WHAT ARE RODENTS?
Rodents are mammals with sharp incisors used to gnaw wood, break into food, and bite predators. They eat seeds or plants, though some types have more varied diets.
Rodents are nocturnal creatures, spreading diseases (such as salmonella and tuberculosis) by contaminating food intended for human consumption, and causing damage to buildings and property by gnawing and burrowing into structures.
The term “rodent” encompasses both mice and rats. Mice are commonly found in interior environments and can live for up to 18 months. They range in length from 5 to 8 inches and can weigh up to 1 ounce. Female mice can produce 36 to 192 offspring per year.
Rats, specifically the Norway Rat, are commonly found in urban and suburban areas of North America. They range in length from 13 to 18 inches and can weigh up to 11 ounces. Females can produce 35 to 85 offspring annually.
HOUSE MICE
2 1/2″ to 3 3/4″ long
Dusty gray to brown
Long naked tail, small rounded ears, pointed snout
NORWAY RATS
8″ long (nose to base of tail)
Gray or brown/black mix
Long scaly tail, large ears
What do I look for?
The presence of fecal matter (“droppings”)
The presence of live or dead rodents
Visible signs of destruction to buildings and other property (such as food items)
If you suspect the presence of rodents, taking action quickly can stop the problem from getting worse. If possible, try to identify how these pests are entering your space and where they may be nesting. Rodents can often be found in or near the kitchen, which provides them with food sources and entry points around utility lines or behind appliances.
Bee-Z Pest Control Rodent Solutions
The best way to eliminate a rodent infestation is to stop them from entering your space. Even if you have determined that you have an existing rodent problem, exclusion will still provide the best long-term solution. Bee-Z’s Rodent Proofing Program Teams will inspect, treat and seal openings around utility lines and service conduits — such as water pipes, electric wires, air conditioning units, drain pipes — and will check for broken windows and unscreened vents.