Just like people, other creatures have detailed homes decorated just to their liking. While none of us want to see rodents setting up shop in our homes, seeing their nests in nature can give you a little insight into common rodent behaviors.
Welcome to the hidden world of rodent architecture, where intricate designs and clever construction are all in a day's work. Far from the simple burrows many imagine, rodents' nests are complex structures tailored to their environments and survival needs. Let's delve into the world of these tiny architects and uncover the secrets behind their construction prowess.
Masters of Materials - What Rodents Use to Build
Natural Foragers: When it comes to shopping for housing materials, rodents certainly aren't too picky. Discarded hair, shreds of paper, bits of plants, and, if they're lucky, insulation from your home are all used to construct nests.
Recycling Experts: As the saying goes, "One man's trash is another man's treasure." The same goes for rodents; human garbage makes for the perfect material from which to build a home. Discarded plastic, metal wires, and styrofoam can all be used to create a comfy, cozy nest for a rodent.
The Art of Nest Placement
Location, Location, Location: Just like people, rodents shop for the perfect location, too. While they may not be researching the local schools in the area, they certainly are making sure that wherever they choose, they feel safe.
Rodents are looking for areas with little foot traffic that remain mostly out of sight. Out in the world, this might be in trees or ivy, but in homes, it's usually in the attic, crawl spaces, and sometimes in the walls.
Their main goal is to find a place that is close to ample resources, which is why people's homes are such a prominent location for rodents to camp out in. Their goal is to avoid any harsh weather and predators while still having access to food, water, and shelter.
Species Spotlight - Unique Nesting Behaviors
While there are some overarching themes of rodent homes, each rodent has its own unique way of decorating. Here are a few species and their nesting preferences:
Packrats and Mice: The Collectors: We all know that rats and mice are a common issue for homeowners. Even if their nest exists outside your home, it doesn't mean your home won't be subject to a rat raid. They will steal food, garbage, and even parts of the foundation of your home to go out and build their nests, hoarding as much as they can. Rats and mice nests are designed to last for generations, so they store both food and extra nesting material in their dens.
Moles and Voles: The Burrowers: Your lawn might be on your property, but that doesn't stop these freeloaders from coming in and taking over. Moles and voles are different from each other in many ways, but they both have the unique ability to destroy yards with their extensive tunnel systems that weave all throughout your garden.
Squirrels: The Thieves: Another rodent that builds extensive nests, though squirrels don't typically want anything to do with your home. Instead, they want everything to do with your garden. Fruits, nuts, vegetables: if you grow it, they will come. They set up camp in trees and steal as much produce as they can before you ever get the chance to enjoy it yourself.
Structural Secrets - How Rodents Build to Last
Engineering for Survival: Rodents are built to last, which is why they can be so challenging to get rid of. They use durable materials and weave them together to create insulated shelters that can withstand things like water and wind damage.
Thermal Regulation: Using different shreds of materials, rodents weave structures together and collect things in their nest that help regulate temperature all year.
Uncovering Rodents - What To Do If You See Nests in Your Home
While rodents' structures are pretty impressive, that doesn't mean they're a welcome sight in your home. Places like attics, crawlspaces, and other parts of your home that feel secluded are subject to a takeover at any moment.
If you notice torn bits of materials like paper and fabric or see other evidence of a rodent's nest around your property, it's time to get in touch with the experts at Greenix! Our professional pest technicians can help you scout out pesky pests and get rid of them, helping you keep a relaxing, healthy environment.
