Rodent Control In Cape Coral, FL

FAQs About Rodent Control

What are the most common rodents found in Cape Coral homes?

In our area, the most frequent invaders are Roof Rats (also known as Palm Rats) and, to a lesser extent, Norway Rats and House Mice. Roof Rats are particularly troublesome here because they are excellent climbers. They often live in palm trees and use overhanging branches to access roofs, where they then find their way into attics and soffits.

How do I know if I have rats in my attic?

The most common sign is hearing scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds coming from the ceiling, especially at night when rodents are most active. You might also find insulation that has been disturbed or shredded, droppings that look like dark grains of rice, or even grease marks (rub marks) on entry points near the roofline.

Can rodents really cause fires in my home?

Yes, this is a serious risk. Rodents have teeth that never stop growing, so they constantly chew on hard materials to file them down. Unfortunately, this often includes the protective casing of electrical wiring inside walls and attics. Exposed wires can short-circuit or spark, potentially igniting surrounding insulation or wood framing.

Is it safe to use rodent poison if I have pets?

Safety is our top priority. While rodenticides can be effective, they pose risks if not used correctly. We strictly adhere to safety protocols and use tamper-resistant bait stations that keep poisons inaccessible to dogs, cats, and children. We also focus heavily on trapping and exclusion (sealing the home) to solve the problem with minimal reliance on chemicals inside the living space.

Why do I need professional help instead of just buying traps?

Store-bought traps can catch a few unwary rodents, but they rarely solve an infestation. Rodents are intelligent and wary of new objects ("neophobic"). Professionals understand their behavior and placement strategies. More importantly, we identify how they are getting in. Without professional exclusion—sealing the entry points—new rodents will simply replace the ones you catch.

How long does it take to get rid of a rodent infestation?

The timeline varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of the property. A typical treatment plan involves an initial inspection and setup, followed by follow-up visits to check traps and monitor activity. While we can often remove the active population relatively quickly, ensuring the home is fully sealed and pest-free is a process that we manage carefully to prevent recurrence.