Your home might be rife with rodents, but these animals are likely hidden from view. Rodents emerge at night when homeowners sleep. Take note of the signs of rodents as detailed below. If you notice any of these signs, contact the pest control experts right away.
Urine Trails
Trails or puddles of urine are surefire tells your home has rodents. Rodents will drop urine and feces throughout your home without second thought. Furthermore, rodents are notorious for having weak bladders. These animals will pee just about anywhere. Look closely for mounds of urine and dirt. It will help to use a black or fluorescent light to spot rodent urine. If you see droppings, it is a clear sign rodents have made your home into their own.
Rodent Nests
Rodents gather fuzzy materials for nests. Everything from leaves to twigs, grass, stuffing from furniture, and fabric suffice for rodent nests. Such materials are typically positioned far away from areas where you are likely to walk. Look in those nooks and crannies that are likely to be warm and cozy for rodents. You just might find a small nest or two in these spaces.
Areas of Gnawing
Rats and mice have strong teeth that continue to grow as they age. These animals are willing to chew on just about anything. However, they are most likely to gnaw away at doors, doorframes, baseboards, cabinets, and other wood items.
Sounds
If you hear sounds coming from the walls or cabinets, take a close look at the back panels to determine if rodents have breached them. All rodent access points must be sealed in a timely manner. Keep in mind that it only takes one pregnant rodent to lead to a rapid infestation that ruins your home’s cleanliness and quality of living.
Droppings
Rodent droppings are typically found behind cupboards, drawers, pantries, and cabinets. You might also find rodent droppings behind bins and other areas where food is stored. If the droppings are gray in hue, it is a sign they are old. Newer droppings are typically shinier and softer. If the droppings are a half-inch in length and diameter, they are from rats. Alternatively, if the droppings are around 1/8 inch in length, they are likely from mice.
Runways and Tracks
Rats adhere to odor trails and rely on the same runways over and over to reach water and food. These animals also take the same routes to and from their nests. Do your best to pinpoint rodent runways. Take a close look for tracks. Rodent footprints and tail marks are that much easier to see in dusty areas.
Grease Smearing
Mice and rats have natural grease in their fur. This grease leaves ugly marks on siding or wood. The buildup of grease has the potential to spread. Take a look at your home’s siding and walls for areas of discoloration. If there are discolored areas on the interior or exterior of the home, it is a sign rodents might have moved in.
Rodents Upset Dogs
Dogs tend to be alarmed when they hear or smell rats, mice and other rodents. If your dog pays extra close attention to the fence line along your yard in the evening when mice tend to emerge, it is a sign there are rodents. However, this is not to say you should strictly rely on your dog to identify and eliminate the rats, mice, or other rodents from your property. While cats can typically kill rodents without running any health risk, some dogs might not be able to withstand the diseases carried by rodents.
The Rodent Experts are a Call Away
If you notice any of the signs listed above, contact us right away. We will analyze your rodent infestation, figure out the best approach to eliminating these pests and get to work. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.