Rodents

What are rodents?

The order “Rodentia” characterizes mammals that have incisors that continuously grow throughout their lifetime. To keep their teeth short and healthy, they constantly gnaw on objects. One of the most common types of animal in the world are rodents, and they are pests that often find their way into our yards and homes. Some of the most common rodents in our area of North Carolina are the Norway rat, roof rat, and mouse.

Norway rats have a dense body and a blunt nose. These rats are not agile and tend to get into buildings at the ground level. In contrast, the roof rat is smaller in size and has a light, thin body. They are great climbers and often enter buildings at the roof level. Both Norway rats and roof rats have a scaly tail that is void of hair. The mouse is a small rodent species. Mice have a pointed nose, small dark eyes, and large ears that stand up off of their head. Their ears and tail have a light layer of velvety fur. The fur of both mice and rats vary in color depending on their species, from light brown to black, with the underbelly usually a lighter color.

Are rodents dangerous?

Rodents are dangerous and unwanted pests that can cause harm to both people and property. To prevent their front incisors from overgrowing, they constantly gnaw on objects. When inside a home, they will damage wires, pipes, insulation, flooring, clothing, furniture, and more. Their chewing may trigger electrical shorts or fires. They can also spread a variety of human pathogens, bacteria, and parasites, which have the potential to cause health problems. In addition, their urine, feces, and saliva will contaminate food sources.

Why do I have a rodent problem?

The reason rodents gravitate to our properties is for easy to access to food, water, and shelter from the extreme heat or cold. The most common things that attract rodents to a property include open trash cans, compost, gardens, and debris.

Where will I find rodents?

Rodents live in a variety of environments, depending on their species.

Mice
Mice live outside in areas that keep them hidden from predators. They nest in tall grass, dense vegetation, under fallen trees, and in wood or rock piles. When mice move inside to nest, they usually do so behind wall voids, in attics, in basements, and behind large appliances.

Roof Rats
Roof rats, because of their great climbing ability, usually nest up off of the ground in trees. They also nest in thick shrubbery and woodpiles. Attics, rafters, and the upper levels of buildings are popular places for roof rats to nest.

Norway Rats
Norway rats are large, heavy rats and prefer to nest at ground level. Inside, they nest in basements and crawl spaces. Outside they reside in fields, farmlands, along riverbanks, in trash piles, and under woodpiles.

How do I get rid of rodents?

Eliminating household pests is a job best left up to a professional. Get rid of rodents and other household pests from your Wilmington area home with the help of the local experts at Jay Taylor Exterminating. With over 75 years of experience in the industry, we know how to get pests out and keep them out! Our professionals deliver high-quality pest control and exceptional customer service that you can count on.

For homeowners looking to maintain a pest-free household, reach out to Jay Taylor Exterminating and learn about our residential pest control solutions today!

How can I prevent rodents in the future?

Avoid attracting rodents to your North Carolina property by implementing some of these rodent prevention tips in and around your home:

• Cut tree branches, shrubs, and bushes away from the exterior of your home.
• Eliminate entry points in the foundation, exterior walls, and roofline of your home.
• Keep tight-fitting or locking lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins.
• Regularly harvest garden areas.
• Remove bird feeders from your property.
• Store any leftover food in the refrigerator or airtight containers.
• Remove trash from your home daily.
• Keep clutter in your home to a minimum.