If you live in a wooded area, you most likely encounter a variety of nature's creatures when outdoors. While it is exciting to see animals in their natural habitat, it is not as fun to see them inside of your home. Since mice are abundant in rural areas, it is necessary to protect your home from a rodent infestation. Here are some steps you can take around your home to keep mice on the exterior of the building.

Take Time To Fill In Voids Appropriately

It is extremely important to make it hard for mice to get inside of your home. If there are cracks or holes present on the exterior of your home, winning a battle against mice will most likely necessitate the use of pesticides, traps, and possibly a visit from a professional pest service like Albemarle Termite & Pest Control. Do an evaluation of the exterior of your home in its entirety to find any voids that need filling or covering. Caulk can be used to fill in smaller areas, while pieces of flashing can be used to cover larger ones. Make sure to check around your windows and doors, as these can also be entryways rodents use to get inside of your home.

Scare Mice With Visual Additions Outdoors

If a mouse feels it is in danger, it will vacate the area immediately. Make mice feel as if they are threatened with the addition of large bird of prey decoys in your yard. A plastic owl or hawk can be positioned in a tree or on your rooftop to help keep mice away from your home. They will also serve as interesting conversation pieces to those who visit. Mice tend to shy away from areas that smell like peppermint. For this reason, the addition of some potted peppermint plants on your porch or around the perimeter of the home will be successful in keeping mice at a distance.

Make Your Property Less Enticing For Rodents

A property with plenty of hiding spots will be likely to be filled with intruders. Make sure to mow your lawn regularly to minimize areas where mice can hide. Trim back tree limbs so mice cannot use them as bridges to your home. If you have a wood pile on your property, make sure it is positioned in an area where it is out of view of your home. This will aid in keeping rodents from making their way to your structure. The addition of gravel around the perimeter of your home can be helpful in keeping mice from getting too close to your siding, making it less likely they will get close enough to look for a way inside.