No one wants to see a rat or mouse in their house, but worse yet is having a rodent infestation that you don’t see until it is too late to solve easily. Rats and mice are typically most active at night and know how to hide well, so it is very possible that a rodent problem could develop without you even noticing. Luckily, for the informed homeowner there are many signs that point to rodent activity. Let’s take a look at some of the signs you should be looking for in order to catch rodents early.
The most common Sunshine Coast rodents are Norway rats, roof rats, and the house mouse. Although the signs of activity may look slightly different in appearance, they generally fit the same categories. Take note of what you see in your home so that you can help your pest control specialist identify and eliminate the source of the problem more quickly.
Excrement (Droppings)
Rodent droppings will vary in size based on what species you are dealing with. The large Norway rat leaves droppings that can be up to ¾ of an inch long, while the common house mouse droppings are less than ¼” long. Not only do droppings signal that rodents have been in the area, but they can help identify the approximate size of the population and if they are still active. Fresh droppings tend to be shiny, dark and moist, while older droppings are dull and hard.
Rodent Noises
Most frustrated residents report hearing sounds of rodent activity during the evening, night, and early morning hours when the rest of the house is quiet. The noises can be very disconcerting and hard to pinpoint because they are often coming from the ceiling and walls. Rodent sounds can be scratching noises, scurrying sounds, or even squeaking. If you are hearing a lot of rodent activity during the day, it could mean that you have a significant rodent problem because they are forced to be more active if food is getting scarce.
Nests and Burrows
Rodent nests or burrows tend to be well hidden. House mice typically gather scrap materials to create a comfortable area to have their babies. These materials could include: paper, fabric cardboard, sticks, and hair. They like to be in dark, warm areas, so attics, garages, storage sheds, and car engines are all likely spots. Rats will dig burrows or create nests, whatever is easiest in their particular circumstance. Norway rats usually live in the ground or close to ground level (basements, shrubs, woodpiles, etc). Roof rats can be found in trees, roof voids, and attics. If outdoors, the burrow entrance will typically be 1-4 inches big. If the burrow is active, it will be clear of debris, but if it is old, there may be plants or other things covering the opening.
High Traffic Markings
Rodents are creatures of habit and will travel the same route over and over to get food and water. This can help you identify where they live and help in trapping them. Rub marks on walls look dirty and greasy from the constant rubbing of the fur as they move. Anywhere you see these marks is a great place to place traps. Outside, you may see rodent runs where the grass has been trampled down with the constant movement to and from their food source.
Gnaw Marks
The teeth of rodents continue to grow all of their lives. Rodents will chew and gnaw on a wide variety of things in order to keep their teeth a serviceable length. Chew marks can be found on wood, containers, soft metal items, and even on cords and cables. Mice and rats can do a lot of damage to homes if they are allowed to gnaw on electrical wires. Not only does this force you to have to spend money to fix the damage, but it can also be a fire hazard.
Rodent Sightings
Once you see a mouse or rat in your house, most people get serious about solving the problem. By thoroughly searching for some of these other signs, you can help determine if it is a lone intruder or if you have a larger infestation. If you discover more rodent signs around your home and are unsure of how to proceed, trained professionals can perform an inspection, determine the type of rodent you are dealing with, develop a plan to eliminate the rodents, and help you seal up your home to prevent future problems.
The expert technicians at Radar Pest Control know how to identify and get rid of rodents. Our treatments are non-invasive and safe to use around your family and pets. We want to help keep your family safe and pest free. You can count on Radar for all your Sunshine Coast Rodent Control needs.