Rats and Mice in Winter: Why Perth Homes Are at Risk
- yohan57
- 13 minutes ago
- 3 min read
As the temperature drops in Perth, rats and mice begin their seasonal migration, straight into your home, garage or business. Winter in Western Australia mist not be as bitter as other parts of the country, but the drop in temperature is enough to drive rodents indoors in search of warmth, food and shelter.
Why are Rats and Mice a bigger problem in Winter?
Rodents are opportunistic survivors. As natural food sources become scare and the weather turns cold and wet, rats and mice start looking for places that offer:
Reliable good supply (pet food, bird seed, crumbs, pantry goods)
Shelter and warmth (roof voids, walls, sub floors and garages)
Water Sources (leaky taps, pet bowls, drainage)
Perth homes provide the perfect combination of these necessities, particularly older properties or homes with easy access points such as gaps under doors, broken vents or unsealed weep holes.
Common Rodents found in Perth
Roof Rats - Excellent climbers, often found in roof spaces, trees and fence lines.
Norway Rats - Larger and more aggressive, they prefer ground level nesting and are often found in sheds, garages and under decking.
House Mice - Small but highly invasive, they can fit through gaps as small as 6mm
Signs of a Rodent Infestation
During winter, rodent infestations often go unnoticed until serious damage is done. Look out for:
Scratching Noises in walls or ceilings, especially at night.
Droppings that are small, pellet shaped, and found along walls or in cupboards.
Gnaw Marks on food packaging, wires and wood.
Grease Marks from rodent fur along walls and surfaces
Unusual pet behaviour from your furry friends. They can become agitated or more interested in a certain area where they can hear or smell the rodents.
Risks to Your Home and Health
Rodents aren't just a nuisance, they're a serious threat:
Health risks: Rats and mice carry diseases such as Salmonella, Leptospirosis, and Hantavirus. They can contaminate food and preparation surfaces.
Structural damage: Rodents can chew through electrical wires, insulation, and timber, increasing fire risk and repair costs.
Reputation damage: For commercial premises, a rodent sighting can devastate customer trust and trigger health inspections or fines.
Why DIY Doesn’t Cut It in Winter
Many people turn to bait stations and traps bought from hardware stores. But in winter, rodents are desperate and persistent. DIY approaches often:
Miss breeding nests, allowing infestations to rebound quickly.
Fail to identify entry points, allowing continued access.
Leave dangerous bait accessible to pets and children.
Tritan’s Integrated Approach to Rodent Control
At Tritan Pest Management, we take rodent control seriously, especially during the high-risk winter months. Our expert technicians provide:
✅ Thorough inspections of entry points and nesting areas
✅ Customised treatment plans using pet- and child-safe methods
✅ Ongoing monitoring and advice for long-term rodent prevention
Prevention Tips for Perth Homeowners This Winter
While we’re always here to help, here are some simple steps you can take now:
Seal gaps and cracks around your home
Store food (including pet food) in sealed containers
Keep outdoor areas clean and free of rubbish
Trim tree branches away from your roof
Fix leaking taps and eliminate standing water
Need Help Fast? Contact Tritan Pest Management
If you suspect rats or mice are making themselves at home this winter, don’t wait until the damage is done. Call Tritan Pest Management today for a fast, effective, and environmentally responsible solution.
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