The Noises You Hear May Be Mice or Rats! Particularly in the winter, as the weather turns cold, humans aren't the only creatures who gravitate indoors. Commensal rodents (rodents living in close proximity to man) want to stay warm. Civilization has replaced much of nature's winter shelter--sage and scrub oak--with insulated, climate-controlled houses. But rodents don't mind. Now they have a steady supply of food and water! The only thing missing is an engraved invitation.< These uninvited guests love the arrangement. Their hosts do not. Rodents are disease carriers that transmit through urine and droppings--their calling card. Their propensity for gnawing is another undesirable trait. It helps satisfy their extreme curiosity about electrical wires, plumbing, clothing and just about anything they can get their teeth sunk around. Like miniature Olympians, rats can jump approximately five feet horizontally and three to four feet vertically. A full-grown rat can fit through a hole the size of a quarter and a mouse one the size of a dime. Rats are excellent swimmers. They easily climb textured surfaces such as stucco. These mighty athletes are shy and prefer staying "under cover". Southern California homes surrounded by dense foliage are the perfect refuge. Rodent infestations often occur through the roof system. Trim any trees, shrubs or vines away from the roof and eaves. Seal any openings in the roof or eave line. Eliminate any rodent havens close to the house. Install metal door sweeps on exterior doors. Caulk accesses for air conditioner lines, sprinkler systems, plumbing, electrical panels. Repair broken pipes. All exterior openings should be sealed for effective control.< If guests are already inside your home, the answer is "trapping." Poison bait is not a good solution. Trapping avoids costly complications--such as removal of a poisoned rodent from inside a wall. Use traps--they are effective. Another method of control we use is the Rat Zapper. Rats are intelligent and persistent. They will attempt to find or create new access points. Periodic inspections are recommended. Hearing noises or not... contact Stock Exterminators for a full attic inspection. We're trained professionals, ready to remove all uninvited pests from your home and yard. Call today... 1-888-339-1679 or use this simple form.