The tiny hole rats are using to get into Irish homes amid major Christmas warning

Rats can use holes the size of 20 cent coins to enter your home, an industry warning in the lead-up to Christmas says.

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, has reported a major increase in the number of call-outs in the run-up to the festive period as pests seek shelter indoors to escape the cold.

Rentokil says that "common Christmas preparations such as retrieving decorations from attics, lofts and garages, or setting up Christmas trees can inadvertently invite unwanted pests into homes."

On the latest Rentokil Expert Talk Podcast, it was said that pests are "reproducing rapidly" as they adapt to our behaviours and the mild weather.

The podcast also warns that a mouse can fit under any gap with a circumference of "more than 5 millimetres" so gaps will need to be sealed. A rat, it was also explained, can fit into any gap of "between a 20 and 50 cent coin."

Colm Moore, Regional Technical Manager with Rentokil, commented: “Christmas presents unique pest challenges. Attics, lofts, garages, boxes of decorations, and warm homes can provide the perfect environment for pests seeking shelter and food. Following simple preventative measures, people can protect their homes from pest infestations and enjoy a pest-free festive season. People can learn more at our website or follow the below pest-proofing tips for Christmas.”

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Rentokil’s advice to avoid damage caused by pests:

Inspect decoration boxes before bringing them indoors: Open boxes outside to check for signs of insects or rodents, such as droppings, nesting material or gnaw marks.

Inspect Christmas trees: Both natural and artificial trees can harbour insects and their eggs.

Avoid edible decorations: Replace food-based ornaments like gingerbread people or candy canes with non-edible alternatives.

Declutter regularly: Dispose of wrapping paper, packaging, and old items to reduce hiding places for pests.

Inspect attics, lofts and storage areas: Check for signs of pest activity, such as droppings, nests, or chewed materials.

Rodent-proof your home: Consider professional solutions such as Flexi Armour barriers for long-term protection.

Key pests to watch out for during Christmas preparations include:

Rats and Mice
Cluster Flies
Textile Moths and Wood Boring Beetles
Birds’ Nests
Squirrels