When it comes to pests, rats and mice are some of the most adaptable of all.

If you think you may have a potential rodent problem, its good to know about some of the foods that attract mice.

Whether it’s something growing in your garden or hiding in your trashcan, eliminating a tempting food source can help to keep rodents at bay. Check out these eight foods that can attract mice, rodents, and more.

1. A Variety of Plants

Many creatures in the animal kingdom love to munch on plants and the same goes for mice and rats. While there’s no one particular plant these rodents love, there are some things you can do to mitigate the problem.

If you have a lot of excess weeds growing near your home, clear them out as soon as possible. Keep any vegetable gardens protected by adding a greenhouse or cover.

And, if there are plants growing near your foundation, it’s time to get rid of them. Plants that are close to your home will only lure the pesky rodents inside.

2. Delicious Seeds and Grains

Rodents absolutely adore a wide range of various seeds and grains. For the average homeowner, this means you should keep any of these food products safely stored in an airtight container.

If you love to dole out bird seed, be aware that it also attracts these rodents. Mice and rats have even been known to raid bird feeders!

If you keep grains stored outside, just make sure they are properly contained. Pay close attention to any new rodent activity, and see if it’s related to grains and seeds.

3. Fruits and Berries are Foods That Attract Mice

Rodents actually love things that are sweet and juicy. Wild mice love things like raspberries and blackberries.

If you have any type of fruit growing outside, rodents will consume them any time they get the chance. They’ll even chow down on fruits that have rotted and fallen off the vine.

Even fruit trees can lure rodents near. This includes everything from apple and peach to pear trees. Check your yard for any rotted fruit and throw it away as soon as possible.

4. Meat is Another Favorite

When it comes to foods that attract mice, meat probably isn’t at the top of your list. The desire for meat can actually vary greatly amongst the various rodent species.

In general, most rodents prefer seeds and grains, but almost every rodent is an omnivore which means it’ll also enjoy a bit of meat. Rats are more prone to eating meat than mice.

To reduce the threat, always throw any meat away in a tied-up trash bag or another container. The smell of meat can lure rodents closer, so it’s prudent that you make sure any discarded meat is disposed of properly.

5. Pet Food is a Treat

You’ve probably seen a few videos where raccoons sneak into a garage and eat the pet’s food. Rodents like mice and rats are also huge fans of these crunchy treats.

It doesn’t matter what type of pet you have. Rodents will be drawn to any kind of pet food whether it’s for your cat, dog, bird, or even fish.

Avoid feeding your pets in the garage if you can. The smell will attract rodents to come closer which could eventually lead them right into your home.

6. Sweet and Salty Snacks

When you think of sweet and salty treats, rodents are probably the furthest thing from your mind. The truth is, mice and rats love a variety of human favorites.

Some of the most popular snacks that rodents enjoy include beef jerky, candy, and even chocolate. Mice in particular love anything that’s high in sugar, protein, or salt.

Always keep your favorite snacks stored securely. When you toss anything in the garbage, just ensure that it’s sealed in a bag so their little noses won’t be tempted to dive into your trashcan.

7. Rodents Go Nuts for Nuts

From walnuts to peanuts, rodents absolutely adore anything in the nut family. They’ll even go after processed nut products like peanut butter.

Thanks to their high protein content, nuts are often sought out by mice and rats. They will eat everything from sunflower seeds to cashews and hazelnuts.

Just make sure you keep any nutty snacks sealed in their original container. If you like to stock up on these salty snacks, just keep them safely stored in a dry area inside your home and not in the garage.

8. Everything Else

Since mice and rats are really more scavengers than hunters, it’s in their DNA to scour for any kind of food source. Even if you have something like old scraps of leather lying around, rodents will likely seek it out.

When it comes to chewing on everyday items, you may notice gnaw marks on anything from cardboard boxes to paper or electrical wiring. In these cases, the mice or rats are simply using the material to construct their nest.

It’s almost impossible to keep everything you own away from rodents. Just be sure you do your due diligence and check your garage, foundation, and pantry every once in a while.

Throw trash away in a sanitary manner, and never leave food scraps or pet food out where rodents can get easy access.

Don’t Tempt Those Pesky Rodents

Once you know more about foods that attract mice, you can be more proactive in trying to prevent them from getting into your home. Be aware that these sneaky rodents love a variety of items that most humans enjoy, too.

With a bit of preparation and understanding, you can keep mice and rats from invading your space.

For more information about the house mouse and a variety of other pests, be sure to visit our website.