As the leaves start to change and the temperatures drop in St. Louis, many homeowners welcome the crisp air and cozy evenings. Unfortunately, you’re not the only one looking for warmth and comfort this time of year — rats and mice are too. Fall is one of the peak seasons for rodent activity, and if you’re not careful, these pests can easily find their way inside your home.
At STL Pest Control, we’ve been protecting St. Louis families since 1989, and every fall we see a surge in calls about rats and mice. Here’s why they become such a big problem this season, what signs to watch for, and how you can keep them out of your home.
Why Rats and Mice Become a Bigger Problem in Fall
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Colder Temperatures – When the weather cools, rodents look for warm, insulated places to nest. Your attic, basement, or walls are the perfect shelter.
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Limited Food Outdoors – With crops harvested and natural food sources dwindling, rats and mice turn to homes for an easy meal.
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Increased Nesting Activity – Before winter sets in, rodents are busy preparing safe nesting areas and gathering food.
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Easy Access Points – Tiny cracks, gaps under doors, or openings around utility lines are all it takes for a mouse or rat to slip inside.
In short, your home becomes one of the most attractive places for rodents once fall arrives.
Risks of Rodents in Your Home
Rodents aren’t just a nuisance — they pose real risks to your health and property:
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Health Concerns – Rats and mice can spread diseases like Salmonella and Hantavirus, and their droppings can trigger allergies and asthma.
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Property Damage – Their constant gnawing can damage insulation, wood, and even electrical wires — creating fire hazards.
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Food Contamination – Kitchens and pantries are prime targets, and once food is contaminated, it must be thrown out.
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Peace of Mind – Scratching noises at night, droppings in the kitchen, and strange odors can quickly make your home feel uncomfortable.
Signs You May Have Rats or Mice
Not sure if rodents are already in your home? Watch for these telltale signs:
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Droppings near food, baseboards, or storage areas
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Gnaw marks on wood, boxes, or food packaging
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Scratching or scurrying sounds at night in walls or ceilings
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Nesting materials like shredded paper or insulation
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Greasy rub marks along walls and baseboards
If you spot even one of these signs, chances are the problem is bigger than it looks.
Prevention Tips for Homeowners
You can take steps now to reduce your risk of a rodent infestation:
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Seal cracks, gaps, and holes around the foundation, windows, and doors.
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Store food — including pet food — in airtight containers.
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Keep firewood, leaf piles, and debris at least 20 feet away from the home.
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Clean kitchens and pantries regularly, wiping up crumbs and spills.
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Trim shrubs, vines, and tree branches touching the home’s exterior.
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Schedule a professional inspection for early detection and peace of mind.
Why Choose STL Pest Control
When rodents invade, it’s not just about removing them — it’s about solving the problem at its source. Here’s why St. Louis homeowners trust us:
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Local Expertise – We’ve served the St. Louis community since 1989.
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Proven Solutions – Our treatments target the entire infestation, not just a few rodents.
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Safe for Families and Pets – We use methods that protect your loved ones while eliminating pests.
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Honest Pricing – No gimmicks, no hidden agenda, just straightforward service.
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Fast Response – We offer same-day or next-day service when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I have rats or mice?
A: Our technicians can quickly determine the type of rodent and the extent of the infestation.
Q: Can I handle rodents on my own?
A: DIY traps may catch one or two, but they rarely solve the problem. Professional treatment addresses the root cause and prevents re-infestation.
Q: Are your treatments safe for my kids and pets?
A: Yes. We use safe, proven techniques designed with your family in mind.
Q: How fast can you come out?
A: We provide same-day or next-day service throughout St. Louis and the surrounding areas.
Don’t Let Rodents Take Over This Fall
Rats and mice don’t wait until winter — they’re looking for a way into your home right now. Protect your property, your family, and your peace of mind with help from STL Pest Control.
📞 Call STL Pest Control today to schedule your rodent inspection and treatment. One call is all it takes to keep your home rodent-free this fall.