New construction, weather and property maintenance are just three conditions contributing to this population boom. New Construction drives rodents away from their natural habitats to seek new shelters in stormdrain systems, residential and business properties. Weather determines the activity of rodents.
Mild weather means more breeding.
A Norway rat can produce up to seven litters per year with up to twelve young per litter. Dry weather will cause stormdrains and creeks to dry out driving rodents to seek water in swimming pools, birdbaths and outdoor pet water bowls. Property Maintenance can attract or repel rodents. Stack firewood or lumber at least twelve inches off the ground and keep yards and alleyways free of rubbish and trash. Look for chew or gnaw marks around the bottom of doors, windows, in walls, floors, along wooden fences, boxes, crates, and food packaging.