How Do You Control Rats in Cold Areas?

Rodents, Reptiles & Bats
1

Hi everyone!

I live in ​​northern Minnesota​​, where winters drop to -20°F, and rats are invading my garage and attic for warmth! I’ve tried snap traps, but they’re breeding faster than I can catch them. Need cold-climate-specific solutions!

​​Background:​​

  • Rats chew through insulation and wiring.
  • I avoid poisons to protect local owls and foxes.
  • Are there ​​cold-resistant traps​​ or natural deterrents?
2

Use ​​steel wool + duct seal​​ for gaps, rats can’t chew through metal. Set ​​heated snap traps​ near entry points. Bait with peanut butter, it won’t freeze solid!

3

Peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls in attics! Rats hate the smell. Refresh weekly.

4

Heated traps? Where do I buy those? Regular ones freeze shut here! @ArcticExterminator

5

Amazon sells battery-powered thermal traps. Or DIY: Place traps near HVAC vents. Rats seek heat, works like a magnet!

6

Rats don’t hibernate, they’re more active in winter! Seal ALL gaps bigger than a dime. Use motion-activated lights in garages, they bolt from brightness.

7

Sprinkle used cat litter around the perimeter. Smell scares rats. No cat? Ask a neighbor for litter, works better than store-bought repellents!

8

I built bucket traps with antifreeze (non-toxic propylene glycol). Rats fall in, can’t climb out. Check daily, ethical if done humanely.

9

Avoid expanding foam alone, it cracks in cold. Layer steel wool + foam. Install owl boxes, snowy owls hunt rats all winter. Nature’s pest control!

10

Rats avoid open snow. Shovel paths around your home to expose them to predators. No cover = no rats!