Jan 16, 2017, 13:54 PM by Fred Speer

Pest Control Technology magazine recently identified mice as the most problematic rodent species in the United States.

In its recent State of the Rodent Market Report, the magazine asked pest management professionals what rodent species tended to be most problematic in their market area. The house mouse topped the list, with 71 percent of respondents giving it the nod. Coming in second was the Norway rat at 48percent, followed by the roof rat at 38 percent.

Let’s face it: rodents are opportunists. They will wait patiently to identify the easiest way to gain access inside your home, whether it’s through a quarter-size hole in the foundation or inside a rolled-up sleeping bag that had been stored in the garage.

Even though rodents are crafty, don’t despair. There are preventive measures that you and your neighbors can take to keep rodents out. By partnering with Clark Pest Control on a comprehensive rodent management initiative, together we can prevent rodents (and other pests) from threatening your homes and neighborhood.

Here are some simple rodent-proofing tips from the Clark Man to help keep unwanted rodents out of your house this year:

• Seal vents and access points along the roof line, eaves, and attic

• Eliminate clutter in garages or storage areas

• Remove clutter around your property, including wood piles, leaves, and landscape debris

• Don’t leave pet food bowls unattended or out overnight

• Store dried bulk foods, pet food, and birdseed in sealed plastic containers

• Keep rodents out with physical barriers; install door sweeps and screens on doors and windows

• Block gaps around utility pipes and wires with rodent-control fill fabric; mice and rats only need a quarter- to half-inch gap to enter

• Block and seal any holes in the foundation and walls

• Trim tree branches and landscape plants so they are not in contact with your home

• Store garbage and recycling receptacles away from the home and keep them securely covered

If you and your neighbors have seen rodents or signs of rodent activity around your home or neighborhood, call or text (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or drop us an email at clarkcares@clarkpest.com. We’ll answer your rodent questions and design a customized rodent control program that works best for you.

Until next time, I’m the Clark Man, and thanks for helping me keep unwanted pests out of your home.