SHREWS

Primary Seasons: Spring, Summer

Shrews are small, mouse-like mammals, that can thrive in almost any habit including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. Their diet is nothing short of impressive as they devour insects, worms, snails, and various small invertebrates, consuming their body weight in food every day to keep up with their high metabolic rate. 

While these tiny creatures play a crucial role in controlling insect populations within ecosystems, they can become a nuisance when they venture into our homes and gardens in search of sustenance.

Shrews are closely related to moles and hedgehogs, matching their unique digging characteristics. With their pointed snouts, small eyes, and five clawed toes on each foot, shrews have a distinct appearance.

WHAT ATTRACTS SHREWS TO YOUR YARD?

Shrews are always on the lookout for the perfect spot to call home. Here are three environmental factors that make them flock to your yard:

1. Lots Of Insects - Shrews are enticed by yards bustling with insect activity, as they thrive on a diet of insects, worms, and small invertebrates.
2. Dense Vegetation - A yard with abundant vegetation provides shrews with cover and nesting opportunities. If your yard has overgrown areas, untrimmed bushes, and dense shrubbery, it offers an ideal hiding place for shrews.
3. Free Resources - Factors like standing water extra clutter, and untrimmed vegetation can also create attractive environments for shrews. Standing water, such as puddles or poorly drained areas, can be inviting to shrews as they require water sources for survival. A yard with clutter or debris may also attract shrews, as these materials can provide shelter and nesting materials. 

By addressing these factors and seeking assistance from Madsen Pest Management, you can create an environment less appealing to shrews and effectively prevent their intrusion.

HOW TO PREVENT SHREWS

Preventing shrews from invading your yard is key to avoiding the damage they can cause. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

1. Landscape Maintenance: Trim bushes, shrubs, and overgrown vegetation to reduce hiding spots for shrews. Regularly mow your lawn and keep it well-maintained to discourage their presence.
2. Reduce Insect Activity: Since shrews are drawn to areas with ample insect activity, implement pest control measures to minimize the insect population in your yard. This can include removing standing water, sealing trash cans tightly, and addressing any pest infestations promptly.
3. Remove Clutter: Clear away debris, piles of leaves, and woodpiles that could serve as hiding places for shrews. By reducing potential shelter, you make your yard less attractive to these creatures.
4. Fencing: Install a barrier such as a fine-mesh fence that extends below the ground to deter shrews from burrowing into your yard.
5. Natural Repellents: Consider using natural repellents like peppermint oil, garlic, or castor oil. These scents can be off-putting to shrews and may discourage them from entering your yard.
6. Pet Food and Bird Feeders: Avoid leaving pet food or birdseed outdoors, as these can attract both shrews and the insects they feed on. If you have outdoor pets, clean up their food promptly after feeding.
7. Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your yard for signs of shrew activity, such as burrows or tunnels. If you notice any, it's essential to address the issue promptly.
8. Summon The Experts - If your shrew problem persists or if you prefer to leave it to the experts, we suggest calling in a team of pros to deal with your shrew invasion.

When faced with the presence of invading pests, trust the skilled team at Madsen Pest to come to your rescue. Our dedicated professionals follow a meticulous process to eliminate your pest problem and restore peace to your property.

MADSEN METHOD: