels infest houses in the fall and build nests in attics and high wall voids. Their urine and droppings can damage the structure and they often chew wires, gnaw holes and taint surfaces. The best method of prevention is to cover all entrances of the house with heavy sheet metal or hardware cloth. As they enter the house, they may carry lice, mites and fleas.
