MICE, RAT & RODENT FACTS & INFORMATION

If you shiver at the thought of receiving some unwelcome visit from mice and rats, you are not alone. These small rodents can cause chaos by the sheer sight of them, be at a townhouse or a busy restaurant.

WHAT ARE RODENTS?

  • Rodents are a diverse group of mammals known for their characteristic front incisors, which continue to grow throughout their lives. Most rodents have fur that can range in color from brown and gray to black or white. Many rodents have long tails, which can be furry or scaly and are often prehensile, used for balance or grip. Rodents typically have well-developed senses of hearing and sight. Their ears can range in size and shape depending on the species. They usually have four limbs with clawed digits. These limbs are adapted for different forms of locomotion, such as running, climbing, or digging.

  • Many rodents primarily consume plant materials such as seeds, nuts, leaves, fruits, and stems. They are often considered pests in agriculture because they can damage crops. Some rodents, however, can have a more varied diet and may eat a mix of plants, insects, and even small vertebrates like birds or other rodents. Smaller species like mice also include insects and other invertebrates in their diet.

  • Most rodents reproduce prolifically. They have a high reproductive rate, with short gestation periods. Females give birth to litters of multiple pups, which are often born blind and hairless. After birth, young rodents are cared for by their mothers. They quickly grow, and their incisors start developing, and since they are weaned off their mother's milk they start eating solid food relatively early. Many rodents become independent at a young age and begin foraging for their own food. They continue to grow throughout their lives, and their teeth constantly grow, which necessitates gnawing on various objects to keep their teeth from overgrowing. The lifespan of rodents can vary considerably. Smaller species may only live for a year or two in the wild, while some larger species like beavers can live for a decade or more.

HABITS OF RODENTS

  • Rodents often nest in wall voids, crawlspaces, and attic spaces, where they can find shelter and build nests in insulation or other materials. Areas that provide dark, secluded spaces are also good spots for rodents to establish nests and access food sources.

    Rodents may burrow in lawns or garden areas, creating nests underground. They can also find food sources in gardens and compost piles.

    Also, large, open spaces in warehouses provide ample shelter and food sources for rodents. Stacked goods and cluttered areas can offer great hiding spots.

  • Mice, specifically house mice, exhibit several social behaviors and activities. They establish social hierarchies within their groups, with a dominant male leading lower-ranking males and a group of females within a defined territory. These mice tend to be social with related individuals but can be hostile and aggressive toward unfamiliar mice. They also engage in territorial behavior, with the size of their territory depending on the availability of food and water.

    In addition to their social dynamics, house mice are known for their physical abilities. They are excellent climbers and can jump up to a foot in height. However, they have limited vision, as they are colorblind and can only see objects clearly within a six-inch range.

    One of their primary activities is related to feeding. House mice are nibblers, consuming small amounts of food at a time. They typically feed during the periods of dusk and dawn but may also eat smaller meals in between. Overall, house mice engage in a range of social and physical behaviors while primarily focused on securing food and maintaining their territories.

  • Their gnawing behavior can lead to significant damage to structures, furniture, electrical wiring, and insulation. Rodents also build nests in secluded areas, using materials like paper, insulation, and fabric. These nests can cause damage and create fire hazards.

    Rodents are known carriers of various diseases, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and more. They can transmit these diseases to humans and contaminate food through contact with their urine, feces, or bites. Airborne transmission of diseases can also occur through the inhalation of particles from rodent droppings. On top of that, rodent allergens, such as proteins found in their saliva, urine, and feces, can trigger allergies and exacerbate respiratory conditions in sensitive individuals.

    Rodents also reproduce quickly, with a single pair of mice potentially producing dozens of offspring in a year. If not controlled promptly, a small infestation can turn into a major problem. As rodents can move between buildings, leading to the spread of infestations in residential areas and even between businesses.

HOW TO PREVENT A RODENT INFESTATION

Preventing rodent infestations in your home or business is essential. Inspect your property for any gaps, cracks, or holes in the exterior walls, foundation, and roof. Seal these entry points with caulk, steel wool, or hardware cloth to prevent rodents from getting inside. It’s also important to keep your home or business clean and free of food debris. Regularly clean up crumbs, spills, and food residues, especially in kitchens and dining areas by storing food in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or plastic to prevent rodents from accessing food sources.

Use tightly sealed trash cans with secure lids. Keep outdoor trash bins away from the building's exterior. Trim overgrown vegetation and bushes near the building to reduce hiding spots for rodents and repair any leaks or standing water sources, as rodents need water to survive.

You can also conduct routine inspections of your property for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, chewed materials, or gnaw marks, and should address any maintenance issues promptly, such as broken screens or damaged vents, to prevent potential entry points for rodents.

HOW TO DETECT RODENTS

Even when you are aware of the threat and harm rodents can cause, it is important that you can also identify the signs of a possible infestation in your home or business. Here are a few signs and ways you can detect the presence of rodents.

Gnaw Marks: Look for gnaw marks on various objects, such as wood, plastic, or electrical wiring. These marks can be either rough or smooth.

Droppings: Check for the presence of rodent droppings, which can be found in areas frequented by rodents. House mouse droppings are typically 1/8 to 1/4 inch long, rod-shaped, and may vary in moisture content.

Tracks: Examine surfaces for tracks left behind by rodents. House mice leave distinctive footprints with their front feet displaying four toes and their hind feet having five toes.

Rub Marks: Inspect walls and other surfaces along common rodent pathways for oily rub marks, which rodents leave as they travel.

Burrows: Look for signs of burrows, particularly in outdoor areas or building foundations. Rodents often use nesting materials like insulation.

Odor: Pay attention to any distinct odors, particularly the strong smell of mouse urine, which can become more noticeable in the presence of a significant number of rodents.

Damaged Goods: Check stored food items for signs of rodent damage, especially grains, seeds, or packages that appear to have been chewed or contaminated.

Actual Rodent Sightings: If you observe a rodent, such as a mouse, scurrying across your property or within your premises, it is a clear indication of a rodent presence. Keep in mind that one visible rodent may indicate a larger infestation hidden from view.

HOW TO ELIMINATE A RODENT INFESTATION

It is important to determine the species of rodent you are dealing with, such as mice or rats. This knowledge can help you tailor your elimination strategies in a better way.

One of the first steps is to maintain a clean environment by regularly cleaning up crumbs, spills, and food residues. Emptying and cleaning trash cans regularly, and keeping them tightly sealed will definitely help to lower the chances of rodents being interested in your property. Don’t forget to inspect the walls for gaps, cracks, and holes through which rodents could enter. Seal these entry points with materials like caulk, steel wool, or hardware cloth.

There is also the possibility of setting up rodent traps in areas where you've noticed activity. Snap traps and glue traps are common options, as well as bait stations. The stations use rodenticide baits for a more targeted approach. The traps and stations should be placed in areas frequented by rodents but out of reach of children and pets since it can definitely cause them harm. Check traps and bait stations regularly and dispose of captured rodents safely, wearing gloves and taking precautions when handling rodent carcasses. Be aware of and follow local regulations regarding the use of rodenticides and traps since substances may require professional application.

Finally, consider hiring a licensed pest control professional, especially if you have a severe infestation or if your efforts are not yielding much results. Pest control professionals have access to effective rodent control methods and can safely apply rodenticides that you may not be able to.

ELIMINATE MICE, RATS & RODENTS AND PROTECT YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS BY ENSURING THEY DON’T COME BACK

At Axon Extermination, we’ll make sure to understand and assess your needs. Book your free, zero-obligation consultation today for a customized estimate for your specific needs.