Covid-19 Increased Rodent and Insect Activity – How to Stay Home & Safe
A survey by the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) reports a 51% increase in rat activity and a 41% increase in the activity of mice since the Covid-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. This spike has been cited as being due to increased rodent bravery in the face of empty buildings and deserted streets. The BPCA Technical Officer, Natalie Bungay explains, “With less footfall across cities and towns there is less associated food waste being left in bins and on the floor. As a result, rat populations are likely to move further afield to satisfy their need for a food source and this, in turn, is likely to cause more sightings.”
The National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) warns that stockpiling and hoarding may attract more rodents into households. Additionally, there is a build-up of waste due to businesses not operating as usual, e.g. missed bin collections, which is resulting in rodent and insect infestations. This is concerning, as John Hope, the NPTA Technical Manager, explains, “Public health pests such as rodents, cockroaches and houseflies are known to carry bacteria and can pass this on to people.” However, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of pests entering and taking up residence in your home.
Avon Pest Control Recommendations
- Wash dishes, pans, and utensils after each meal, wipe down surfaces and clean up crumbs and spillages immediately
- Keep rubbish in bins with tight, closable lids and take to your outside bin regularly
- As far as possible, keep outside bins positioned away from your house with lids securely closed
- Always keep food covered; store in glass or plastic airtight containers, inside cupboards or refrigerators
- Consider what you bulk-buy, e.g. does it have paper packaging? And consider where you will store it
- Do not leave pet food out overnight
- With the extra time you may have at home, why not ensure you have sealed all cracks and holes on the outside of your buildings. Pay special attention to areas such as the entry point of pipes; mice can squeeze through a 5mm gap!
- Eradicate all moisture sites, such as areas around clogged drains or leaking pipes. These areas are perfect breeding sites for mice
- Ensure your attic and basement is well ventilated and dry at all times
- Keep bushes and shrubbery cut back, or remove if it is too close to your house
- Make sure your garden is clean and tidy. Clutter allows mice and rats to find sheltered hiding places to live and breed.
- Stay vigilant! Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation. Catching the situation early can result in quicker eradication
Avon Pest Control are proud to be essential key workers and are currently operating with strict PPE controls on essential work. If lock down ramifications brings a pest to your home, garden or business, call Avon Pest Control today on 01926 632 929 or 01789 293 463, and we’ll happily discuss your pest problem and provide friendly, expert advice.
Avon Pest Control – Helping You Stay Home & Safe!