When most people think about a rat infestation, they picture cold, damp winter months. But in reality, a rat infestation in summer is just as likely—if not more. The warmer weather may bring longer evenings and BBQs in the garden, but it also creates perfect conditions for rats to thrive. If you’re not careful, your home or business could become an unintended hotspot for rodents.
Why Rats Are Active in Summer
Unlike winter, when rats are mainly looking for warmth and shelter, summer offers them something even more appealing: food. Outdoor eating, unsecured bins, compost piles, and leftover pet food are all highly attractive to hungry rodents. With more people leaving windows and doors open during warmer days, rats often find easy to infest your home or premise in summer.
Summer is also peak breeding season. With longer days and higher temperatures, rats reproduce quickly and aggressively. A single pair can produce hundreds of offspring in just a few months, turning a minor issue into a full-blown rat infestation in summer.
Signs of a Summer Rat Infestation
Think you might have rats on your property? Look out for these common signs of a rat infestation in summer:
- Droppings – Small, dark droppings in kitchens, sheds, or near bins
- Gnaw marks – Damage to wood, food packaging, cables, or garden furniture
- Nests – Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden areas
- Scratching noises – Especially at night in walls, ceilings, or under floors
- Grease trails – Oily smudge marks along baseboards and entry points
- Unusual smells – A strong ammonia-like odour caused by urine
How to Prevent A Rat Infestation in Summer
Stopping rats before they get inside is the most effective way to stay protected. Here’s how to reduce your risk:
- Seal entry points – Block gaps under doors, cracks in walls, and holes around pipes
- Keep outdoor areas tidy – Clear rubbish, trim back overgrown plants, and store firewood away from buildings
- Secure your bins – Use tight-fitting lids and avoid overfilling
- Clean up after eating outdoors – Remove leftover food, clean BBQs, and avoid leaving crumbs overnight
- Store food properly – Keep pet food, birdseed, and pantry items in airtight containers
- Remove water sources – Fix leaking outdoor taps and bring in pet bowls overnight
Don’t Wait for a Rat Problem to Get Worse
Rats are clever, adaptable, and fast breeders. The longer you wait, the harder they are to remove. Whether you’re already seeing signs of a rat infestation in summer or simply want peace of mind, it’s best to act early. At All Pests, we offer professional, discreet, and effective rat control services to help you stay protected through the warmer months and beyond.
Contact us today for expert advice or to schedule a site inspection—and enjoy your summer without any unwanted visitors.