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Rats are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night, typically from late evening through the early morning. They use the cover of darkness to explore, forage for food, and find water, as they feel safer and can avoid daytime predators and human activity. Their sharp senses, including keen night vision and hearing, are well-suited for navigating in the dark. Because they prefer to stay hidden during the day in secluded areas like walls or attics, you are more likely to spot signs of their presence—such as droppings or gnaw marks—before you see an actual rat.

Yes, termites in your yard can be something to be concerned about, especially if they’re close to your home. While not all outdoor colonies pose an immediate threat, termites can move from wood piles, tree stumps, or mulch, eventually making their way to your home’s structure. If you see mud tubes, damaged wood, or swarming activity, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional termite inspection to prevent potential infestation.

If a small hive is far enough from your home and doesn’t seem to pose a threat to the health of anyone, then you can opt to leave it alone. They are still pollinators; if you have a garden, they’ll tackle some gardening work for you and produce helpful results without harming you.

Ticks love to hide in long grass, mulch beds, leaf piles, and wooded areas, so minimizing these things in your yard can help stop them from making a home there. If you live in an area with lots of wildlife, it's also helpful to put up a fence so that deer and other animals don't bring ticks into your yard.