As winter fades and temperatures begin to rise, nature starts to wake up—and unfortunately, so do many pests. Spring is a season of growth and renewal, but it also marks the beginning of peak pest activity. Warmer weather, increased moisture, and longer daylight hours create the perfect conditions for bugs to emerge, breed, and start invading homes and yards.
At Lincoln Pest Control, we know that early detection and prevention are key to keeping spring pests under control. Here are some of the most common bugs that thrive during the spring months and what you can do to keep them at bay.
Ants
Ants are among the first pests to become active in spring. As the ground warms up, they come out of their colonies in search of food. It’s common to find them in kitchens, pantries, and around windows or doorways.
What to watch for:
- Trails of ants near baseboards, sinks, or pet food
- Small piles of dirt or sand around cracks in concrete or pavement
Tip: Keep food sealed, clean up crumbs promptly, and seal entry points around your home.
Termites
Spring is swarming season for termites, especially for subterranean species. Swarms of winged termites (called swarmers) may appear indoors or near your home’s foundation. These insects are often mistaken for flying ants, but they’re a clear sign of a potentially serious infestation.
What to watch for:
- Winged termites or discarded wings near windowsills
- Mud tubes on exterior walls or wooden beams
- Hollow-sounding wood or bubbling paint
Tip: Schedule a professional inspection if you suspect termite activity—early detection is critical.
Mosquitoes
As soon as temperatures stay consistently above 50°F, mosquito season begins. Standing water left from snowmelt or spring rain creates ideal breeding grounds.
What to watch for:
- Increased activity at dawn and dusk
- Mosquitoes buzzing around shaded or damp areas
- Itchy red bites, especially around ankles and arms
Tip: Remove standing water from containers, gutters, and plant saucers, and consider professional treatment if the population becomes overwhelming.
Wasps and Bees
Bees and wasps become more active as they search for nesting sites and food sources. While bees play a vital role in pollination, wasps can be more aggressive, especially later in the season.
What to watch for:
- Nest building under eaves, decks, or in attics
- Increased activity around flowers, trash, or outdoor meals
- Buzzing near windows or wall voids
Tip: Stay alert for early nest construction and avoid DIY nest removal—some species can be aggressive if disturbed.
Ticks
Ticks become active as temperatures rise, especially in wooded, grassy, or damp environments. They pose a health risk to both humans and pets due to their ability to spread diseases like Lyme disease.
What to watch for:
- Ticks on pets after spending time outside
- Bites on ankles, legs, or other exposed areas
- Ticks clinging to tall grass or shrubs
Tip: Wear long sleeves and pants when in wooded areas, use insect repellent, and check pets regularly.
Spiders
While many spiders are harmless—and even helpful—they tend to show up more in spring while hunting for food or a mate. They often follow other bugs indoors, especially into basements, garages, or sheds.
What to watch for:
- Webs in corners, closets, or around windows
- Increased sightings in quiet, undisturbed areas
- Spiders hiding under furniture or in storage
Tip: Keep your home clean and clutter-free, and seal small cracks around windows and doors.
Don’t Let Spring Pests Take Over
Spring should be a time to enjoy warmer weather—not worry about unwanted guests. The earlier you address pest activity, the easier it is to manage throughout the season.
Lincoln Pest Control offers comprehensive pest prevention and removal services to keep your home and property bug-free this spring. Whether you’re dealing with ants in the kitchen or termites in the walls, we’re here to help with proven solutions and expert care.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
How to Clean After You Remove Rodents
/in Blog, Pest Control, Rodent ControlFinding out you have a rodent problem is bad enough. But even after the rodents are removed, the work isn’t over. Their nests, droppings, and contaminated materials can leave behind serious health risks and lasting damage. That’s why knowing how to properly clean up after a rodent infestation—and why hiring a professional matters—is just as important as removing the pests themselves.
What Is a Rodent Clean-Out?
A clean-out involves fully cleaning and sterilizing the areas where rodents nested or traveled. At Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions, this includes removing and replacing insulation in attics, vacuuming and clearing out drop ceiling areas, and sanitizing every surface affected by rodent activity.
These spaces often contain urine, feces, nesting material, and sometimes even deceased rodents—all of which can carry dangerous pathogens. Cleaning these areas thoroughly is critical not only for your health but also to ensure rodents aren’t attracted back to familiar nesting spots.
Sterilization Is Essential, Not Optional
Rodents can carry and spread a number of harmful bacteria and viruses, including hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis. Simply vacuuming or spraying with common household cleaners isn’t enough to fully neutralize the risk. Professional sterilization ensures that every surface is properly disinfected and safe to reoccupy.
Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions uses DSV (Disinfectant • Sanitizer • Virucide)—one of the most powerful and effective disinfectants available today. This broad-spectrum solution is proven to kill dozens of strains of viruses and bacteria. In fact, it’s so effective that it’s used to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus in both residential and commercial environments.
DSV also works as a fungicide, mildew stat, and deodorizer—eliminating odors and harmful spores that may linger after a rodent infestation.
The Dangers of DIY Cleanup
Trying to handle rodent clean-up on your own without the right equipment or protection can expose you to health risks. Disturbing contaminated materials can release airborne particles that may lead to respiratory illness or infection. Even if the area looks clean, dangerous bacteria can remain embedded in insulation, wall cavities, or ceiling tiles.
Hiring a professional ensures that contaminated materials are handled and disposed of safely, and that all surfaces are thoroughly disinfected using specialized tools and industry-grade sanitizing agents.
Why Choose Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions?
Our team goes beyond pest removal. We offer complete clean-out and sterilization services that restore your property to a safe, healthy condition. Whether rodents were nesting in your attic insulation or running through your drop ceiling, we’ll clear, clean, and sanitize every affected area.
With decades of experience and a reputation for thorough, professional work, we’ve helped homeowners and businesses across the region recover from pest infestations with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Rodent removal is just the first step. For your safety and peace of mind, it’s essential to follow through with proper cleaning and sterilization. Trust the professionals at Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions to ensure your space is not only rodent-free—but truly clean, healthy, and safe.
Contact us today to schedule a rodent clean-out or learn more about our disinfection and sanitizing services.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
Top 5 Summer Pests You Should Watch Out For
/in Blog, Pest ControlSummer in New England means barbecues, beach days, and plenty of time spent outdoors. But it also brings a surge in pest activity as warmer temperatures create the perfect environment for unwanted visitors to thrive—both outside and in your home.
At Lincoln Pest Control, we know that pest problems don’t take a vacation. Here are the top 5 summer pests you should be on the lookout for—and what to do if they decide to make themselves at home.
Ants
Ants are some of the most persistent summer pests. Whether it’s a trail of sugar ants in the kitchen or a colony of carpenter ants damaging your woodwork, these tiny invaders are always on the move when temperatures rise.
Signs to watch for:
Mosquitoes
They’re more than just annoying—they’re a real health risk. Mosquitoes breed in standing water and can quickly turn your backyard into a buzzing hazard. In addition to itchy bites, they’re known carriers of West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), both of which have had cases in the Northeast.
Prevention tip: Eliminate standing water in birdbaths, planters, and clogged gutters.
Ticks
Ticks love tall grass, wooded areas, and shaded spots where pets and people roam. These tiny pests are active in summer and are known for spreading Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
Check yourself, your kids, and your pets after spending time outdoors—especially around the ankles, behind the knees, and along the hairline.
Wasps & Hornets
No one wants to discover a wasp nest under the eaves or in the kids’ playset. These aggressive stingers can become territorial during summer, especially as they build and protect their nests.
Warning signs:
Note: Never try to remove a wasp or hornet nest on your own. It can be dangerous without the proper protective gear and training.
Cockroaches
Summer heat can drive cockroaches indoors in search of food and moisture. They reproduce quickly and are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they’ve settled in.
Clues of a roach problem include:
Protect Your Home This Summer with Lincoln Pest Control
From preventative treatments to safe, effective removal services, Lincoln Pest Control has been protecting Rhode Island homes and businesses for over 30 years. Our trained professionals know how to identify seasonal threats and create a customized plan to keep your space pest-free—so you can enjoy your summer without worry.
Whether it’s ants in the kitchen or wasps by the porch, we’re here to help.
Call Lincoln Pest Control today for a free estimate or to schedule your summer pest inspection. Let’s stop pests before they stop your summer fun.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
5 Ways To Mosquito-Proof Your Yard
/in Blog, Pest ControlAs summer approaches the warm weather brings with it the unwelcome presence of mosquitoes. These pests not only cause itchy bites but also pose health risks by transmitting diseases. At Lincoln Pest Control, we understand the importance of enjoying your outdoor spaces without the nuisance of mosquitoes. Here are five effective strategies to mosquito-proof your yard:
Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, making it crucial to remove any potential breeding grounds. Common culprits include:
Regularly inspect your yard for standing water and eliminate it. For water features like ponds that can’t be drained, consider using mosquito dunks—biological control agents that target mosquito larvae without harming other wildlife.
Maintain Your Landscaping
Overgrown grass and dense vegetation provide ideal resting spots for adult mosquitoes. Keep your lawn mowed and trim bushes and shrubs regularly to reduce these hiding places. Additionally, remove yard debris such as leaves and grass clippings that can retain moisture and attract mosquitoes.
Utilize Natural Repellents
Certain plants emit scents that mosquitoes find unappealing. Incorporate the following into your garden or place them in pots around outdoor seating areas:
While these plants can help deter mosquitoes, they are most effective when their essential oils are released—such as by lightly crushing the leaves.
Install Outdoor Fans
Mosquitoes are weak fliers and tend to avoid areas with strong air movement. Setting up outdoor fans in patios or decks can create a breeze that makes it difficult for mosquitoes to fly, significantly reducing their presence in those areas.
Consider Professional Mosquito Control Services
For comprehensive protection, professional mosquito control services can provide targeted treatments to reduce mosquito populations in your yard. At Lincoln Pest Control, our experts assess your property and implement effective strategies tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a mosquito-free environment for you and your family.
Enjoy a Mosquito-Free Summer
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population in your yard and enjoy your outdoor spaces without the constant annoyance of bites. If you’re seeking professional assistance, Lincoln Pest Control is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our mosquito control services and how we can make your yard a more comfortable place all summer long.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
Top 5 Fly Control Methods
/in Blog, Pest ControlFlies may seem like a minor nuisance, but they can pose major problems—especially when they invade your home or business. Not only are flies unsightly and annoying, but they can also carry bacteria and contaminate food, making effective fly control essential for both comfort and health.
At Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions, we know how frustrating a fly infestation can be. Here are five proven methods to keep flies away and protect your property year-round.
Eliminate Attractants
The first step in fly control is prevention. Flies are drawn to food waste, organic matter, and moisture. Removing their food sources drastically reduces the chance of an infestation.
Tips:
Install Physical Barriers
Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. Prevent flies from entering your property by sealing their entry points.
Tips:
Use Traps and Baits
There are many fly traps and bait products available for residential and commercial use. These tools can be especially helpful when dealing with existing fly activity.
Types of traps include:
Each trap targets specific fly species, so it’s important to choose the right one for your situation—or work with a professional who can recommend the best approach.
Maintain Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor fly populations often migrate indoors. Keeping your exterior clean and tidy can help prevent them from entering in the first place.
Tips:
Landscaping choices and waste management play a big role in keeping fly populations low.
Schedule Professional Pest Control
If flies are becoming a persistent issue, professional pest control is your best line of defense. At Lincoln Pest & Property Solutions, we use targeted treatments tailored to the specific fly species invading your space—ensuring long-term relief.
Our services include:
Don’t waste time and money on ineffective DIY methods. Our experienced technicians are trained to handle even the most stubborn fly problems.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
Bugs That Love Spring
/in Blog, Pest ControlAs winter fades and temperatures begin to rise, nature starts to wake up—and unfortunately, so do many pests. Spring is a season of growth and renewal, but it also marks the beginning of peak pest activity. Warmer weather, increased moisture, and longer daylight hours create the perfect conditions for bugs to emerge, breed, and start invading homes and yards.
At Lincoln Pest Control, we know that early detection and prevention are key to keeping spring pests under control. Here are some of the most common bugs that thrive during the spring months and what you can do to keep them at bay.
Ants
Ants are among the first pests to become active in spring. As the ground warms up, they come out of their colonies in search of food. It’s common to find them in kitchens, pantries, and around windows or doorways.
What to watch for:
Tip: Keep food sealed, clean up crumbs promptly, and seal entry points around your home.
Termites
Spring is swarming season for termites, especially for subterranean species. Swarms of winged termites (called swarmers) may appear indoors or near your home’s foundation. These insects are often mistaken for flying ants, but they’re a clear sign of a potentially serious infestation.
What to watch for:
Tip: Schedule a professional inspection if you suspect termite activity—early detection is critical.
Mosquitoes
As soon as temperatures stay consistently above 50°F, mosquito season begins. Standing water left from snowmelt or spring rain creates ideal breeding grounds.
What to watch for:
Tip: Remove standing water from containers, gutters, and plant saucers, and consider professional treatment if the population becomes overwhelming.
Wasps and Bees
Bees and wasps become more active as they search for nesting sites and food sources. While bees play a vital role in pollination, wasps can be more aggressive, especially later in the season.
What to watch for:
Tip: Stay alert for early nest construction and avoid DIY nest removal—some species can be aggressive if disturbed.
Ticks
Ticks become active as temperatures rise, especially in wooded, grassy, or damp environments. They pose a health risk to both humans and pets due to their ability to spread diseases like Lyme disease.
What to watch for:
Tip: Wear long sleeves and pants when in wooded areas, use insect repellent, and check pets regularly.
Spiders
While many spiders are harmless—and even helpful—they tend to show up more in spring while hunting for food or a mate. They often follow other bugs indoors, especially into basements, garages, or sheds.
What to watch for:
Tip: Keep your home clean and clutter-free, and seal small cracks around windows and doors.
Don’t Let Spring Pests Take Over
Spring should be a time to enjoy warmer weather—not worry about unwanted guests. The earlier you address pest activity, the easier it is to manage throughout the season.
Lincoln Pest Control offers comprehensive pest prevention and removal services to keep your home and property bug-free this spring. Whether you’re dealing with ants in the kitchen or termites in the walls, we’re here to help with proven solutions and expert care.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
Rodent Entry Assessments Versus Exclusions
/in Blog, Pest Control, Rodent ControlRodents are more than just a nuisance; they pose serious health risks and can cause costly damage to homes and businesses. Preventing an infestation starts with identifying how these pests are getting inside and taking the right steps to keep them out. This is where rodent entry assessments and exclusion services come into play.
At Lincoln Pest Control, we offer both entry assessments and exclusion services, but it’s important to understand that these are two separate services. An assessment helps determine where and how rodents are entering, while exclusion involves sealing those entry points to prevent future infestations. Let’s take a closer look at each service and how they work together to protect your home or business.
What Is a Rodent Entry Assessment?
A rodent entry assessment is the first step in identifying the vulnerabilities in your home or building that may be allowing rodents inside. During an assessment, a pest control professional will:
Once the assessment is complete, we provide a detailed report outlining problem areas and recommended solutions. In many cases, this leads to an exclusion service to seal off entry points and prevent rodents from coming back.
What Is Rodent Exclusion?
Rodent exclusion is a proactive service that involves sealing off entry points to prevent rodents from getting inside. This is the most effective long-term solution for rodent control, as it stops the problem at its source rather than relying solely on trapping or baiting.
Exclusion measures may include:
Because every home or business is different, exclusion services are customized based on the findings of the entry assessment. While some properties may require only minor repairs, others may need more extensive exclusion work to keep rodents out permanently.
Why an Assessment Often Leads to Exclusion
A rodent entry assessment is designed to diagnose the problem, while an exclusion service is the solution. In many cases, once an assessment is completed, it becomes clear that exclusion services are necessary to fully protect the property.
If rodents have already entered the property, exclusion is often paired with additional control methods, such as trapping and baiting, to remove any existing pests before sealing entry points.
Which Service Do You Need?
At Lincoln Pest Control, we provide comprehensive rodent control solutions, from thorough entry assessments to expert exclusion services. Whether you need to identify, remove, or prevent rodents, our team is here to help.
Schedule an assessment today and take the first step toward a rodent-free home or business.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
Clean-Outs and Sterilization Services Explained
/in Blog, Pest ControlPest infestations can leave behind more than just an inconvenience—they can result in health hazards, structural damage, and lingering contamination. Even after pests are removed, their droppings, nesting materials, and bacteria can continue to pose risks to homes and businesses. That’s why clean-outs and sterilization services are a critical step in restoring a safe and sanitary environment. At Lincoln Pest Control, we offer comprehensive clean-out and sterilization solutions to eliminate contaminants and prevent future infestations. Here’s what you need to know about these essential services.
What Are Clean-Outs and Why Are They Important?
A clean-out is a deep, targeted removal of pest-related debris and contaminants left behind after an infestation. Standard pest control measures focus on eliminating active pests, but without a proper clean-out, your space can still harbor bacteria, allergens, and attractants that could lead to future problems.
Clean-outs are especially important for:
A thorough clean-out eliminates pest waste, removes nesting materials, and ensures that no remaining food sources are available to attract new infestations.
What Is Sterilization and When Is It Needed?
Sterilization goes beyond cleaning—it involves disinfecting and sanitizing affected areas to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and lingering odors. Pests such as rodents, cockroaches, and birds can introduce harmful pathogens into living and working spaces. Sterilization services ensure that these risks are fully addressed.
Situations that require sterilization include:
The Process of Professional Clean-Outs and Sterilization
At Lincoln Pest Control, we follow a structured and thorough approach to clean-outs and sterilization to ensure your space is fully restored. Our process includes:
Inspection and Assessment
Removal of Pest Waste and Debris
Deep Cleaning and Sanitization
Air Purification and Odor Control
Preventative Measures
The Benefits of Professional Clean-Out and Sterilization Services
Investing in a professional clean-out and sterilization service offers several advantages:
Trust Lincoln Pest Control for Expert Clean-Outs and Sterilization
At Lincoln Pest Control, we understand the risks associated with pest infestations and the importance of restoring a clean and sanitary space. Our comprehensive clean-out and sterilization services are designed to protect your home or business from health hazards and future infestations.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
The Importance of Regular Pest Control Inspections
/in Blog, Pest ControlWhen it comes to maintaining your home or business, pest control inspections might not always top your list of priorities. However, the truth is that regular inspections are a critical step in protecting your property, health, and peace of mind. At Lincoln Pest Control, we’ve seen firsthand how routine pest control inspections can save property owners from costly damages and health risks.
Why Regular Inspections Are Essential
Early Detection of Problems
Pests are experts at hiding, and by the time you notice visible signs of an infestation, the damage may already be done. Regular inspections allow trained professionals to detect problems early, stopping pests in their tracks before they cause significant harm.
Prevent Property Damage
Pests like termites, rodents, and carpenter ants can wreak havoc on your property’s structure. Termites alone cause billions of dollars in damage annually in the U.S. Regular inspections ensure that any signs of these destructive pests are identified and addressed promptly.
Protect Health and Safety
Pests are more than a nuisance—they can pose serious health risks. Rodents, cockroaches, and mosquitoes can spread diseases, while some pests, like bed bugs, can cause allergic reactions and skin irritations. Regular pest control inspections help ensure your living or working environment remains safe and sanitary.
Avoid Expensive Repairs
The cost of repairing pest damage far exceeds the cost of routine inspections and preventive measures. Investing in regular pest control services can save you thousands in the long run by addressing issues before they escalate.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your property is pest-free offers priceless peace of mind. Regular inspections by professionals ensure that your home or business is protected year-round, letting you focus on what matters most.
What Happens During a Pest Control Inspection?
A professional pest control inspection typically includes:
How Often Should You Schedule Inspections?
The frequency of inspections depends on your location, property type, and history of pest issues. As a general guideline:
Why Choose Lincoln Pest Control?
At Lincoln Pest Control, we understand the importance of protecting your property from pests. Our experienced team offers:
Regular pest control inspections are an investment in your property’s longevity, safety, and value.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your inspection with Lincoln Pest Control today and keep your property pest-free year-round!
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
End of Year Message
/in Blog, Pest Control, Rodent ControlAs 2024 comes to a close, we at Lincoln Pest Control are taking the time to reflect on a year filled with progress, commitment, and meaningful connections with our customers. This year, our team worked tirelessly to ensure that your homes and businesses remained pest-free, providing peace of mind and dependable service every step of the way.
A Commitment to Excellence in Pest Control
The pest control industry is constantly evolving, and we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve. Throughout 2024, we made it a priority to:
Thank You to Our Valued Customers
We owe our success to you—our loyal customers. Your trust in our team inspires us to do our best every day. Whether we’ve helped you with preventative treatments, urgent pest concerns, or seasonal services, we are honored to be your trusted partner in pest control.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we prepare for the year ahead, we are excited to build on the progress we’ve made. In 2025, Lincoln Pest Control will continue to uphold our commitment to innovation, reliability, and exceptional service. No matter the challenge, our team is ready to protect your property and provide solutions you can depend on.
From all of us at Lincoln Pest Control, we wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and pest-free New Year!
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.
Five Signs of Rats In Your House
/in Blog, Rodent ControlRats are more than just unwelcome guests; they can bring health risks, property damage, and even structural concerns to your home. Recognizing the signs of a rat infestation early on can help prevent a minor problem from turning into a major headache. At Lincoln Pest Control, we want to equip you with the knowledge to identify and address these unwelcome visitors promptly. Here are five common signs that you might have rats in your home.
Droppings
One of the most visible signs of a rat infestation is the presence of droppings. Rat droppings are typically dark, small, and shaped like pellets. You’ll often find them in areas where rats are most active, like the kitchen, pantry, attic, or near garbage bins. Fresh droppings are soft and dark, while older droppings become dry and brittle. If you notice droppings accumulating in specific areas, it’s a clear indication that rats may be nearby.
Gnaw Marks
Rats have strong teeth that grow continuously, so they need to chew on hard materials to keep them filed down. This behavior often leaves gnaw marks on surfaces around your home. Commonly chewed items include furniture, wooden beams, wires, and food packaging. Fresh gnaw marks are typically light in color and darken over time. Rats chewing on electrical wires can also be a fire hazard, making it critical to address this issue as soon as you spot evidence of their chewing.
Nests and Burrows
Rats will create nests using materials they find around the house, such as shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or even cardboard. Nests are usually found in hidden, warm, and undisturbed areas like basements, attics, and inside walls. If you notice small piles of shredded materials or nests, it’s a strong indication that rats are nesting in your home. You might also spot burrows outside near foundations or in overgrown areas close to your home’s exterior.
Footprints and Tail Marks
In dusty or undisturbed areas, you may notice rat footprints or tail marks. Rats typically have four-toed front feet and five-toed hind feet, so look for tracks with these patterns in places like basements, attics, or hidden corners. You can check for active movement by sprinkling a small layer of flour or talcum powder in suspected areas and looking for new tracks the following day. If you find fresh marks, it’s a strong sign that rats are moving through these areas.
Noises in the Walls or Attic
Rats are nocturnal, so they’re most active at night. If you hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds coming from within walls, ceilings, or the attic, rats may be the cause. These noises often occur as rats move through your home in search of food or while they nest. The sounds may intensify if there is a significant infestation, making it essential to address the issue quickly before it worsens.
How Lincoln Pest Control Can Help
Detecting a rat infestation early is crucial to preventing the problem from growing out of control. At Lincoln Pest Control, our experienced technicians provide comprehensive rodent control solutions to keep your home safe. We use a combination of effective treatments and exclusion methods to eliminate existing infestations and prevent rats from returning.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs or suspect rats may have found their way into your home, contact us today. Our team is here to help you regain peace of mind with safe, professional pest control services tailored to your needs.
Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.