Record facts rather than numbers
Note the location, time and direction of travel. Repeated sightings in the same place may help identify a route. Avoid estimating an infestation size from one animal or relying on the time of day as a diagnosis.
Check the surrounding conditions
Look from a safe distance for open rubbish, food spills and accessible shelter. Keep children and pets away from suspected activity. An inspection can combine these observations with droppings, damage and access points to build a more reliable picture and recommend a proportionate response.
Use repeat observations carefully
Several sightings along the same fence may involve one route, not several separate entry points. Mark the observations on a simple garden plan and leave interpretation to the inspection. This keeps the evidence useful without turning every appearance into a new estimate of population size.
Help for your property
Rapid Response Pest Control covers Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian. Tell us your postcode, what you have noticed and which areas are affected so we can discuss a suitable inspection.
Call 0131 440 3263Or email pestcontrolrapidresponse@gmail.com with your enquiry.