The Scratching in the Walls: Are Rodents Invading Your Cornish Home for Autumn?

The Scratching in the Walls: Are Rodents Invading Your Cornish Home for Autumn?

As the balmy Cornish summer gives way to the cooler, wetter days of autumn, we aren't the only ones seeking the warmth and comfort of home. Rodents, such as rats and mice, are masters of survival, and as their outdoor food sources dwindle, your property becomes a five-star hotel, offering shelter, warmth, and food.

Hearing a strange scratch or scuttling sound in the night can be unsettling. At Cornwall PestXpert Solutions, we know that where there is one rodent, more are sure to follow. Here’s how to tell if you have unwanted tenants.

Cornwall's Prime Suspects: Rat or Mouse?

Knowing your intruder helps in tackling the problem. In Cornwall, you’re most likely to encounter:

• The Brown Rat: A large, robust rodent that often prefers lower levels of a house, such as basements, drains, or ground floors.

• The House Mouse: Small and inquisitive, mice are excellent climbers and can be found anywhere in a property, from the loft to the kitchen cupboards.

Telltale Signs You Have Rodents (That Aren't Just Sightings)

Rodents are cautious, nocturnal creatures, so you are far more likely to see the evidence they leave behind than the culprits themselves. Look for this checklist of signs:

• Droppings: The most obvious sign. Rat droppings are dark brown and shaped like a tic-tac (about 1-2 cm long). Mouse droppings are smaller, black, and resemble grains of rice.

• Gnaw Marks: Rodents' teeth grow constantly, so they must gnaw to wear them down. Look for teeth marks on wood, skirting boards, cables, and even soft metals.

• Smear Marks: Rats and mice tend to use the same routes along walls. Over time, the grease and dirt from their fur leave dark, greasy smudges, particularly around corners and holes.

• Nests: Mice shred soft materials like paper, cardboard, and fabric to create nests in warm, hidden places like behind fridges or in lofts.

• Noises: Scurrying, scratching, or squeaking sounds coming from within walls, under floorboards, or in ceilings, especially at night.

More Than Just a Nuisance

A rodent infestation is a serious issue. They can spread diseases like Leptospirosis and Salmonella through their urine and droppings. Furthermore, their habit of gnawing on electrical wires is a recognised fire hazard, posing a significant risk to your property and family.

Suspect rodents? Don't ignore the signs. Contact Cornwall PestXpert Solutions for a thorough inspection and a comprehensive rodent control plan to make your home safe and secure.