When contacting an exterminator for rodents (mice or rats), it’s important to be aware of the signs:
– Droppings (for mice: black colour, round, up to 8mm, for rats: brown colour, shape similar to a grain of rice)
– Tracks or new holes
– Gnawing type marks from their teeth.
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Mice vs Rats – what are the main differences?
Aside from the obvious size differences between the two, rats tend to be much more careful and cautious compared to mice. Rats will be wary and avoid any new surroundings or items placed in their path (i.e. traps). In contrast, mice are more curious and will be more eager to investigate something new. It is critical to customize the mice or rat extermination methods based on these differences. A house mouse can enter an indoor dwelling from a hole as small as ¼ inch, whereas rats need a ½ inch opening. Rarely will both mice and rats be found in the same area, since rats will eat mice.
Droppings: Mice excrete tiny round or oval shaped droppings which are black in colour. Rats will leave behind much large droppings, ranging in colour of different shades of brown.
One key factor in behavioral difference between rats and mice relates to water consumption. Mice do not require water, but will drink a small amount (up to 3mL) if available. A rat, on the other hand, will need to drink at least 30-60mL of water per day. This means they need to exit the home at some point to find a water source, unless they have clear access to enough water in the home (i.e. open toilet, etc). With this in mind, it is helpful to search the exterior of the home to try and find possible entry/exit points.
For more information on strategy and rodent extermination, give us a call anytime to speak to an expert.
Mice vs Rats – what are the main differences?
Aside from the obvious size differences between the two, rats tend to be much more careful and cautious compared to mice. Rats will be wary and avoid any new surroundings or items placed in their path (i.e. traps). In contrast, mice are more curious and will be more eager to investigate something new. It is critical to customize the mice or rat extermination methods based on these differences. A house mouse can enter an indoor dwelling from a hole as small as ¼ inch, whereas rats need a ½ inch opening. Rarely will both mice and rats be found in the same area, since rats will eat mice.
Droppings: Mice excrete tiny round or oval shaped droppings which are black in colour. Rats will leave behind much large droppings, ranging in colour of different shades of brown.
One key factor in behavioral difference between rats and mice relates to water consumption. Mice do not require water, but will drink a small amount (up to 3mL) if available. A rat, on the other hand, will need to drink at least 30-60mL of water per day. This means they need to exit the home at some point to find a water source, unless they have clear access to enough water in the home (i.e. open toilet, etc). With this in mind, it is helpful to search the exterior of the home to try and find possible entry/exit points.
For more information on strategy and rodent extermination, give us a call anytime to speak to an expert.