As temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, homeowners in San Jose begin to prepare for the cooler months—cozy blankets, warm drinks, and maybe even a fireplace roaring in the background. But while you’re making your home more comfortable, something else might be eyeing your living space as prime real estate: rodents.

Every fall and winter, rodents like mice and rats begin seeking shelter, food, and warmth—three things your home provides in abundance. At Citra Pest Control, we’ve seen firsthand just how common infestations become in the colder seasons. Let’s break down why rodents are so drawn to San Jose homes during this time of year, and what you can do to keep them out.

Why Rodents Become a Problem in Cooler Weather

Rodents are resourceful creatures, and their survival instincts kick into high gear as temperatures fall. Here’s what draws them to your home in the fall and winter:

1. Shelter from the Cold

Just like humans, rodents want to stay warm during the chilly months. In San Jose, while winters are mild compared to other areas, nighttime temperatures can dip low enough to drive rodents indoors. Your attic, basement, crawlspace, and even your walls can provide the perfect refuge.

2. A Steady Food Supply

Rodents are opportunistic feeders. Once their natural outdoor food sources begin to dwindle in the fall, they start looking elsewhere. Homes often offer easy access to grains, pet food, leftovers, and pantry items. Even crumbs and food spills can be enough to keep rodents around.

3. Access to Water

Rodents also need a reliable water source to survive. Leaky pipes, condensation under appliances, pet water bowls, or even clogged gutters can provide all the moisture they need. San Jose homes that aren’t well-maintained can become perfect hydration stations for unwanted guests.

4. Easy Entry Points

Older homes, unsealed crawlspaces, broken vent screens, gaps around doors and windows, and even chimneys can serve as open doors to rodents. They can squeeze through holes as small as a dime (mice) or a quarter (rats), making it easy for them to sneak inside.

Signs You Have a Rodent Visitor

Whether you live in Willow Glen, Almaden Valley, or downtown San Jose, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of a rodent infestation before it worsens. Keep an eye out for:

• Droppings near food or along walls
• Chewed wires, cardboard, or insulation
• Scratching or squeaking sounds in the walls, especially at night
• Nests made of shredded paper or fabric
• Greasy rub marks along baseboards or beams

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to call in the professionals at Citra Pest Control for a thorough inspection.

Why Rodents Are More Than Just a Nuisance

You may think that seeing one mouse or rat isn’t a big deal, but rodents can cause significant problems for your home and health:

• Health risks: Rodents can carry diseases like hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospirosis. They can contaminate food and surfaces with their droppings and urine.
• Allergies and asthma: Rodent dander and waste can trigger respiratory issues, especially in children or sensitive individuals.
• Fire hazards: Rodents chew on electrical wires, which can lead to dangerous house fires.
• Structural damage: Rats and mice gnaw on wood, insulation, and drywall, leading to costly repairs over time.

Preventing Rodent Infestations This Fall and Winter

Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to rodent-proof your San Jose home this season:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect the exterior of your home and seal gaps, cracks, and holes with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh.
• Store Food Properly: Use airtight containers for pantry goods and pet food, and avoid leaving food out overnight.
• Eliminate Moisture: Fix leaks, empty pet water bowls at night, and ensure proper ventilation in attics and crawlspaces.
• Clean Regularly: Don’t let crumbs accumulate. Vacuum often and wipe down counters to eliminate food residue.
• Trim Landscaping: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from the house to eliminate rodent highways to your roof or attic.

If prevention efforts aren’t enough—or if you already have a problem—it’s time to bring in the experts at Citra Pest Control.

Why Choose Citra Pest Control?

With years of experience serving San Jose and surrounding communities, Citra Pest Control is your go-to solution for year-round pest and rodent protection. We understand the behavior and habits of rodents in the Bay Area and use eco-friendly, safe, and effective methods to eliminate infestations and prevent future problems.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Comprehensive home inspections
• Customized rodent control plans
• Sealing and exclusion services
• Follow-up support to ensure long-term result

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Rodents are more than a seasonal nuisance—they’re a serious threat to your home and health. With fall and winter approaching, now is the time to be proactive.

If you suspect you have rodents or want to prevent them from invading your San Jose home this season, contact Citra Pest Control today. We’re here to help you stay rodent-free all year long.