In the family of rodents, mice and rats are most adaptable when it comes to their diet and habitat. Because of this, they have succeeded at being an insistent nuisance and pest since the beginning of civilization. The problem here is that rats and mice will consume almost anything and find content coexisting with people just anywhere and in nearly all kinds of environment.
If you discover rodents’ nests or rodent activities in your property, you may wonder what and why they are attracted to your home. You will find the answer in your surroundings. Overflowing garbage bins, dirty kitchen, and piles of leaves are among the things that very much attract mice and rats. Even if you hire the service of an expert rat removal company, such as the AAAC Wildlife Removal, these rodents will still be back if your property still continues to provide them food and shelter with the things that appeals to them.
Food That Draws In Rats and Mice
Mice and rats can eat almost 20 grams of food on a daily basis since they have a large stomach. Adult male rats can reach a weight of almost 267 grams whereas adult female can weigh until 225 grams. Whether we like it or not, we actually provide food for these rodents which is why we can’t seem to get rid of them. Let’s have a look at what types of foods we have at home that entices these rodents to seek shelter in or near our homes:
- Trash and Scrap. Whatever kind of refuse or waste we discard, these are goldmines and a feast for mice and rats. As mentioned, these rodents are adaptable when it comes to food. So, regardless of the kinds of food they find in your garbage can, whether these are vegetable and fruit peelings, expired bread, or a piece of meat, they will definitely be attracted to them.
- Food and Byproducts of Animals. Rodents don’t only devour food; they also gnaw on things that aren’t edible like worn clothes and cardboard boxes. If the taste and smell appeal to them, they will definitely nibble on them.
- Pet Food. If your pet cat or dog can eat them, then mice and rats can also eat them. However, dog and cat food aren’t the only things that draws in to these rodents. They too are interested in other types of animal food like fish food, seeds, grains, berries, and more. Rodents are particularly attracted to food that are salty and sweet.
With that, while it is impossible to completely get rid of rodents, it is important that you keep your property clean and well-maintained so as not to draw in rats and mice in your home and property.