Rodent Identification & Prevention (Rodentia)

What are rodents?

Look out your window, and you will likely see squirrels. Because they are so common, it is easy to forget that squirrels are rodents and share similar qualities as mice and rats, including their destructive behavior and ability to spread disease.

While you are used to seeing squirrels, you usually don't see mice and rats. However, many different rodent species in Salem County, including Norway rats and field mice, are eager to get into residential properties that provide food sources and shelter from predators.

Are rodents dangerous?

Among the many home-infesting pests, rodents are one of the worst because they are responsible for:

• Spreading diseases including hantavirus, rabies, rat-bite fever, salmonella, and more.
• Spreading parasites such as fleas and ticks.
• Contaminating food and surfaces with waste and germs.
• Causing cosmetic and structural damage by chewing and making nests.

Why do I have a rodent problem?

Mice and rats are primarily attracted to homes for the food sources they provide. These food sources can include crumbs, garbage, produce from gardens, pet food, food in flimsy food packaging, and much more. These rodents can squeeze through tiny holes, so they can easily find a way inside.

Squirrels are slightly different from mice and rats because they seek a warm place to hide when they infest homes.

Where will I find rodents?

Rodents can take over a home when they infest. Mice and rats are both nocturnal, so they will hide during the day and wait until it is safe to come out and scavenge for food. They can hide under appliances, cabinets, sinks, and inside walls and ceilings.

Because these rodents try to avoid people, you likely won't see them, but you will see signs of them, including chew marks on food packaging, droppings, urine, grease marks, and footprints.

When squirrels infest homes, they tend to stay in the attic but can also create nests inside walls.

How do I get rid of rodents?

Rodents are challenging pests to get rid of, and store-bought traps and baits won't get the job done. What will take care of a rodent problem is professional home pest control.

At Preferred Termite and Pest Control, we offer rodent control services to rid your home of these unwanted and dangerous pests. So please don't waste your time handling rodents on your own; contact us instead!

How can I prevent rodents in the future?

Along with professional pest control services in Salem County, you should continue implementing preventative measures around your property to ensure no future rodent infestations, such as:

• Repair cracks and holes that rodents can squeeze through. It helps to fill these entry points with steel wool before sealing them as rodents can't chew through this material.
• Address moisture issues and leaks, making a property more susceptible to rodents and other pests.
• Keep eating areas clear of crumbs and food debris, store dry goods in airtight containers, and use garbage cans with fitted lids.

You can learn more about how to keep rodents out of your home by giving us a call at Preferred Termite and Pest Control.