Rodents aren’t picky about where they take up residence. They can be found in well-maintained homes, yards with overgrown vegetation, and homes with cluttered living spaces. As long as they have water, shelter and food, rats will survive.

The key to avoiding a  rodent infestation is identifying signs of rodent activity and taking corrective actions in a timely manner.

Here are five simple ways to discourage rodents from making your home their home:

• Rats can enter homes through very small openings, about the size of a quarter. Routinely check around the exterior of your home and seal any openings larger than ¼ inch to exclude rats and mice.
• Trim tree limbs at least four feet from the roof and walls of the house to keep rats from accessing the roof.
• Do not overfeed birds or chickens. Clean up spilled feed from the ground.
• Use a fully-enclosed and elevated tumbling bin for compost.
• Do not feed pets outdoors or leave uneaten pet food outside.

Learn more about rat prevention and control https://www.msmosquito.org/rats