How Extreme Weather Attracts Pests

Raindrops falling into a puddle on the sidewalk

With hot summers and relatively low annual precipitation, New Mexico is loved for its annual abundance of sunshine. However, our weather isn’t always perfect. Each year, cities across the state experience a variety of extreme weather conditions such as thunderstorms, heavy rain, or severe droughts.

Serious storms can be hazardous and destructive. But, most people overlook one major factor that can contribute to long-term property damage: pest infestations. By significantly altering their natural habitat, severe weather conditions can push pests out of their homes and into yours. Understanding how extreme weather attracts pests can help you protect your property from infestations, even in the face of an unexpected storm.

How Weather Influences Pest Behavior

Most rodents and insects rely heavily on their surroundings to survive. So, any rapid change in their environment will have a lasting impact on their regular habits. That said, it’s important to note that each species is different. Some pests thrive in hot and dry conditions, while others need moisture and cool shade to survive. Here are the two main environmental factors that influence pest behavior:

Temperature

A lot of pests depend on annual temperature patterns for key parts of their life cycle. For example, many insects will begin reproducing when the weather heats up in the summer, and most rodents will seek shelter and start nesting as things cool off in the early fall. A sudden dip or spike in the temperature during a severe weather event could alter pest behavior by:

  • Decreasing pest populations: Insects in particular are heavily influenced by temperature, largely because they are ectothermic and unable to produce any body heat of their own. For that reason, a large number of insects may die off during freezing conditions. While this can help control the populations of some unwanted pests, such as mosquitoes, it could also negatively impact the local environment by killing off beneficial critters such as bumblebees.
  • Increasing indoor infestations: Whether things get severely hot or cold, rapid weather changes may encourage pests to seek shelter indoors. Since our homes and businesses are temperature controlled, they become the ideal hiding place for pests who are unable to survive in the harsh outdoor conditions. 
  • Growing certain pest populations: Here in New Mexico, heat waves are a pretty common occurrence – especially in the summer. Some pests thrive in warm conditions, which could cause them to become more active or reproduce longer into the season.
  • Heightening pest aggression: Though some pests thrive in warm environments, extreme heat can dry out the landscape. Without moisture, the pests may die off or become desperate for survival. In their desperation, certain species – such as wasps – may become more aggressive toward humans.

Heavy Rains or Flooding

From April to July, many areas in New Mexico experience serious rainfall or thunderstorms. Particularly if the rain leads to flooding, these types of storms may lead to a sudden increase in insect and rodent activity. Excess water can influence pest behavior by:

  • Washing away or destroying nests: Even if the flooding doesn’t seem severe to you, a small stream of water is all it takes to flood out an ant nest or mouse burrow. Any displaced pests will search for shelter elsewhere, which could lead them into your property. 
  • Providing a place for some species to breed: Mosquitoes only require a half-inch of stagnant water to reproduce. Puddles leftover from serious rainfall could provide the perfect environment for these types of pests to thrive, leading to a sharp increase in their populations. 

Droughts

Summers here are long, hot, and dry. Though many of our local pests have adapted to withstand the heat, they still need water to survive. Droughts can kill off pests that don’t have access to water, and the dryness may ultimately lead to more indoor infestations. During a drought, our homes have more water than the rest of the environment. From leaky pipes to lawn sprinklers, it’s important to be aware that any moisture could attract a whole slew of pests when it’s dry outside.

How to Prevent Pests During Extreme Weather

Pests can be a major issue for home and business owners. From property damage to health risks, unwanted critters are the last thing you want to deal with during a serious storm. Though extreme weather can attract pests to your property, there are several steps you can take to prevent them from getting indoors:

  • Fix broken window or door screens
  • Repair worn-out weather stripping
  • Seal off any cracks and gaps that lead into your home
  • Repair leaky pipes, dripping faucets, or other plumbing issues
  • Get professional pest control services

Infestations can be stressful to deal with any time, but they are particularly difficult to handle on top of a serious storm. If you want help protecting your property from pests no matter the weather, turn to the experts at Pest Defense Solutions! With over 15 years serving the Albuquerque area, our highly trained technicians know how to handle any local rodents or insects that you may be dealing with. We strive to deliver reliable, long-lasting results that you can depend on. Get started with your free quote today! 

How to Stop the Quick Reproduction Rate of Rodents

Litter of mice in Albuquerque home - Pest Defense Solutions

One of the most concerning things about a rodent infestation—besides the germs and damage they can cause—is how quickly it can grow. This is because rodents have a rapid rate of reproduction. Seeing even one or two mice here can indicate that you already have a larger infestation. For this reason, it’s imperative to learn how to prevent mice from getting inside and turning your home into their own personal breeding grounds. This is best done by preventing rodents in your property altogether. To learn more, the experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to share everything you need to know about stopping the reproduction rate of rodents in your home.

How Quickly do Rodents Multiply?

You might not think a couple of mice in your garage is a bad thing—but even a small problem can quickly turn into an infestation. All it takes is one female and one male mouse to kickstart what could be a serious infestation. This is because young mice reach breeding age at 4–6 weeks of age. One mouse can give birth to five or six babies after just a three-week gestation period. These female mice can mate immediately after giving birth, meaning mice can birth a second litter in as little as 25 days after the first. Even worse, they can produce up to 10 litters a year!

Rodent reproduction rate infographic - Pest Defense Solutions in Albuquerque

How to Stop Rodents From Reproducing

To prevent rodents from turning your property into their own personal breeding grounds, you need to learn how to keep mice out altogether. This is best done by making your home or business impenetrable and less attractive to the pests altogether. The top three things you can do to repel mice are:

  1. Block off any easy access points—this could mean fixing screens on windows and vents, applying weather stripping on doors, and filling cracks in your plumbing fixtures and roofing.
  2. Clean dishes and spills right away and store your food properly, sealed in airtight containers.
  3. Keep your grass cut short, clear out your yard waste often, and refrain from using mulch near the foundation of your home.

Preventing Rodent Infestations in Albuquerque

No one wants to let a rodent infestation grow worse inside their home or business. This makes it imperative to know how to recognize the early signs of rodents in your property, like droppings or gnaw marks, so you can stop an infestation before it begins. At Pest Defense Solutions, we know how difficult this can be, which is why our rodent exterminators are always happy to help. Contact us today!

5 Easy Tips to Prevent Pests in Your Kitchen

Ants are a common kitchen pest problem in Albuquerque NM homes - Pest Defense Solutions

From family gatherings and birthday parties to get-togethers with friends and holiday baking days, a kitchen is the hub of any home. No matter how often you use your kitchen, it’s imperative to keep your surroundings clean and sanitized. One of the biggest threats to the cleanliness of your home is a pest infestation. Unfortunately, kitchens are somewhat of a haven for pests with the endless access to food and water. To prevent pests in your kitchen, it’s important to be proactive about making sure your environment doesn’t attract bugs in the first place. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to help with six easy tips for a pest-free kitchen—read on to learn more!

What Pests Infest Kitchens?

Both residential and commercial kitchens can be prone to all types of pest problems. The most common pests we see infesting kitchens here in Albuquerque NM are:

  • Pantry pests. True to name, these moths, beetles, and bugs infest dried goods and foods in your pantry, which can be any baker’s worst nightmare.
  • Ants. A small ant problem can quickly turn into a large one if ants have found a source of food or water in your kitchen
  • Cockroaches. Roaches love filth and feed on sewer and drain sludge. Many species love to hide behind appliances and are especially troublesome in the food service industry.
  • Flies. From drain flies to fungus gnats, flies can be a true nuisance in the kitchen and can affect your business’ reputation.
  • Rodents. Attracted to warmth and food, small house mice can take shelter behind your appliances and are attracted to food crumbs and garbage.

Infographic on preventing kitchen pests in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Tips to Keep Pests Out of Your Kitchen

Keeping a pest-free kitchen requires knowledge of what attracts them in the first place. The best tips to prevent pests around your sink, pantry, or other appliances are:

  1. Maintain a clean kitchen. Always clean up after meals and avoid crumbs and spills. Clean your floors regularly and avoid clutter.
  2. Seal cracks and fix leaks. Inspect your kitchen for leaky pipes or crevices around your windows. Seal off or repair issues as necessary.
  3. Organize. It’s important to seal all dried goods and foods in airtight containers. Regularly go through your pantry and keep things organized.
  4. Check your groceries. When buying certain goods at the store, inspect food items for tears or signs of damage to avoid pantry pests.
  5. Clean up after your pet. All types of pests love pet food! Store in airtight containers and never leave food bowls out overnight.

Kitchen Pest Control Services in Albuquerque NM

An infestation in your kitchen isn’t just gross—it’s dangerous! Pests can contaminate food and transmit dangerous diseases, making it all the more important to have a clean, pest-free kitchen. If you’ve done all you can and are still seeing pests around your appliances, it’s time to team up with the experts at Pest Defense Solutions. Contact us today to get started!

5 Facts About Mice and Rats

Rat in Albuquerque NM home - Pest Defense Solutions

Here in New Mexico, rodents are a common pest problem all year long. However, rodents are even more common during the fall and winter months. This is because rodents look to get inside homes or businesses to hunker down throughout the winter. To properly prepare and prevent rodent issues in your Albuquerque property, it’s important to learn about common rodent behaviors this time of year. With Rodent Awareness Week in just a couple of weeks, the experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to help. Read on to learn the top 5 facts about rats and mice that can help you learn how to keep rodents away for good!

Top Rodent Facts

In order to effectively prevent and get rid of rodents, it’s important to understand their unique behaviors and what makes them pests in the first place. The top things to know are:

  1. Rats and mice can get inside homes easily. Rodents are infamous for squeezing their way into homes. Some young mice can fit into holes that are just 5 mm wide, making any tiny crack or crevice a vulnerability.
  2. Rodents have a rapid rate of reproduction. Rats and mice are highly prolific breeders. Mice can have litters of 5 babies every three weeks, and rats can produce upward of 15 litters a year.
  3. Rodent teeth never stop growing. All types of rodents are identified by their ever-growing incisor teeth, which can grow up to 5 inches per year.
  4. Rodents are scavengers and some are omnivores. Rodents are infamous for devouring anything and everything. Most mice are vegetarians. However, many rats will feed on human or pet food, or anything else they come across!
  5. Rats and mice can carry and spread dangerous diseases. According to the CDC, rats and mice alike have been linked to the spread of over 35 different diseases.

Why Are Rats and Mice Considered Pests?

Rodent infestations are considered dangerous for a number of reasons. For one, wild rats and mice can carry and spread many germs and diseases that can lead to contamination and illness. When rodents infest your home, their population can quickly increase and they can create a real mess inside your home or business with their droppings and nesting. In addition to the mess, rodents can chew on electric wires, which can become a fire hazard. Moreover, a rodent problem can become a hazard in your home, making it important to enlist the help of a pest control expert.

Think You Have a Rodent Infestation?

Here at Pest Defense Solutions, we get a lot of calls about rodents this time of year. The key to rodent control is always prevention. Our rodent control experts will help by implementing rodent exclusion tactics throughout your property. To learn more, contact us today!

What Pests Are Attracted to Leaky Pipes?

Cockroaches are known to linger in pipes and plumbing in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Discovering you have a plumbing issue or water leak in your home is one of the worst things a homeowner can experience. One of the other worst things? A pest infestation! Unfortunately, these two instances often go hand in hand. This is because insects and other pests are attracted to areas with excessive moisture. Needless to say, one broken water pipe or even a leak can quickly lead to pests coming out of the woodworks and into your home. For this reason, it’s important to always be on the lookout for leaky pipes or issues in your home if you want to prevent pest problems as well. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here to tell you everything you need to know about leaky pipes and pests in your Albuquerque home.

Pests Attracted to Water

Water is one of the main pest attractants. While most need water just for survival, many others are drawn to the environment caused by excess moisture. The four most common pests that are known to dwell in areas with excess moisture are as follows:

  1. Termites: If a broken pipe has caused water damage in the very structure of your home, you can be sure termites are to follow. Subterranean termites in particular are attracted to moist wood and soil. When there are unattended-to leaky pipes or plumbing issues, you could be leaving your home vulnerable to termites.
  2. Ants: These tiny pests will appear seemingly out of nowhere when excess moisture is abundant. Leaky faucets or spilled water from a pet’s bowl can bring ants out in the hundreds. In addition to your typical house ant, water can be a main attractant to the wood-destroying carpenter ant as well.
  3. Cockroaches: Roaches may be known for their resiliency, but they aren’t as strong as you’d think. Without water for a week, a roach will not survive. Cockroaches also love to linger inside of pipes and plumbing fixtures. An issue can quickly introduce roaches into other parts of the house.
  4. Rodents: Rats and mice alike are always looking for a water supply. Leaky pipes or broken faucets in your crawl space or laundry room can provide a haven for rodents. The last thing you want is rodents scurrying around when you have a plumbing issue, making it important to prevent them.

How to Prevent Leaky Pipes

Preventing pests requires preventing the conditions that would attract them in the first place. Always be on the lookout for signs of excess moisture in your home. Regularly inspect to ensure your faucets aren’t dripping, your drains aren’t clogging, and there are no leaks from your fridge, washing machine, or dishwasher. If there are problems, get them fixed right away with professional help. Additionally, consider running a dehumidifier in areas of your home that are more prone to moisture!

Leaky Pipes & Pests in Albuquerque Homes

The last thing you want is a full-blown infestation, making it important to contact your local exterminator after noticing a pest problem. At Pest Defense Solutions, we will work hard to get rid of any pest problems and provide you with tips to prevent future ones.

5 Tips For a Pest-Free Garage

Plastic bins help prevent pests in garages in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

We all know pests love to make themselves at home inside your kitchen or in your attic, but what about the garage? Especially here in Albuquerque, garages are a hotspot for pest infestations. A garage oftentimes provides pests with ample food, shelter, and water, making it a prime spot year-round. Whether you keep your holiday decorations stored away in the garage or your gardening tools, you likely want to avoid dealing with pests every time you have to rifle through your garage. The experts at Pest Defense Solutions are here with their top tips for a pest-free garage all year long.

What Pests Infest Garages?

More than a few pests will likely find your garage to be a haven. Some of the most common ones we experience here in New Mexico include:

  • Mice & Rats. Particularly in the winter, rodents will seek shelter in garages. They can easily build nests in storage boxes and wall voids or even sneak into your car.
  • Spiders. Arachnids are known to spin webs in boxes and in rarely-accessed corners. You can be sure to come across spiders when pulling out holiday decorations from your garage every year.
  • Silverfish. These tiny insects are especially fond of garages and cardboard boxes. Once they are in your garage, they can feed on a number of items: paper, glue, clothing, flour, and more. While mostly harmless, silverfish are nonetheless a nuisance.
  • Flies. Especially in the hot summer months, flies can be a major nuisance. House flies can be found resting on nearly any surface including on walls, floors, window sills and other various objects found in the garage.

Best Tips For a Pest-Free Garage

Keeping pests out of your garage requires many of the same procedures you’d take to prevent them inside your home. This includes:

  1. Installing weather stripping and using silicone-based caulk to seal cracks and crevices.
  2. Promptly fixing moisture issues by repairing leaky pipes and using a dehumidifier.
  3. Storing all food, decorations, and other goods in plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes.
  4. Keeping your garage clean and tidy by blowing it out once a month and sweeping when necessary.
  5. Storing all items up off of the ground when possible, and staying as organized as possible.

Pests in Albuquerque Garages

Dealing with pests anywhere inside or outside your property can be frustrating and even downright dangerous. If you are having trouble keeping pests out of your garage, the expert technicians at Pest Defense Solutions can help!

Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

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Entomologists from Pest Defense Solutions’ parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

What is Pest Seasonality?

Ants are a common seasonal pest in Albuquerque NM - Pest Defense Solutions

Here in Albuquerque NM, we deal with pest problems all year long. Of course, spring and summer sees an increase in pest activity, but pests are active in the fall and winter months as well. Pest seasonality is a term used to describe pest activity in fall, winter, spring, and summer. In order to better prepare yourself for an infestation, it’s important to know what pests are most common during different parts of the year. Following information released by the NPMA, the team at Pest Defense Solutions is here to share need-to-know info on pest seasonality in our area.

Pests in the Fall and Winter Months

Our mild and wet summer may mean a longer mosquito and tick season that may last through the fall months. Because we don’t experience the harsh cold winters that many parts of the country do, we can expect to deal with pest infestations through the winter months. One of the biggest pest threats this time of year is rodents, who will seek out shelter indoors this time of year. Ants and cockroaches may also find a way inside to seek out moisture that they may be lacking outside.

Winter pests in the South Central United States map
Rodent
Fly
Mosquito
Ant
Cockroach

Spring & Summer Pests in Albuquerque

Every spring and summer, you can expect pest activity to rise again. Our weather encourages all types of pests to reproduce and thrive throughout most of the year. Here’s the ones to look out for:

  • Flies. While mostly a nuisance, fly populations boom in the summertime and can quickly ruin your outdoor events.
  • Stinging insects. Bees, wasps, and hornets will construct nests near residential properties and can be a threat to families.
  • Termites. Our climate is a haven for termites, who swarm in the spring and are at full force in the summertime.
  • Mosquitoes. Mosquitoes lay a lot of eggs in standing water during the summer months, which is when they’re most problematic.

Pest Seasonality Prevention and Control

No matter what season it is, you don’t want to deal with a pest problem. The best way to prevent seasonal pests is to work with a professional pest control company that can protect you year-round. At Pest Defense Solutions, our exterminators will work with you to determine a custom pest control plan suited to the unique needs of your home.

How to Keep Rodents Away This Fall

Rodents infest homes in Albuquerque NM in the fall - Pest Defense Solutions

Every year when the seasons change, pest infestations spike. This is especially true for rodents, who get indoors to escape the seasonal changes outdoors in Albuquerque. Like any other type of pest, they will seek out warmth, shelter, and food inside your home. Rats and mice inside aren’t just a nuisance, they’re dangerous too! Not only are rodents destructive, but they can also spread germs and disease as well. The team at Pest Defense Solutions knows how important it is to keep your family safe from rodents. We also know you want to feel comfortable in your home and enjoy the fall season without worrying about an infestation in your home! Read on to learn our top tips to keep rodents away this fall and all year long.

How Do Rats and Mice Get Inside?

The good news is that it’s rather easy to tell when you have rats or mice in your home. Rodents will take shelter in the attic, basement, and garage. They also will infest kitchens, laundry rooms, and are highly likely to invade your trash cans if given the chance. Mice are able to squeeze through tiny openings, jump, and build nests in just about any room you can imagine. A rat or mouse problem often begins when the rodents get in through your chimney, pipes, air vents, and more. Once they’re indoors, they can easily spread and cause damage wherever they go.

5 Ways to Keep Rodents Away For Good

Rodents can get inside easily. It’s important to not only stop their chances of succeeding but also to make your property less attractive to them. Our top tips to prevent rats and mice this fall include:

  1. Cover all vents. Install mesh screens on your vents. Also, consider installing screens on doors and windows.
  2. Use a tight-fitting lid on your trash cans. Rodents love to rummage in the garbage! If possible, keep your trash cans sealed and stored.
  3. Protect your eaves. Fix any damaged roofing and use wire mesh to seal gaps in your eaves.
  4. Store food and items properly. Securely store food in tight-fitting containers with lids.
  5. Seal cracks and crevices. Use caulk or wire wool to cover up gaps and openings near pipes and other openings.

Fall Rodent Infestations in Albuquerque

No one wants to deal with an infestation in the fall, especially rodents! Rats and mice alike can spread germs, chew through wires, and cause destruction. If you think you have a rodent problem or want to prevent one altogether, the rats and mice control team at Pest Defense Solutions can help. Contact us today to learn about our rodent prevention services!

How to Prevent These 5 Spring Pests

Prevent spring pests by spring cleaning your Albuquerque NM home! Learn more from Pest Defense Solutions.

It’s finally springtime here in Albuquerque! Most people rejoice the return of warming weather. The return of pests, however, not so much. Unfortunately, spring is only the beginning of the major pest season, which can last throughout the fall. Pest problems are obviously a fact of life all year long in New Mexico. With so many people spring cleaning their property, now is the time to implement some pest prevention measures! Keep reading for expert tips from the team here at Pest Defense Solutions.

What Pests are Common in the Spring?

Although some of these pests are active all throughout the year, now is the time that they come out in full force. So what pests do you need to be on the lookout for? The following are just 5 of the typical pest problems dealt with by property owners this time of year:

How to Keep Springtime Pests Away

‘Tis the season for spring cleaning…and pest prevention, while you’re at it. When thoroughly cleaning your property, there’s a few areas to focus on. Clean your windows and doors, and make sure there are no cracks or crevices. Deep-clean your carpets by vacuuming, shampooing, or steam-cleaning them. Thoroughly sanitize your kitchen with a focus on your appliances. Crumbs and spilled liquids are a goldmine for bugs and other pests.

Outside, clean up debris from your yard, gutters, and overhangs. Make sure to trim back tree limbs and shrubs away from the foundation of your home to keep outdoor pests just that—outdoor pests.

Pest Control in the Springtime

With pest season well underway, it’s important to realize that pests will be in full force for the next few months. To fully protect yourself and your home from an infestation, it’s smart to team up with a professional exterminator. Our team will work with you to develop a custom pest control plan suited to the unique needs of your property.