With Halloween approaching, many people around the world are planning to decorate their homes with lights, witches' webs, and carved pumpkins.
But experts warn that some of these decorations could attract unwanted four-legged users to your door.
Decoration specialists advise reviewing your plans before placing all the scary elements, as they can attract mice, rats, and even spiders.
Carved pumpkins are a major problem
After a day or two, carved pumpkins begin to take on a sweet, nutty aroma that can attract unwanted critters.
Bright porch lighting also attracts flying insects, which can then bring in spiders, while fake nets can trap small insects.
“Halloween is all about fear and excitement, but a mouse infestation isn’t the kind of scare anyone wants,” says a spokesperson for Quote My Wall. “A few simple precautions can help you enjoy the holiday without worrying about unwanted guests sneaking in.”
Tips to avoid the problem
Bring pumpkins inside at night or place them away from doors and windows.
Replace porch lights with warm or yellow LEDs and avoid fake spider webs.
Keep sweets covered and clean up any spills immediately to avoid odors that attract animals.
According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) in the US, rats can transmit disease and prevention is key. Dr. Jim Fredericks, Vice President of NPMA, warns:
“Mice can get into your home through holes smaller than a dime, and rats through larger spaces. They don’t care about the condition of your home – if there’s food and shelter, they’ll try to get in.”
Experts recommend:
Close all possible entrances and openings.
Remove clutter and regularly check for droppings, chewed wires, or nesting materials.
“The most effective prevention occurs before the first signs of a problem appear,” adds Dr. Fredericks.
Rat population growth this year
Residents in the UK have been warned of an increase in rat activity due to a season rich in almonds and tree nuts. Experts say this could trigger a new wave of rat activity, which is taking advantage of the extra food supplies.
Hunters also report catching rats exceeding 50cm in length in some areas, describing the situation as a "terrible infestation".
How smart are mice?
Rats are very social animals, connected to each other and can form bonds with humans.
They can feel empathetic and respond to the pain of others.
Studies have shown that when rats were shaken, they produced sounds similar to human laughter.
They are extremely clean and take care of themselves regularly.
Research from New York University showed that when people are scared during the day, they relive fear memories during sleep to learn and retain the information.
Rats maintain "mental maps" of the environment they explore and can remember the routes they take as if in a dream.
Other studies showed that rats help each other in exchange for favors, showing a type of social intelligence very similar to humans. /GazetaExpress/
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