Rodent Identification & Prevention

What are rodents?

Forty percent of all mammal species are rodents; this means that there are large numbers of these critters living all over the world (except for Antarctica). Rodents come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and when living outside and away from people, cause us no problems. However, many species of rodents, including mice and rats, have, over time, come to live near people. They have learned that our yards, homes, and businesses provide them with easy access to their basic needs of food, water, and shelter.

Mice are small rodents, while rats are bigger and considered medium-sized rodents. Like all rodents, mice and rats have front incisors that grow throughout their entire life. Three of the most prominent invaders of residential and commercial properties in our area are the house mouse, Norway rat, and roof rat.

Are rodents dangerous?

One of the biggest reasons why rodents are dangerous to have on our properties is their sharp, ever-growing front teeth. Their constant need to gnaw to prevent their teeth from overgrowing causes rodents to damage our personal property and the structural elements inside our homes and businesses.

Other reasons why rodents are dangerous and unwanted pests is because they contaminate food and surfaces with their saliva, urine, and excrement and can transmit disease-causing pathogens and parasites that make people ill. Also, these creatures will chew on and damage our clothing, furniture, rugs, papers, boxes, and other belongings we have stored indoors.

Why do I have a rodent problem?

Rodents are omnivores, and therefore have a varied diet and feed on whatever they can get their tiny paws on. These creative creatures can make themselves at home on almost any property, whether located in the country, suburbs, or the city. Rodents are, however, very problematic in cities where the many buildings, sewers systems, and large populations of people provide them with everything they need to survive.

Where will I find rodents?

Rodents spend most of their lives living outside, but often close to our homes and businesses. These animals are just as common in the alleyways of cities as they are in fields that surround warehouses, or parks that surround suburban dwellings.

Norway rats are burrowers and like to build their nests in woodpiles, dumpsters, landfills, gardens, and under building foundations. Inside, they prefer to nest on the ground floor or basement. Roof rats are excellent climbers. They live up off the ground in shrubs, trees, or on the roof. Inside, these rodents prefer to nest inside attics.

As their name suggests, house mice have adapted well to living indoors. They make their cylindrical nests from things they gather throughout our homes and place them in wall voids, behind large appliances, in chimneys, attics, and basements. They also nest outside in tree hollows, tree stumps, in dense landscaping, and tall grass.

How do I get rid of rodents?

The first step you should take to get rid of rodents from your property is to contact a professional. At Admiral Pest Control, our professionals know the steps needed to eliminate rodents and prevent a re-infestation.

We are our area’s oldest family-run pest control company and take care of all our customers as if they are part of our family. If you are looking to rid your southern Los Angeles County or Orange County residential or commercial property of pests, reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Admiral Pest Control. Call us today to learn more about our rodent control services!

How can I prevent rodents in the future?

Rodents and other pests are difficult to prevent, so the best prevention tip is always to partner with a trained and experienced professional. Also, utilizing the following tips from Admiral Pest Control can help you avoid problems with rodents:

• Get rid of areas where rodents can hide on your property. Keep the grass cut short and cut back overgrown shrubbery away from the outside walls of your home.
• Stop rodents from using your yard as a place to forage for food by regularly harvesting fruits and vegetables from garden areas, removing bird feeders, and keeping locking lids on trash, recycling, and compost bins.
• Place metal flashing on the bottom of fruit trees to prevent roof rats from climbing them.
• Don’t let them get their water from your yard. Fix leaky outdoor faucets and hoses. Keep gutters clear of debris to stop rainwater from pooling in them.
• Keep rodents from being able to wiggle their way into your home by inspecting exterior walls and the foundation. Use caulk or another sealant to repair any openings you find.
• Vents and chimney openings should always have mesh covers over them. Fill in spaces around wires and pipes going into your home with a chew-proof material like steel wool.