Signs You Have a Rodent Infestation

Out of all pest infestations, rodents might be one of the most feared! Although not as destructive as termites or frightening as spiders, a rat or mouse sighting in your property can be extremely distressing. Not only are rats and mice gross—they also carry bacteria and can spread disease through their droppings.

To catch a rodent problem in its early days, it’s important to know how to tell if you have rats or mice in your property. 

7 Signs of Rodent Infestations

Rodents are not subtle creatures, meaning it can be easier to tell when you have an infestation on your hands. The seven most common signs of rats/mice in your home include:

1. Strange odors. A stale smell that you can’t explain or foul odor from droppings and urine are big indicators of a rat or mouse infestation.
2. Droppings. Rodent droppings are odorous and can cause a safety hazard. This is the most obvious sign of a rodent problem!
3. Gnaw marks. If you notice food packages with little holes or gnaw marks, it could be indicative that rats or mice have been eating your food.
4. Nests or nesting materials. Chewed up, shredded paper found in your attic, in boxes or drawers can be a sign of rats or mice making nests in your home.
5. Strange noises. If you notice chewing, scratching, or gnawing sounds in the attic or in your walls, it’s probably due to mice or rats.
6. Burrows or tunnels. Check under boards, in the doghouse, weedy spots, and near garbage cans for signs of burrows, which means rats and mice may be tunneling into your home.
7. Runways or tracks. Rats and mice might leave tracks along the floor, so spread out some talcum powder along countertops and baseboards to see if you notice paw prints.

What to Do When You Find Signs of Rats or Mice

Upon the first sighting of a rodent or a sign of a rodent, it’s time to call a professional rodent exterminator. Left alone, a rat or mouse problem can get worse quickly. Mice reproduce at a rapid rate, which is why it’s important to stop them from spreading as soon as possible. Rats breed throughout the year, and one female can produce up to five litters per year, numbering fourteen or more! When you see any of the above signs of rodents, call an exterminator right away.

Help with Rodent Infestations

If you think you have rats or mice in your home, it’s best to call a professional rodent exterminator. The team at Pest Defense Solutions can thoroughly inspect your property to locate any rodent activity, control the population, and prevent them from ever returning!