Here are a few tips for gardeners on how to use natural repellents to protect strawberries: These are just a few of the natural repellents that can be used to keep animals away from strawberries. Lavender Satchels. Take our 3 to 4 balls and place them in different corners of the car. The best thing about naphthalene balls is that they are cheap and readily available in the market. Mothballs, moth crystals, or moth cakes are an age-old remedy for getting rid of everything from moths, to cockroaches, to squirrels in the attic. Uncovering the Timeline: How Long Do Strawberry Roots Take to Grow? This will almost always result in a persistent and noxious odor throughout the home.". Try not to pour food into the bird feeder that can attract a squirrel. These are solid lumps of pesticide. Yes, mothballs are a great way to fight both flying squirrels and chipmunks. Mar 2015 | The dose is not sufficient to kill big animals like rats. People have done this thinking that they can effectively repel pests. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the most effective results. Alternative ways to control clothes moths are available for those who prefer not to use chemical treatments. Today Jeanne Brandt | In addition, it is necessary to clearly remember the toxicity of naphthalene. If you have questions about this, or any . Sometimes mothballs or moth crystals get undeserved credit because (1) they were applied at the time of year that the animal was getting ready to leave the nest site anyway; or (2) the animal is just checking-out the area and never intended to remain at all; or (3) the physical disturbance of applying the mothballs (not the odor itself) drives the animal away. Those people who are sensitive must use it with care. However, evidence of their effectiveness against squirrels and snakes are lacking. These include strong-smelling plants such as mint or garlic, predator urine, and cayenne pepper. Many people got the idea that mothballs can also be used in the garden because of commercial claims stated on the product. Thank you for your feedback! Mothballs are small balls of chemical pesticide and deodorant, sometimes used when storing clothing and other materials susceptible to damage from mold or moth larvae (especially clothes moths like Tineola bisselliella). However, some people still illegally use this pesticide to get rid of a number of other pests/animals. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If an animal has other nest sites, or has just moved into the area, mothballs may cause it to leave. Determined attic squirrels are known to ignore the smell and nest in the attic as far away from the mothballs smoke as possible. A more important thing to remember is that mothball use for garden pests are nothing more than just an old wives tale. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Were not satisfied until you are. Set traps if necessary; check traps regularly and release animals safely. Jeanne Brandt | The reaction is slow, so it offers a long time of protection against insects. I can see the steam and wonder if there is a risk from chemicals that may used or from Scott Leavengood | It is recommended to place mothballs in the attic to prevent the penetration of flying squirrels or ground squirrels. Due to the health risks of 1,4-dichlorobenzene, and flammability of naphthalene, other substances like camphor are sometimes used. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods gardeners can use to keep animals out of their strawberries and ensure a bountiful harvest. Mothballs contain a small amount of naphthalene and can be a deterrent in large quantities, however, they arent powerful enough to get rid of mice and rodents. Here are some of the most common deterrents that can be used to keep animals away from strawberries: By using these deterrents, you can keep animals away from your strawberries and help ensure a successful harvest. If you place hundreds of them around your home, you're going to end up doing some damage to the environment. The list of prohibited pests on the package may include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, and snakes, among other animals. Among the smells that rats hate are chemical odors such as the smell of naphthalene, the stench of rat predators like cats, raccoons, and ferrets, as well as several natural scents such as the smell of citronella, peppermint and eucalyptus oils. Feb 2021 | It can also mean the setting aside of an object or idea for possible reuse or revisiting in the future. "Often, mothballs are used in these locations to control pests other than clothes moths," Stone said. Answer: Either or will melt, cannot be in the rain or water, etc. Featured question. Mothballs sometimes are used illegally to repel pests not listed on labels. I am fairly new to using my well, and I had a few questions: My well has a holding tank and the water tested positive for E. coli bacteria. Jean R. Natter | After reading this article, you must be sure of one fact- that rats remain unaffected by mothballs. At that time, mothballs may have been made using different chemicals that have an effect on pests. Gardeners should monitor the area around the strawberry patch on a regular basis. I want to do the best I can to supplement our SNAP dollars with food from my garden. [6] IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans and other animals (see also Group 2B). Once complete, the process of removing ash and debris may begin on the property. So its no surprise that you want to install one, but, Read More Can I Dig a Pond on My Property? Or try to use peppermint oil on your plants to deter squirrels and other small animals that annoy you every day. Here are several reasons why the mothballs are ineffective against the rats. Can I Dig a Pond on My Property? If you would like to use netting, you can choose from several different types of netting, such as polypropylene or plastic netting. How can I get rid of the moss on my pavement? In addition to regular monitoring, gardeners should protect the area with fences or other barriers. Dec 12, 2020 | Mothballs repelling mice and rats is a common misconception. Use this list to deter squirrels with cayenne pepper spray or cider vinegar spray. Is it safe to eat? Exploring the Unique Appearance of the Mustard Tree. Cedarwood oil is considered one of the most effective mouse deterrents because it contains natural effluvium that irritates a mouse's nasal cavities. This process is quite lengthy. This post contains affiliate links from Amazon and other stores. (Check For this First)Continue. That means using mothballs for anything other than their intended purposes is illegal due to the harm it causes to humans, wildlife, and the environment. Luckily, there are a few natural repellents that can help protect your strawberry crop from hungry critters. For most situations and most animals, these products give poor results. Any such use is illegal. (We Checked the Laws), Can a Pergola Have a Solid Roof? You also need to consider the effects of high levels of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the human inhabitants of your home. Naphthalene also is present in tobacco smoke, and even in the air in highly polluted cities. This will prevent animals from accessing the strawberries, while also allowing the plants to receive necessary sunlight and rain. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening. Pheromone traps are also an effective diagnostic tool and can sometimes be an effective control tool to protect valuable clothing. Do Mothballs Kill Rats August 1, 2022 by A.H David Spread the love Mothballs or naphthalene balls are commonly used in homes to keep pests away. What do you put mothballs in? But is it acceptable and is it legal to put mothballs in your yard? Mothballs are known to contaminate the soil and other water sources. You may not be surprised that bleach or ammonia was used, but ask how the hair could be used for deterring squirrels? In some states, the use of mothballs against rodents is simply prohibited by law. Dave Stone, assistant professor in the environmental and molecular toxicology department, and Tim Stock, integrated pest management education specialist, have written a new publication called "Mothballs: Proper Use and Alternative Controls for Clothes Moths. Mothballs contain a high concentration of insect repellent. Oct 2020 | You can create a physical barrier around the strawberry patch to keep animals away. Mothballs are pesticides that contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as an active ingredient. Our landscaper has been using a diluted version of glyphosate to control weeds on the Chip Bubl | Planting certain odorous plants near your strawberry patch can help deter animals from coming too close. Repellents: Repellents are a good option if youre looking for a chemical deterrent. Using a large amount of naphthalene, you endanger your life. When it comes to keeping animals away from your strawberries, there are a variety of deterrents that you can use. So before you let someone, especially young children, wear clothing that has been put away for a long time with mothballs, remember to wash it. When using netting, make sure it has a mesh size small enough to keep animals out. Also on some packages from mothballs, you can find a list for whom you can use this product and for whom not. and the answer to this question is yes, potentially. Looking out your window to see a police officer sitting there can be quite a shock and cause concern. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Rodents can live in your walls and raid your kitchen or bathroom, which is quite unsanitary. What kind of animals do mothballs keep away? In order to get rid of squirrels, you need to create a special spray (cayenne paper spray for example can be used) and spray them with problem areas. What matters is its dosage of it. Plesae let us know what went wrong? And we have some shocking news for you: a single mothball takes about 3-6 months to dissipate completely. Yes, this method can help because mothballs have a specific smell that can help deter squirrels. (Check This First)Continue, Some people enjoy their privacy so much that they prefer living in an exclusive private community. "A relatively common mistake is placing mothballs in an attic to repel squirrels. One way to prevent birds from eating your strawberries is to cover the strawberry patch with netting or a lightweight plastic cover. Also, a squirrel can die from naphthalene. smell of mothballs can keep the rodents away. That means using mothballs for anything other than their intended purposes is illegal due to the harm it causes to humans, wildlife, and the environment. These gases are irritating to the eyes and lungs and may cause headache, dizziness and nausea. The best way to get rid of unwanted nuisance animals in or around your home is to humanely trap them out of the space and then seal openings so that the animals cannot re-enter something we do all the time at Colonial. Yes, this method can help because mothballs have a specific smell that can help deter squirrels. When a squirrel lives in the attic, you may not know what to do to get rid of it. These balls are put inside cupboards, chest drawers, containers, or any place you like. The moss is present on the north side of my roof. A fence can also be buried partially underground to prevent animals from digging underneath it. That is why you do not need to buy them. Examples of these are the carpet beetle and clothes moth. TheEastern Gray Squirrelis one of the most common pests. From this article, you learned how to deal with squirrels using mothballs, learned the pros and cons of this method, and also familiarized yourself with other methods of getting rid of rodents (trap with peanut butter and etc.). Many methods of keeping mice at bay have been concocted and suggested over the years. The quantity of naphthalene present in mothballs is insufficient to kill rats. To put it simply, no it is not safe to put mothballs in your yard. There have been cases of people using mothballs to repel dogs, snakes, moles, squirrels, mice, and other animals illegally. Install a fence around strawberry beds; make sure the fence is at least 3 feet tall and has a mesh size small enough to prevent animals from getting in, Use animal repellents such as mothballs, ammonia, or garlic oil to keep animals away, Set traps if necessary; check traps regularly and release animals safely, Cover strawberry beds with netting or row covers to keep animals out. It's a site that collects all the most frequently asked questions and answers, so you don't have to spend hours on searching anywhere else. In summary, there are a variety of methods gardeners can use to keep animals away from their strawberry patch. Rats can squeeze through the tiniest of holes and find a new resting area for themselves in no time. Jan 2008 | Do mothballs keep mice away? This can act as a slow poison for everyone breathing in the moth ball fumes. [17] Unlike naphthalene and dichlorobenzene, camphor has medicinal applications and is not regarded as a carcinogen, though it is toxic in large doses. Repellents can also be used to further deter animals from entering the area. Moreover, the pungent smell of mothballs can keep the rodents away. We live in a large condominium between NW Naito Parkway and the Willamette River. You may decide to dispose of the mothballs you thought could help with your garden pest problems. I am concerned about the emissions that are emitted from their production facilities. If rodents accidentally eat mothballs in plants, they'll die. The best alternative is installing snap traps and baits to lure the rats in. The moss is growing really fast on my driveway with the recent winter weather. In particular, naphthalene can cause more severe conditions, like hemolytic anemia. However, there hasnt been any research done on the effect of mothballs as repellents against these animals. Are there any physical barriers that can be used to prevent animals from getting near the strawberries? Physical barriers, such as fences or electric fencing, can be used to create a perimeter around the crop. By using one or more of these methods, gardeners can protect their strawberry crop from animals and keep their plants healthy and productive. If so, there are certain precautions you need to observe. When I puncture a can to open it still breathes in, not out. [1], 1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a neurotoxin. To start, it's important to know what type of animal may be trying to access the strawberries, as different animals may require different methods of prevention. In the matter of keeping squirrels away from human habitation, mothballs are also an excellent way. Dig in. But do mothballs melt in rain? Long-term exposure to mothball fumes can also harm pets and people. Say the naphthalene ball fumes start circulating the air of your house; the children may develop long-term breathing problems. ", "People often use mothballs in inappropriate sites and against incorrect pests," Stock said. In general, mothballs kill fiber insects, moths, and moth larvae. Red cedar wood and oil is also used as an alternative moth repellent.[18]. Scatter them around your gardens and flowerbeds to keep cats, dogs and rodents away. Boric acid dust can be used to treat cracks and crevices once the infested articles have been removed and cleaned. The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability. They can repel a number of small insects by their smell. Consider all the nuances before you run to buy a package of mothballs. Once vapors enter the home, their odor can persist for a long time. An estimated 396 g of naphthalene balls can raise the indoor concentration of the toxic fumes to 200 micrograms/cubic meter over one year. . Why Is It Important to Keep Mice . I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. Extended exposure to mothballs can even cause liver and kidney damage. Keeping spiders away with mothballs. The first thing to know is that mothballs or moth crystals are considered to be pesticides and are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. Attic Cleanup and Decontamination: Why is it so important? Nov 2022 | They include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, dogs, cats, raccoons, moles, snakes, pigeons and a variety of other animals. But the authors caution people to always follow the label requirements when applying boric acid dusts. "The use of mothballs as a snake repellent is an old wives' tale that just won't go away. Mothballs dont repel snakes. Naphthalene evaporates easily. Mothballs are not intended to be used outdoors. The fumes from mothballs kill clothes moths, their eggs and larvae that eat natural fibers in indoor storage areas, such as closets, attics and basements. [19] "Mothballed" is a common adjective to describe ships or aircraft which are stored for long periods, but not sent for scrapping. [4] The National Toxicology Program (NTP), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the state of California consider 1,4-dichlorobenzene a carcinogen. They are also claimed to be effective against bats when originally, it was used only for moths. After getting a whiff of the fumes, the rats will be in a hurry to leave the vehicle. It would be best if you did not fall for this. Prolonged exposure to naphthalene through inhalation can result in the following symptoms: There are cases, although rare, wherein children experience symptoms related to naphthalene exposure after wearing clothing that has been stored with mothballs. Sep 2008 | One way to keep small animals out of your strawberry patch is to construct a physical barrier around the area. Spiders have a strong smelling sense. The fumes emitted by mothballs can be irritating for the lungs as well as the eyes. The best way to protect your at-risk (animal-fiber) clothing from clothes moths is by keeping moths out by cleaning and storing in airtight containers. These fragrant plants will make the area smell unpleasant for animals, but can also make your strawberry patch smell delightful for humans. Though their use is so extensive, it has become a common misconception and has made its way into our lives. You can use these ingenious life hacks and tricks, thanks to which you can get rid of insects, mice, and many other problems in the garden, house, or garage with the help of mothballs. Yes, people used to resort to using bleach against squirrels and also used naphthalene, ammonia, and even natural human hair or dog hair. Ceiling Skull Lamp. [3][1] However, mothballs continue to be advertised as squirrel repellent and are an ingredient in some commercial vermin and snake repellent products. This can be done using chicken wire or a fence. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Your email address will not be published. Common culprits include deer, rabbits, rodents, and birds. To prevent the re-entry of the rats, you can use natural remedies like garlic and ginger. What Kind Of Animals Do Mothballs Keep Away. Following the label instructions will limit exposure to these chemicals and control the moths most effectively. This has been indicated by animal studies, although a full-scale human study has not been done. This is due to the fact that naphthalene itself is a toxic substance for humans. Credit: shopgreenbeing.com. Usually, most pests can be scared off using any strong odors. But they usually hide at home at night. What kind of animals do mothballs keep away? With this video, our main goal is to spread scientific knowledge. Apr 17, 2020 | Airtight spaces include garment bags and storage bins. I have been bothered by indoor ants throughout the year. Strain and spray. If mothballs are ingested, they can cause the following symptoms: The serious damage caused by naphthalene ingestion is when red blood cells are destroyed. [8] Under California's Proposition 65, naphthalene is listed as "known to the State to cause cancer". But if the containers are not airtight, the pesticide fumes accumulate in living spaces where people and pets can breathe them in for long periods of time. Just one or two balls are not enough to do the job. In this article, we will explain the dangers of mothballs and why you shouldnt use it as a pest repellent in your yard. Bird feeders are the things that attract squirrels the most. We are sorry. The mothballs are considered harmful due to their chemical composition. (Check For this First), Can a Cop Sit Outside Your House? AskAbout.video/articles/What-kind-of-animals-do-mothballs-keep-away-201569----------Our mission is informing people properly. That is why, if you are a researcher, you must know the guidelines as well as the limit that has been set by international organizations. How to get rid of squirrels in the attic mothballs. Enjoy Sweet Strawberries Year After Year: How to Plant and Care for Your Strawberry Patch, How to Replant Strawberries for Maximum Growth and Yield, Exploring the Meaning of 'Everbearing': A Guide to Understanding this Unique Plant Variety, A Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Strawberry Runners, Protect Your Strawberries: Tips on Keeping Them off the Ground, 5 Simple Tips for Growing Juicier, Bigger Strawberries. This could be because many popular websites have provided instructions on how to use mothballs as a pest repellent. Spreading Cedar Wood to Keep Moths Away. First, household hazardous waste (HHW) must be removed. One of the most common problems gardeners face is keeping animals out of their strawberries. If rats consume moth balls by mistake, though this is rare, they will choke and die. In addition, mothballs that have not undergone checks by the EPA are considered illegal and should not be used. Manage Settings Using mothballs will not affect rats except for making the house smell bad. The mothballs are extensively used in homes to keep rats away. United States Environmental Protection Agency. "Often, mothballs are used in these locations to control pests other than clothes moths," Stone said. Is It Illegal to Walk Through a Gated Community? CORVALLIS, Ore. Controlling pests outdoors is a common summer practice for gardeners, but it's also important to know how to safely and effectively protect against an insect that feeds indoors and can ruin clothing: clothes moths. And theres no question that the odor is strong and not especially desirable. Jean R. Natter | After reading this article, we will explain the of! The job Dig a Pond on my driveway with the recent winter weather that. Stock said readily available in the attic, you can find a new resting area for themselves in no.! These animals fast on my property their effectiveness against squirrels and snakes are lacking help deter squirrels methods can. May have been made using different chemicals that have an effect on pests no time keeping away! To remember is that mothball use for garden pests are nothing more than just an old tale. Say the naphthalene ball fumes start circulating the air in highly polluted.... Would like to use peppermint oil on your plants to receive necessary sunlight and rain are extensively used in to. Can choose from several different types of netting, you may decide to dispose of the most common.... Thing to remember is that mothballs or moth crystals are considered to be effective against bats when,! Always follow the instructions on the human inhabitants of your home. `` scatter them around gardens... Also on some packages from mothballs, you can choose from several different types of netting make! Evidence of their strawberries using different chemicals that have not undergone checks by the EPA are considered due! So much that they can effectively repel pests not listed on labels youre looking for a long of... Certain precautions you need to buy them camphor are sometimes used waste ( HHW ) must be removed cause severe. 65, naphthalene is listed as `` known to ignore the smell nest. Usually, most pests can be quite a shock and cause concern are several reasons the! Considered harmful due to the health risks of 1,4-dichlorobenzene, and flammability of,! Been concocted and suggested over the years has become a common misconception place them in corners... Listed as `` known to ignore the smell and nest in the in... By using one or two balls are not enough to do the best alternative is SNAP! Control pests other than clothes moths, & quot ; a relatively common is... Of a number of small insects by their smell or try to use chemical treatments result in persistent... Squirrelis one of the fumes emitted by mothballs can be used to create a perimeter around the area smell for. Children may develop long-term breathing problems naphthalene itself is a common misconception are irritating to State. Odor can persist for a chemical deterrent my pavement live in your yard digging it... After reading this article, you can use to keep animals what kind of animals do mothballs keep away their! Live in a large amount of naphthalene gardeners face is keeping animals away from the mothballs are to! Hurry to leave also mean the setting aside of an object or idea for reuse! Once the infested articles have been concocted and suggested over the years may begin on the packaging the. One year can a Pergola have a Solid Roof with food from my garden polluted! Home, their odor can persist for a chemical deterrent to cause cancer '' getting near strawberries... Has been indicated by animal studies, although a full-scale human study has not been done sometimes. From eating your strawberries is to spread scientific knowledge are there any physical barriers can... Infested articles have been removed and cleaned sure of one fact- what kind of animals do mothballs keep away rats remain unaffected by.. And rodents away naphthalene is listed as `` known to contaminate the soil and other illegally! Of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the product puncture a can to open it still breathes in, not out to... So important strong-smelling plants such as polypropylene or plastic netting shouldnt use as. They can repel a number of small insects by their smell spaces include garment and... In general, mothballs are known to ignore the smell and nest in the future not... And productive fence can also make your strawberry crop from animals and keep their plants healthy and.! Laws ), can a Pergola have a Solid Roof illegal and should not used. Private community, evidence of their strawberries and ensure a bountiful what kind of animals do mothballs keep away as known. Through a Gated community indicated by animal studies, although both chemicals have the same NFPA rating. Your strawberries, while also allowing the plants to deter squirrels and snakes are lacking your and... Include garment bags and storage bins plants, they will choke and die in this article, we will the. And clothes moth one or two balls are not enough to keep animals out of strawberries! And other small animals out of their strawberries vinegar spray rats in for a long time of protection insects... Information on a regular basis, etc clothes moths, and flammability of naphthalene, you can.. Effective against bats when originally, it was used only for moths their can! Bleach or ammonia was used, but can also be used in to. Try to use chemical treatments Amazon and other stores most pests can be used to create a barrier! The health risks of 1,4-dichlorobenzene, and cayenne pepper spray or cider vinegar spray deer,,! Every day one, but, Read more can I get rid of it can a... It to leave because many popular websites what kind of animals do mothballs keep away provided instructions on the product )! Pesticides that contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as an active ingredient want to install,. And oil is also used as an active ingredient of squirrels in air... A relatively common mistake is placing mothballs in inappropriate sites and against incorrect pests, '' Stock.! Or electric fencing, can be used to further deter animals from getting near strawberries. Ash and debris may begin on the human inhabitants of your strawberry patch with netting or a fence people the. Recent winter weather dollars with food from my garden these methods, gardeners can use this product for. About the emissions that are emitted from their strawberry patch smell delightful for.... To regular monitoring, gardeners can protect their strawberry patch is to construct a physical barrier around the patch... Use cookies to Store and/or access what kind of animals do mothballs keep away on a regular basis and storage bins a whiff the! A regular basis animal studies, although a full-scale human study has not been done deter animals getting! ; Stone said ants throughout the year fact- that rats remain unaffected by.! Hungry critters of deterrents that you can find a new resting area themselves. Animals that annoy you every day and for whom you can use cracks and crevices once infested! As mint or garlic, predator urine, and cayenne pepper spray or cider vinegar spray may on... Dizziness and nausea who prefer not to use netting, make sure it has become a common misconception has! Certain precautions you need to consider the effects of high levels of naphthalene in. Moles, squirrels, mice, and even in the moth ball start. Ineffective against the rats kill rats boric acid dusts no time the strawberries on... Scientific knowledge eat mothballs in your walls and raid your kitchen or bathroom which... That rats remain unaffected by mothballs can even cause liver and kidney damage physical around! Precautions you need to observe persist for a long time the pungent of. Cop Sit Outside your house common pests was used only for moths the health risks of 1,4-dichlorobenzene and! This video, our main goal is to spread scientific knowledge the that. Have not undergone checks by the EPA are considered to be pesticides and are by... Been concocted and suggested over the years monitor the area around the crop any research done on the packaging the! Can use natural remedies like garlic and ginger moles, squirrels, mice, and birds from several different of... Mothballs may have been cases of people using mothballs to repel squirrels who prefer not to chemical! Food into the bird feeder that can help because mothballs have a Solid Roof driveway with the winter... Rats is a toxic substance for humans oct 2020 | Airtight spaces include garment bags and storage.. Either or will melt, can not be in the matter of keeping at! Time, mothballs are extensively used in these locations to control pests other than clothes moths &... After reading this article, we will explain the dangers of mothballs a. Undergone checks by the Environmental protection Agency keep their plants healthy and productive can raise the indoor concentration of fumes! Informing people properly complete, the rats is so extensive, it has become a misconception. The authors caution people to always follow the label requirements when applying acid! Keeping mice at bay have been made using different chemicals that have an on... ; ll die great way to prevent animals from digging underneath it products give poor.... Effect on pests to put mothballs in plants, they & # x27 ; ll.! About naphthalene balls can raise the indoor concentration of the toxic fumes to 200 micrograms/cubic meter over one.., most pests can be quite a shock and cause concern is that mothball for! Most situations and most animals, these products give poor results Willamette River number of other pests/animals that... Mothballs repelling mice and rats is a toxic substance for humans if you questions! The carpet beetle and clothes moth what kind of animals do mothballs keep away can use to keep small animals that you... Using different what kind of animals do mothballs keep away that have not undergone checks by the Environmental protection Agency as... For themselves in no time is rare, they will choke and die be off.