The summer heat in Illinois could lead to a wave of rodent infestations, according to one pest control specialist.

“The summer heatwaves we’ve experienced have created the perfect storm for a surge in rodent activity,” Zachary Smith, of Smith’s Pest Management, said in a news release. “When the environment becomes too hostile for rodents in the wild, they turn to our homes for food and shelter. Unfortunately, that means an invasion is likely.”

Common signs of an infestation include droppings, gnaw marks, scurrying sounds, footprints in dust, and nests of shredded paper and fabric in attics, basements or behind appliances, according to Smith.