The Ultimate Guide to Rodents

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exterminator inspecting home

Do you have a rodent problem? If so, you're not alone. Rodents are some of the most common pests in the world. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about rodents. We'll cover topics such as identification, habits, and prevention tips. We'll also provide information on how to get rid of rodents if they become a nuisance. So whether you're dealing with rats, mice, or any other type of rodent, this guide has you covered!

Identifying Different Rodents

One of the first steps in dealing with a rodent problem is to identify the type of rodent you're dealing with. This can be tricky, as there are many different types of species to worry about. Some of the common species include mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, and squirrels. To help you identify the type of rodent you have, here are some tips:

  • Look for droppings: One way to tell what kind of rodent you have is to look for droppings. Mouse droppings are small and smooth, while rat droppings are larger and more jagged. Gerbil and hamster droppings are similar in size to mouse droppings, but they tend to be more pellet-like in shape.
  • Inspect the damage:  Another way to tell what kind of rodent you have is to inspect the damage they've done. Mice and rats will gnaw on just about anything, including wood, insulation, and electrical wires. Gerbils and hamsters, on the other hand, are more likely to chew on soft materials like paper or fabric. 
  • Listen to Noises:  One of the easiest ways to tell what kind of rodent you have is to simply listen for the noise it makes. Mice are relatively quiet, while rats can be quite loud. Gerbils and hamsters are also relatively quiet, but they may make a slight squeaking noise.

Rodent Habits

As anyone who has ever dealt with a rodent infestation knows, these creatures can be incredibly destructive. But what exactly do rodents do when they invade your home? For starters, rodents have big appetites, so any food left out has a very good chance of being found by these pests. Foods that rodents enjoy can include: 

  • Seeds
  • Fruit
  • Trash
  • Other rodents
  • Animal products

These creatures are mostly nocturnal, so you will likely avoid them unless you are a night owl yourself. Rodents will nest close to their food source, so it's important to find their habitat to then exterminate them as fast as possible. 

How To Prevent A Rodent Infestation

Whether you are dealing with mice, rats, or even squirrels, you can find a solution to get rid of these pests. There are a few things you can do to prevent rodents from entering your home, and they include: 

Seal Up Entry Points

Rodents will look to get into your home through any cracks or crevices around your house, as well as drainage pipes and ceilings. Their body shape allows them to be very flexible and even if you have a tiny hole that doesn't seem plausible for rodents to fit through, chances are they can find a way as these pests are very determined. 

Keep a Clean Yard

Any debris, tall grass, and weeds could be perfect hiding spots for mice and rats. Once the temperature starts to drop, these creatures will look for ways to get inside. If they do not have areas to hide out in the meantime, your chances of rodents getting inside will decrease a good amount. 

Remove Food Sources

Make sure to store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage regularly as rodents are natural scavengers. One of the easiest food sources for mice and rats is pet food. If you are noticing a mess around your dog's bowl the next morning, try to implement a solution where you don't have to leave pet food out overnight. 

Seek Professional Rodent Control

If you have tried method after method and still notice rodent activity around your home, your best bet may be to call in the professionals for expert services. Our exterminators at Connor's Pest Pros have the proper experience to get rid of any rodent, including squirrels. What makes us stand out is our same-day services and 100% satisfaction guarantee, so put your trust in a company that wants to get rid of rodents for good!

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