Those Hidden Eggs Could Lead To A Rodent Problem

Year after year easter eggs are tossed into grasses and many other spaces where they can go unseen in hopes that children will find them. Backyards, parks, culdesacs, and even inside homes get littered with easter eggs as kids await the cue that they can come out in search of candy-filled eggs. The excitement is felt by many but what you may not know is that those hidden eggs could lead to a rodent problem, especially in the Pacific Northwest where eggs can easily rot.

What Candies Are Commonly Found In Easter Eggs

It seems that almost everyone enjoys those special holiday candies that come out in each particular season and easter candy is certainly one of those seasons where everyone has their favorite candy. Some of the top ranking easter candies that are commonly found in easter eggs according to Instacart this year are Cadbury Creme Eggs, Resse’s Peanut Butter Eggs, Starburst’s Easter Jelly Beans, Cadbury Chocolate Mini Eggs, Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Kisses, M&M’s Easter Milk Chocolate Candy, Brach’s Jelly Bird Eggs, Peeps Marshmellow Chicks and Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Candy Eggs. That’s a lot of candy and there are definitely some classics in this mix.

Why Would Rodents Be Attracted To Easter Eggs

Scavengers are animals that consume dead organisms. They play an important role in the ecosystem in that they start the process of getting rid of waste before decomposers and detritivores complete the process. Rodents are one pest that functions as a scavenger. Since they are omnivorous they will eat pretty much anything which is why old easter eggs, especially the real ones, are so attractive to them.

If dyed eggs are left out they will rot within a few days depending on the outside temperatures causing strong scents within the surrounding area. Both rats and mice have a keen sense of smell so it doesn’t take much for them to smell rotting food or just food in general. Once they pick up on the scent they are likely to go looking for it and if discovered they will look around for more. When rodents find a reliable food source they are prone to stick around since they thrive on food to survive.

Why Do Rodents Want To Live In My House

Rodents are warm-blooded animals so it makes sense that they prefer warm living spaces. If rats and mice come across food sources like pet food, chicken feed, bird seed or open trash containers they perceive this as a smorgasbord. Add in the fact that there are probably ample spaces to hide like large shrubs and wood piles; its easy for them to see your home as a suitable living space.

If they decide to stick around they will then begin to look for areas that they can nest. One female mouse can have up to 56 pups in one year while an adult female rat averages about 40 per year. Knowing this, one can see why it’s important for these pests to find proper nesting space and since rodents are highly social creatures a nest can quickly grow in size before a homeowner would even notice.

Tips To Keep Rodents Away

• Keep Trash Bin Lids Secured
• Store Wood Piles Away From The Home
• Trim Large Shrubs And Bushes
• Trim Back Tree Limbs
• Do Not Leave Food Out
• Make Sure Crawlspace Vents Are Sealed
• Seal All Exterior Cracks And Crevices

If you suspect you have a rodent problem its best to get in touch with your local pest control agent in Vancouver or Portland metro areas. Pest professionals have a keen eye for what to look for when it comes to rodent activity around your property.