Winter in Riverside may not bring harsh snowstorms, but temperatures still drop enough to change rodent behavior. Mice and rats look for comfort, steady heat, and dependable food sources when cooler days arrive. They are brought close to homes as they change their movement, intensify their nesting habits, and search for shelter. That is why people in the city should understand the winter patterns of rodents to protect their property from these disease-carrying creatures. They can always rely on Akela Pest Control for help in eliminating active rodents and prevent future infestations. This family-owned business employs highly skilled technicians who can address rodent problems, regardless of their severity. Experts consider rodent behavior when dealing with these pests in the winter. Here’s what rodents do during the colder months:
They Prioritize Nesting
Rodents spend winter choosing and improving nest sites. They focus on indoor spots, using attics, crawl spaces, wall voids, and storage as shelter areas.
Mice gather soft materials, such as shredded paper, insulation fibers, and fabrics. Rats prefer dense material for structure and warmth. Their nests often sit close to food sources to limit movement and reduce exposure. Winter nests also support reproduction. With heat and food, they continue to multiply, which increases activity indoors.
They Intensify Their Search for Food
Riverside yards do not freeze in winter, but there may not be enough seeds, insects, and outdoor scraps for rodents. This drives rodents toward kitchens, pantries, and storage bins. These pests chew through thin containers, search through pantry shelves, and target pet food. They usually leave behind droppings, gnaw marks, and small debris trails as they move from place to another.
They Chew More Due to Limited Outdoor Material
Rodents chew to maintain their teeth. Winter encourages more chewing indoors because outdoor chew sources are harder to reach. They gnaw wood, wiring, drywall, and plastic pipes. Sadly, chewed electrical lines raise fire risks, while damaged pipes create moisture problems that attract other pests. Even small chew marks in baseboards signal an active presence.
They Increase their Movement in Wall Voids and Attics
Cold weather limits rodent travel outdoors, so most activity shifts to indoor paths. Rodents use wall voids, ceiling areas, and attic beams as safe routes. You may hear light tapping, scurrying, or rustling during quiet hours. These sounds often grow stronger during winter because families of rodents move together and expand their nest space.
They Seek Out Water Sources
Rodents need steady moisture even during cooler months. Winter reduces the availability of natural water, so they explore indoor sources. They are usually drawn to dripping pipes, pet bowls, appliance condensation, and restroom areas. Their presence near plumbing lines or water heaters is common during winter.
Rats Expand Territory When Competition Rises
As rats push indoors for warmth, territories overlap. This can cause aggressive behavior and increases the number of rats in a single location. Roof rats may move into attics first. Norway rats prefer lower levels or ground floors. When both species seek shelter at once, the building becomes a shared space with multiple nesting zones.
Mice Look for Gaps in Mild Weather
Mice can squeeze through very small cracks. Riverside’s mild winter days still allow mice to explore outside. They use warmer afternoons to search for openings along foundations, roof edges, and door frames.
They Reproduce More
Warm indoor temperatures encourage mice and rats to keep breeding all winter. Litters grow quickly, and new offspring reach maturity in a short time.
Their Odors Increase as Nests Grow
Urine scent marks help mice and rats communicate, and enclosed spaces trap the odor. This can be noticeable near baseboards, cabinets, or attic access points. Strong musky smells may signal a winter nesting site. The odor grows stronger the longer rodents stay indoors.
