Signs of Rat/MiceInfestation:
Droppings – Fecal matter is a sign of rodent presence, and the amount of it can indicate the extent of the infestation.
Visual sightings – Seeing rats or mice often indicates a serious and probably well-established infestation.
Noises – Squeaks, gnawing sounds, and scurrying sounds could be caused by rodents.
Smudge marks – Rodents emit oily lipid material from their fur and leave greasy smudges at entry points and frequent travel paths.
Gnawing – Both rats and mice chew and gnaw materials, which is a sure sign of rodent presence. Rats and mice are known to gnaw the insulation of electrical wires, causing fire hazards. Mice are known to cause extensive damage to insulation materials.
Urine stains – Both rats and mice leave urine stains that can be detected with long-wavelength UV light as a yellow to blue fluorescent spot.
Control Methods:
1. Elimination of harborage is the most effective way to control rodents. This includes removing all general clutter from the home and storage areas to eliminate rodent hiding places.
2. Maintaining an open, well-kept perimeter around the home will also discourage rodent activity.
3. Eliminate free food and water sources.
4. Rodents must be denied entry into the home. This includes filling all structural cracks, screening fan, and vent openings, and installing drain covers to prevent rodent entry.
* Mice can fit into an opening the size of a human pinky fingernail.
* Rats can fit into an opening the size of a human thumbnail.
5. Mice and rats are exceptional climbers. Trim all tree limbs approx. 2-3 feet away from the structure is highly recommended.
6. Implement indoor, outdoor, or both rodent control systems. The rodent control system would include strategically placed glue boards, rodent traps, and rodent bait boxes.
Indoor trapping: Traps are a safe and effective method of eradication, especially for mice and roof rats. Rodents, especially rats, can become trap shy. Glue traps can also be effective, and they may trap roaches as well. Rodent control inside occupied buildings shall be accomplished with trapping devices only. All such devices shall be concealed and/or in protected areas so as not to be disturbed by those residing in the home (Adults, Children, and Pets). Trapping devices shall be checked every 1 to 3 days during population suppression and at reasonable intervals during maintenance activities.
Outdoor use of bait boxes: All bait boxes shall be placed out of general view where they will not be disturbed by those residing at the structure (Adults, Children, and Pets). The lids of the boxes shall be securely locked or fastened shut. All bait boxes shall be attached or anchored to the ground, building, wall, or other immovable surfaces so that the box cannot be picked up or moved. All bait boxes shall be labeled on the outside with the business name, contact information, and rodenticide used.