Which Rodents Are Most Active in Central Florida: What Homeowners Need to Know
While many parts of the country see rodent activity slow down in winter, Central Florida is a different story. Thanks to our mild climate, rodents remain active year-round—but January through March is a time when homeowners often notice an increase in rodent activity inside homes.
Cooler nights, reduced outdoor food sources, and seasonal weather changes drive rodents to seek warmth, shelter, and reliable food, often bringing them uncomfortably close to people.
Why Rodents Are Active in Winter in Central Florida
Unlike northern states with freezing temperatures, Central Florida winters are relatively mild. However, even slight drops in temperature can influence rodent behavior. During January–March, rodents are more likely to:
Move indoors for warmer, stable environments
Seek shelter from cold fronts, rain, and wind
Search for consistent food sources
Nest in attics, wall voids, garages, and crawl spaces
These conditions make late winter and early spring a common time for infestations to become noticeable.
The Most Active Rodents in Central Florida
Roof Rats
Roof rats are the most active and problematic rodent for Central Florida homeowners during this time of year.
Why they’re a concern:
Excellent climbers that access homes via rooflines, trees, and power lines
Commonly nest in attics, soffits, and upper wall voids
Increased movement when outdoor food sources (like fruit) decline
Signs of roof rats include:
Scratching or scurrying sounds at night in ceilings
Droppings in attics or along rafters
Gnawed wiring or insulation
Rub marks along beams or entry points
Roof rats are primarily nocturnal, so activity is usually heard after dark.
Norway Rats
Norway rats are also active year-round but tend to increase movement when outdoor conditions become less favorable.
Typical behaviors:
Ground-dwelling rodents
Found near foundations, garages, crawl spaces, and sheds
Burrow in soil or hide beneath debris
They may move closer to homes during winter rains or cooler nights, especially when food sources are nearby.
House Mice
House mice are small, adaptable, and active every month of the year, including January through March.
Why they’re hard to detect:
Can squeeze through openings as small as ¼ inch
Need very little food or water
Often nest inside walls, cabinets, or behind appliances
Because of their size and speed, mice are often the first rodents homeowners notice indoors when temperatures cool.
Signs of Rodent Activity to Watch For
During the winter and early spring months, homeowners should be alert for:
Scratching or movement sounds at night
Droppings in kitchens, pantries, or garages
Chewed wires, insulation, or wood
Greasy rub marks along walls or baseboards
Nests made from shredded paper or insulation
Rodents are mostly nocturnal, so signs may appear even if you never see one directly.
Why Rodents Inside Your Home Are a Serious Problem
While rodents may seem like a nuisance, they pose real risks:
Structural damage from gnawing
Fire hazards from chewed electrical wiring
Health concerns due to droppings and urine
Rapid reproduction, allowing infestations to grow quickly
A small problem in January can turn into a major infestation by spring if left untreated.
How Central Florida Homeowners Can Reduce Rodent Activity
Prevention is key, especially during January–March:
Seal gaps around doors, vents, and utility lines
Trim tree branches away from roofs
Store food in sealed containers
Remove outdoor debris and clutter
Address moisture issues around the home
Schedule regular rodent inspections
Professional exclusion and monitoring can be especially effective during peak activity periods.
Rodents don’t hibernate in Central Florida—and January through March is a prime time for roof rats, Norway rats, and house mice to move closer to homes. Understanding which rodents are most active and why they seek shelter indoors can help homeowners take early action and prevent costly damage.