Rodent Identification & Prevention

What are rodents?

Rodents are a type of mammal that live on every continent except Antarctica. Rodents are all characterized by their pair of continuously growing front incisors. Like many other pests we deal with regularly, rodents have learned to adapt to living near people – due in part to the sources of food, water, and shelter our properties provide to them.

Two of the most common species of rodents in our area are listed below:

House mouse
House mice are light brown to gray with light, cream-colored underbellies. They have pointed noses, and tails that are about the same length or a bit longer than their bodies and covered in a light layer of fur. As their name suggests, they are one of the most common rodents to invade homes and other structures.

Norway rat
Norway rats have bodies covered in shaggy, brown or gray-colored fur with lighter underbellies. They have blunt noses and long, scaly tails that are hairless. Norway rats aren’t particularly agile, and they usually enter buildings at the ground level.

Are rodents dangerous?

You should never ignore rodents when they are inside a structure, as they spread human pathogens, bacteria, and parasites that can potentially make people ill. Not only do rodents spread significant diseases, but they also cause a lot of damage to property. They constantly chew on objects they come across, such as electrical wires, plumbing pipes, insulation, drywall, flooring, furniture, and other personal belongings, to keep their teeth from overgrowing. These habits may also lead to short circuits, fires, and water damage.

Why do I have a rodent problem?

Rodents are common pests in urban, rural, and suburban areas. They live in wooded areas, parks, lakes, streams, fields, yards, and along riverbanks. Rodents are opportunistic pests that take advantage of any food and shelter they discover; they often find their way inside while foraging for food or to escape harsh weather.

Where will I find rodents?

Rodents, depending on their species, live in a variety of indoor and outdoor locations. House mice nest in tall grass, dense vegetation, under fallen trees, and woodpiles. Indoors, they nest in dark, secluded areas like behind wall voids, the backs of cupboards, in attics, and behind large appliances. Outside, Norway rats nest in fields, farmlands, riverbanks, trash piles, and under woodpiles. Inside, they nest in crawlspaces.

How do I get rid of rodents?

Partnering with Bull's Eye Pest Control is the best way to get rid of rodents and keep them from returning. At Bull's Eye Pest Control, we understand how stressful pest problems are and offer our customers fast response times and superior pest protection. Our highly trained and experienced professionals use only the best products and most advanced treatment methods available. For home and business owners looking to protect their property against mice, rats, and other pests, contact the Southern California pest control experts at Bull's Eye Pest Control and request your free inspection today!

How can I prevent rodents in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, keep rodents off your property by using the following prevention tips:

• Remove fallen trees, tree stumps, and other piles of debris from your property.

• Keep tight-fitting or locking lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins.

• Inspect your structure’s exterior and seal up any entry points you find.

• Place mesh covers over vents and drains entering your property.

• Regularly harvest fruits and vegetables from gardens.

• Remove bird feeders from your yard that attract foraging rodents.

• Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.

• Inside, keep storage areas free of debris to reduce hiding spots for rodents.

• Store any leftover food inside the refrigerator, or in glass or plastic storage containers.