There are a few ways to identify whether you have a rat or a mouse infestation.
Here are some common differences between the two:
1. Size: Rats are generally larger than mice. Adult rats can grow up to 12 inches in length, while adult mice are usually around 3-4 inches long.
2. Tail: Rats have long, hairless tails that are thicker at the base and taper to a point, while mice have longer tails that are covered in fur and are thinner than rat tails.
3. Droppings: Rat droppings are larger than mouse droppings and have blunt ends, while mouse droppings are smaller and have pointed ends.
4. Footprints: Rat footprints are larger than mouse footprints and can be identified by their five-toed front feet and four-toed back feet, while mouse footprints have four toes on both the front and back feet.
By examining these differences, you can determine whether you have a rat or a mouse infestation. However, it’s always best to contact a pest control professional to properly identify the pest and develop an effective treatment plan.
How to Control Infestation of Mice or Rats inside a premises?
MICE
Mice are a common household pest that can cause damage to your property and spread diseases.
Preventing mice from entering your home is the best way to avoid an infestation.
Here are some tips to keep mice out of your house:
1. Seal all entry points: Mice can enter through even the smallest cracks and holes in your walls, floors, and foundation. Seal any gaps or holes with caulk or steel wool to prevent mice from entering.
2. Keep your home clean: Mice are attracted to food and clutter, so keeping your home clean and tidy can help prevent them from entering. Store food in airtight containers, clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and keep garbage in sealed containers.
3. Trim trees and bushes: Mice can use tree branches and bushes to climb onto your roof and enter your home through the attic or chimney. Trim back any branches or bushes that are close to your home.
4. Use mouse repellents: There are several natural mouse repellents that you can use to keep mice away from your home. Peppermint oil, mothballs, and ultrasonic devices are all effective at repelling mice.
By following these tips, you can prevent mice from entering your home and avoid an infestation. If you already have a mouse problem, it’s best to contact a pest control professional for safe and effective removal.
RATS
Rats are a common household pest that can cause damage to your property and spread diseases.
Preventing rats from entering your home is the best way to avoid an infestation.
Here are some tips to keep rats out of your house:
1. Seal all entry points: Rats can enter through even the smallest cracks and holes in your walls, floors, and foundation. Seal any gaps or holes with caulk or steel wool to prevent rats from entering.
2. Keep your home clean: Rats are attracted to food and clutter, so keeping your home clean and tidy can help prevent them from entering. Store food in airtight containers, clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and keep garbage in sealed containers.
3. Trim trees and bushes: Rats can use tree branches and bushes to climb onto your roof and enter your home through the attic or chimney. Trim back any branches or bushes that are close to your home.
4. Use rat repellents: There are several natural rat repellents that you can use to keep rats away from your home. Peppermint oil, ammonia, and ultrasonic devices are all effective at repelling rats.
5. Set traps: If you suspect that you have a rat problem, setting traps is an effective way to catch them. Place traps along walls or in areas where rats are likely to travel.
By following these tips, you can prevent rats from entering your home and avoid an infestation. If you already have a rat problem, it’s best to contact a pest control professional for safe and effective removal.
For expert advise and help, please contact Pest Control Works any time any day of the year. 🙂