Rodent Pest Control
What are rodents?
Rodents, those scurrying, nibbling creatures that can send shivers down the spines of even the bravest homeowners, are more than just unwelcome guests. They pose a significant threat to our health and property, making it crucial to take effective measures to keep them at bay.
What are the different types of rodents?
Rodents are a diverse group of mammals that are found all over the world. There are over 2,000 species of rodents, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Some of the most common types of rodents include rats, mice, squirrels, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, and chinchillas.
The most common type of these rodents are rats and mice.
Rats and mice are both rodents, but they have several key differences. Rats are larger than mice, with adults typically measuring between 7 and 12 inches in length (including the tail). Mice are smaller, with adults typically measuring between 2 and 4 inches in length (including the tail). Rats also have larger ears and longer tails than mice.
These unwelcome creatures wreak havoc on homes and businesses, causing both property damage and health risks.
Are rodents dangerous?
The vast majority are harmless creatures. But, rats and mice can be dangerous. They can carry and transmit a variety of diseases, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis. Rats and mice can also bite humans, and their bites can be painful and even transmit diseases.
Here are some damages they can cause:
Property Damage:
Rats and mice, with their relentless gnawing habits, can cause extensive damage to structures. They gnaw through wood, wires, and pipes, compromising the integrity of buildings and increasing the risk of fires and electrical hazards. Their sharp incisors can also penetrate food containers and packaging, contaminating food supplies and rendering them unfit for consumption.
Health Risks:
Rats and mice are carriers of a variety of diseases, some of which can be fatal to humans. They spread diseases through their droppings, saliva, and bites. Hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis are just a few of the diseases that can be transmitted by rodents. These diseases can cause symptoms ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to severe respiratory distress and even death.
Allergens and Contaminants:
Rodent droppings, fur, and urine can trigger allergies and respiratory problems in individuals with sensitivities. These allergens can become airborne and spread throughout a home or business, causing discomfort and potential health complications. Additionally, rodent infestations can lead to the accumulation of dust, mold, and other contaminants, further exacerbating respiratory issues.
Economic Impact:
Rodent infestations can have a significant financial impact on homeowners and businesses. The costs associated with repairs, pest control services, and lost productivity can be substantial. In addition, rodent infestations can damage the reputation of businesses, leading to lost customers and revenue.
Signs of rodent infestation?
There are a number of signs that can indicate that your home or office has been invaded by a rodent, most especially a rat or mouse. Some common signs include:
- Droppings: Rodents leave droppings that resemble small, dark pellets.
- Gnaw marks: Rats and mice will likely gnaw on wood, wires, and other materials.
- Smudges and smears: They leave greasy smudges and smears along walls and baseboards.
- Nesting materials: Most rodents usually gather various materials, such as shredded paper, cardboard, or fabric, to build their nests.
Most common diseases carried by rodents
Rodents can transmit a variety of diseases, some of which can be serious or even fatal. Leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonellosis are just a few examples of diseases that can be spread by rodents.
Leptospirosis:
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by a type of bacteria called Leptospira. Rodents, especially rats, can carry the bacteria in their urine. If water or soil is contaminated with this urine, and you come into contact with it (through cuts or mucous membranes), you can get infected.
Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and sometimes more severe symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Hantavirus:
Hantavirus is a group of viruses carried by some rodents, especially deer mice. People can become infected by breathing in air contaminated with the virus from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. It can also spread through direct contact with rodent waste.
Symptoms: Early symptoms are similar to the flu, but it can progress to more severe respiratory problems, and in some cases, it can be fatal.
Salmonellosis:
Salmonellosis is an infection caused by the Salmonella bacteria. Rodents, like mice and rats, can carry Salmonella and spread it through their droppings. Humans can get infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacteria or by touching surfaces contaminated with rodent feces.
Symptoms: Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious illness.
How can I protect myself from rodent-borne diseases?
For the most part, simply practicing good hygiene and handling food safely goes a long way.
Here are a some simple steps you can take to prevent the spread of these rodent-borne diseases.
- Clean up to remove food, water, and shelter sources for rodents. Dispose of garbage regularly and clean areas with signs of rodent activity.
- Keep wild mice and rats out of your home by promptly cleaning up spilled food, washing dishes, and putting away pet food after use. Avoid leaving food or water bowls out overnight.
- Avoid handling rodents directly. If contact is necessary, wear proper protective gear such as gloves and masks. Disinfect after any contact with mice or rats.
- Rodents can be discouraged from entering your home by caulking cracks and holes, setting traps, excluding your homes, and keeping places tidy.
- Limit contact with the blood, urine, or feces of potentially infected animals. Wear personal protective clothing when working with rodents.
- Typhoid caused by rodents can be treated with antibiotics, and vaccines are available to provide protection from infection.
What are the best ways to prevent rodent infestations?
A proactive approach is key to keeping rodents at bay. Simple measures like sealing up entry points, storing food properly, and eliminating clutter can create an unwelcoming environment for these unwelcome visitors.
- Seal holes inside and outside the home to keep rodents out.
- Remove potential rodent nesting sites to discourage infestations.
- Keep food sealed in thick containers with tight lids and clean up spilled food promptly.
- Inspect your home regularly for cracks and gaps around the foundation, doors, and windows.
- Cut off entry points by trimming vegetation and eliminating outdoor access.
- Practice cleanliness in and around your home to remove attractants for rodents.
- Use traps, bait stations, and other preventive measures to control rodent infestations.
- Eliminate sources of water to make the environment less attractive to rodents.
- Ventilate and keep attics, basements, and crawl spaces well-maintained to prevent rodent entry.
- Call us for professional rodent control.