Why Trapping Alone Doesn't Work
Trapping removes individual animals but does not address why they entered or how. Without exclusion — sealing entry points — new rodents replace those removed within weeks.
Exterior Exclusion Checklist
Inspect the roofline for open soffits and gaps at fascia. Check utility penetrations where pipes and wires enter the structure. Inspect garage doors for bottom seal integrity and daylight at corners. Look at vents, dryer exhaust covers, and weep holes.
Yard Conditions That Attract Rodents
Dense groundcover, fruit-bearing trees, outdoor pet food, unsecured compost bins, and firewood stacked against the structure all attract and shelter rodents near the home.
Interior Checks
Inspect under sinks, around water heaters, inside cabinets, and in attic access areas for droppings, gnaw marks, and rub marks. These signs indicate active movement and help identify entry paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
How small a gap can a rat fit through?
Rats can fit through gaps as small as half an inch. Mice can fit through even smaller openings. Any gap that allows airflow is a potential entry point.
Should I use poison inside the home?
Interior rodenticide use carries risks of secondary poisoning and odor issues if rodents die in walls. Exclusion and trapping are preferred for interior management.
How long does exclusion take to work?
Once entry points are sealed, new activity typically stops quickly. Existing rodents inside are handled with traps placed at active areas.
Local Help in Central Texas
Vector 1 Pest Control provides rodent exclusion and control services across Travis and Williamson County. Call (512) 652-6300.