When Are Rodents Most Active in Los Angeles?
Unlike colder climates where rodents have distinct seasonal patterns, Los Angeles' mild year-round weather means rats are always active. However, certain times of year see dramatic increases in infestations. Here's what to expect each season and how to stay protected.
Fall (September - November)
Peak rodent season in LA. As temperatures drop slightly and food sources become scarce, rats actively seek warm shelter. This is when most infestations begin.
What Rats Are Doing:
- Rats search for warm nesting sites before winter
- Increased breeding activity to prepare for cooler months
- Food sources in yards (fallen fruit, seeds) attract rodents
- Entry points become more visible as vegetation dies back
Prevention Steps:
- Schedule professional inspection in early September
- Seal all entry points before October
- Remove fallen fruit from trees immediately
- Trim vegetation away from roofline
Winter (December - February)
Rats stay indoors where it's warm. While LA winters are mild, rodents still prefer the comfort of your attic and walls. Breeding continues year-round in heated homes.
What Rats Are Doing:
- Established populations breed continuously indoors
- Rats rarely leave once they've found warm shelter
- Activity concentrated in attics, walls, and crawl spaces
- Damage to insulation increases as nests expand
Prevention Steps:
- Monitor for increased scratching sounds at night
- Check attic insulation for damage
- Ensure exclusion work is holding up
- Keep garage doors closed to prevent entry
Spring (March - May)
Baby boom season. Rats that nested in fall/winter now have multiple litters. Populations can explode if not controlled. Young rats begin exploring and finding new nesting sites.
What Rats Are Doing:
- Multiple litters born from winter breeding
- Young rats become independent and seek new territories
- Increased activity as rats explore outdoors
- New entry points created as rats expand territory
Prevention Steps:
- Inspect for new entry points as rats expand
- Look for signs of increased population
- Remove outdoor food sources (pet food, bird seed)
- Consider professional monitoring service
Summer (June - August)
Rats are more active outdoors but still nest indoors. LA's dry summers drive rats to seek water sources. Fruit trees attract roof rats to yards and eventually into homes.
What Rats Are Doing:
- Rats seek water sources during dry months
- Fruit trees (especially citrus) attract roof rats
- Outdoor activity increases but indoor nesting continues
- Rats use tree branches as highways to roofs
Prevention Steps:
- Fix all outdoor water leaks and drips
- Harvest fruit promptly, remove fallen fruit daily
- Trim tree branches 6+ feet from roofline
- Secure outdoor trash cans with tight lids
LA-Specific Factor: Year-Round Breeding
Unlike colder climates where rodents only breed seasonally, LA's mild weather allows rats to breed continuously year-round. A single pair can produce:
- 5-10 litters per year (vs 3-4 in colder climates)
- 6-12 babies per litter that reach maturity in 6-8 weeks
- 1,000+ descendants in one year from a single pair
This is why early intervention is critical in Los Angeles. What seems like a small problem can explode into a major infestation in just weeks.
Don't Wait for Peak Season
The best time to protect your home is before rodents move in. Schedule your inspection today.
Year-round protection available