Winter Pests: Why do I need rodent control?

As the cold sets in across NSW and the ACT, many pests retreat. Insects and other seasonal nuisances often go dormant, especially in colder regions like Canberra. In milder climates including Sydney, Newcastle, the Central Coast, and Illawarra, pest activity might slow, but it rarely stops completely. 

Ants slow down. Mosquitoes, flies and wasps stop buzzing.  

But rodents? They move in. 

Rats and mice don’t hibernate  

Rodents remain active all year, but winter pushes them indoors in search of: 

• Warmth – Roof spaces, wall voids, and subfloors offer ideal insulation 
• Food – Even a few crumbs or unsealed bins are enough 
• Shelter – Cardboard boxes and cluttered storage make perfect nests 

Whether it’s a home, shopfront, garage, or storeroom — your property becomes the ideal hideout. Rodents are resourceful, and once they’re in, they’re not leaving quietly.  

Mice vs Rats: Who is the biggest pest?  

Rats are typically the bigger threat due to their size, aggression, and destructive habits — but mice shouldn’t be underestimated. They’re harder to spot early and multiply quickly. 

Here’s a quick comparison: 

Trait	Mice	Rats
Size	Small (5–10cm body)	Larger (up to 25cm body)
Behaviour	Curious, fast, hard to detect early	Aggressive, more destructive
Nesting Sites	Wall voids, under appliances, behind clutter	Roof spaces, subfloors, sheds, wall cavities
Damage Risk	Minor gnawing, fast breeders	Major damage – chew wiring, insulation, contaminate food
Entry Points	Tiny gaps, holes the size of a pencil	Gaps as small as a 20c coin

Why should I be concerned?  

Rodents can cause significant damage and health hazards, especially if left unchecked: 

• Spread illness through droppings and urine  
• Contaminate stored food  
• Chew through electrical wires (a fire risk) 
• Destroy insulation and structural materials 

How do I know if I have a rodent problem?  

• Noises at night – Scratching or scurrying in walls or ceilings. 
• Gnaw marks – On food packaging, wiring, or furniture. 
• Droppings – Dark, rice-shaped; smaller for mice, larger for rats. 
• Rub marks & odours – Greasy smudges on walls or skirting; strong ammonia smell. 
• Nests or burrows – Found in wall voids, garages, sheds, under decks, or in gardens. 

Spot the signs? Don’t wait—book a winter inspection today. 

How do I stay rodent free this winter?  

Here’s your winter rodent prevention checklist  

• Seal it up: Check for gaps around doors, vents, pipes — rodents don’t need much. 
• Store smarter: Lock away food, including pet food, and avoid open bins. 
• Declutter: Less mess means fewer hiding spots. 
• Fix the leaks: Moisture = a rodent magnet. 
• Call in the experts: If you’re hearing noises or finding droppings, don’t wait.  

Smarter, Safer Pest Control  

At Precision Pest Control, we know rodents don’t take winter off — and neither do we. 

With over 30 years of experience across NSW and the ACT, we’re trusted by homeowners and businesses alike to protect what matters. Whether it’s roof rats in Rozelle or mice in Maitland, our local technicians know how to find them, stop them, and prevent them from coming back. 

We use eco-friendly, low-toxicity treatments that are safe for families, pets, and commercial spaces — with no compromise on results. 

If you’re searching for rodent pest control near home, or wondering how to get rid of rodents in your walls, you’re in the right place. 

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