When it comes to having rodents in your house, your first reaction may be panic. And you wouldn’t be wrong! And while rodents are attracted to your home year-round, they are especially attracted to your home during the winter for many reasons (check out this blog to learn more about what attracts rodents to your home). However, the best way to combat rodents in your house is to know the different types of rodents that may be turning your house into their very own home.
The Different Types of Rodents in Your House
There are many different types of rodent species throughout the United States and every winter these pests will invade around 21 million homes. A survey conducted by the National Pest Management Association found that one-third of all homes in the U.S have experienced a rodent problem at some point which is why it is important to know about and be able to identify the different types of rodents in your house.
The rodents in your house are most likely either a mouse or a rat. While both rodents look similar, they do have their differences. And the best way to differentiate between the two is by looking at the length of the tail and size of body. Mice tend to be smaller with shorter tails compared to rats that are bigger with longer bodies and tails.
Knowing the different types of rodents in your house is key to understanding how to get rid of them.
The House Mouse
The first rodent in your house that may be causing you trouble this winter season is known as the house mouse. The house mouse is the most common type of rodent and can be found in every state in America. This little critter is known for its dark color, pointy nose, and small size. These mice usually range from one to three inches long with a six-inch tail.
House mice are attracted to your home because it provides them with everything they need; food, water, and shelter. And since rodents are known for breeding quickly, a small infestation of house mice can turn into a major problem in no time at all.
Roof Rats
The next rodents in your house that can wreak havoc on your home is known as the roof rat. This species of rodent first originated in Southeast Asia and is now prevalent throughout the U.S. in coastal and southern regions. Roof rats are typically larger than house mice, measuring six to eight inches long with a nine-inch tail. They are also distinguishable by their black fur and light belly. When you have these rodents in your house it is important to know that they tend to live in colonies in areas that are elevated such as roofs or trees.
Roof rats are attracted to your home because of the available food sources and warm shelter. Not only do these rats carry fleas, but they can also transmit a wide range of diseases. And just like house mice, these rodents can breed quickly so it is important to address any signs of an infestation as soon as possible.
Deer Mice
The next rodents in your house that may be causing you problems are deer mice. While these little guys are similar to other rodents, they have some key differences that set them apart from the rest of their rodent family. For example, this species of mouse is larger with longer tails compared to others and can vary in color depending on where you are located.
Deer mice typically nest in rural areas which means that you are most likely to find them in log pipes, fence posts, tree hollows, and any older wooden structures such as cabins, barns, and even sheds. This species of rodent is known for carrying hantavirus which can be extremely fatal in some human beings.
Norway Rats
The next rodents in your house that you should be aware of are the Norway rats. These rats are considered to be one of the most destructive pests and can cause a lot of damage both structurally and financially. The Norway rat is also known as the brown rat, sewer rat, and wharf rat. They are typically larger than both house mice and roof rats measuring seven to ten inches long with a twelve-inch tail.
Norway rats are found throughout the United States but are most common in coastal areas and along the east coast. These rodents are attracted to your home because it provides them with food, shelter, and warmth. They are also nocturnal rodents which means they come out at night to look for food leaving behind trails of destruction in their wake.
Squirrels
Next on the list of rodents in your house that you should be aware of are squirrels. While they may not seem like a major problem, squirrels can cause a lot of damage to your home by chewing through wires and insulation.
The most common squirrel to infest your home is known as the tree squirrel. These squirrels will typically enter your home looking for food or shelter. Once they find what they are looking for, they will set up camp and start breeding. And as you can imagine, this can quickly turn into a major problem. Because of their agility, squirrels can easily jump from the libs of trees to the rooftop of your home. So if you happen to hear scurrying noises or see any strange droppings it is most likely that you have these rodents in your house.
Groundhogs
The final rodent in your house that we want to talk about and that you should be aware of are groundhogs. These rodents are also known as woodchucks or whistle pigs because they emit a high-pitched chirping sound when startled which can often occur during the spring months once the mating season is underway.
Groundhogs typically live on grasslands and open woodlands. They tend to avoid heavily forested areas. This is the type of rodent that you will typically find burrowing in your yard which can lead to some serious damage to your property. Groundhogs are also herbivores and eat a variety of plants, fruits, and vegetables.
Get Rid of Rodents in Your House with Sigma Pest
Having rodents in your house is a serious problem. Not only because of the damage that they can cause throughout your home but also because of the various diseases that they carry. Our team at Sigma Pest Control is here to help you get rid of any rodents in your house along with any other pests that may be causing you trouble during the winter months. Contact our team for more information about our pest control packages!