Rats and mice are common pests that invade home, warehoused, and commercial spaces in search of food and shelter. They contaminate food with urine, droppings, and hair-spoiling up to 10 times more food than they consume. They also pose serious health and safety risks, spreading disease and even causing fires by gnawing electrical wires.
Key rodent pests
Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Also known as the brown or sewer rat
Large, burrowing rodent (13-18 inches including tail)
Prefers fresh meat, fish and grain but survives on garbage
Burrows under buildings, damaging foundations and landscapes
Lifespan:~1 year | 8-12 pups per litter | Up to 7 litters/year
Dampwood Termites
Also called the black or ship rat
Smaller, more agile, with a tail longer than its body
Nests in attics, trees, and roofs
Prefers fruits, vegetables, and grains
Lifespan:~1 year | 6-8 pups per litter | Up to 6 litters/year
Dampwood Termites
Small, slender rodent with a pointed nose and large ears
Lives in homes, farms, and open fields
Feeds on grains and various households foods
Lifespan:~ 1 year | 5-6 pups per litter | Up to 8 litters/years
signs of rodent infestation
Droppings
Gnaw marks and wood damage
Footprints or tail drag marks
Grease trails along walls
Burrows in soil or debris
Live sightings
Diseases transmitted by rodents
Rodents spread diseases through bites, and contact with their feces, urine, saliva, or nesting materials. Common rodent-borne illnesses include:
