MASA Pest Control Services

RODENTs

RODENTS (ORDER: RODENTIA)

Rodents are a highly diverse order of mammals with over 2,000 species, comprising about 40% of all mammalian species. They are characterized by a pair of continuously growing incisors in both the upper and lower jaws, which they must keep worn down by gnawing. Rodents are found worldwide in virtually every habitat, from urban areas to forests, deserts, and grasslands. While many species are harmless or even beneficial to humans, some are considered serious pests due to their ability to contaminate food, cause structural damage, and spread diseases.

Why Rodents Are Considered Pests in Homes and Other Environments

  1. Food Contamination:
  • Rodents contaminate food by gnawing through packaging, leaving droppings, and spreading harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella.
  1. Structural Damage:
  • Rodents gnaw on various materials, including wood, insulation, electrical wiring, and pipes. This behavior can lead to costly repairs and even fire hazards due to damaged wiring.
  1. Disease Transmission:
  • Rodents are vectors for numerous diseases, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, and plague. They also host parasites such as fleas and ticks, which can transmit additional diseases to humans and pets.
  1. Rapid Reproduction:
  • Rodents reproduce quickly, with some species producing large litters multiple times a year. This fast-breeding cycle can lead to severe infestations if not addressed early.
  1. Property Damage:
  • In addition to structural damage, rodents can ruin personal belongings, including clothing, furniture, and stored items, as they build nests and search for food.
Characteristics Norway Rat (Brown Rat) Roof Rat (Black Rat) House Mouse
Scientific Name
Rattus norvegicus
Rattus rattus
Mus musculus
Size
Large, 200-500 g; 20-25 cm body length
Smaller than Norway rats, 150-250 g; 16-20 cm body length
Small, 12-30 g; 6-9 cm body length
Color
Brown or gray with lighter underbelly
Black or dark brown with a lighter underbelly
Light brown to gray with a lighter underbelly
Habitat
Prefers low, damp areas like sewers, basements, and crawl spaces
Prefers high places like attics, roofs, and trees
Found indoors and outdoors; prefers hidden, cluttered areas
Reproduction
Produces 7-8 pups per litter, with 4-6 litters per year
Produces 5-8 pups per litter, with 4-6 litters per year
Produces 5-7 pups per litter, with 6-10 litters per year
Behavior
Excellent swimmers, but poor climbers; often burrow
Excellent climbers; nest in attics, walls, and trees
Adaptable, quick breeders; active year-round
Activity
Nocturnal, but may be seen during the day if food is scarce
Primarily nocturnal, with peak activity at dawn and dusk
Mostly nocturnal, but can be active during the day in larger infestations
Lifespan
Typically, 1-2 years
Typically, 1 year
9-12 months
Distinctive Traits
Strong, stocky body; leaves greasy marks on surfaces where they travel
Slender body, long tail; more agile and elusive than Norway rats
Small size and rapid reproduction make them difficult to control

Signs of Rodent Infestation

  1. Droppings:
  • Rodent droppings are often found near food sources, along walls, or in hidden nesting areas. Norway rat droppings are capsule-shaped, roof rat droppings are spindle-shaped, and mouse droppings are small and rod-shaped.
  1. Gnaw Marks:
  • Rodents gnaw on materials like wood, plastic, and wiring to keep their teeth sharp. Fresh gnaw marks are lighter in color and become darker over time.
  1. Nests:
  • Rodents build nests from shredded paper, fabric, and other soft materials. Nests are often located in hidden areas such as walls, attics, or crawl spaces.
  1. Grease Marks:
  • Rodents leave greasy smudge marks along walls and floors where they travel frequently. These marks are created by the oils in their fur.
  1. Noises:
  • Scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds, especially at night, can indicate rodent activity. These sounds are often heard in walls, ceilings, or under floors.

Prevention and Control

  1. Eliminate Food Sources:
  • Store food in rodent-proof containers, clean up crumbs and spills, and dispose of garbage regularly. Limit access to pet food and bird feeders.
  1. Seal Entry Points:
  • Rodents can enter buildings through tiny gaps or holes. Seal cracks, holes, and openings around doors, windows, pipes, and utility lines.
  1. Trap and Bait Systems:
  • Snap traps, glue traps, and bait stations are effective methods for capturing or killing rodents. Traps should be placed along known rodent pathways, near walls, or close to their nests.
  1. Sanitation:
  • Keep the environment clean and clutter-free. Remove potential nesting sites such as piles of debris, cardboard boxes, and stored clothing or papers.
  1. Professional Pest Control:
  • Large infestations often require professional pest control services to eliminate the problem effectively and prevent recurrence.

REFERENCES:

  • Nowak, R.M. (1999). Walker’s Mammals of the World (6th ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press.
  • Macdonald, D.W., & Barrett, P. (1993). Mammals of Europe. HarperCollins.
  • Corrigan, R.M. (2001). Rodent Control: A Practical Guide for Pest Management Professionals. GIE Media.
  • Jackson, W.B. (1984). “Norway Rats and Roof Rats.” Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage Handbook. University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension.
  • Frantz, S.C., & Davis, D.E. (1991). “Bionomics and Integrated Pest Management of Commensal Rodents.” Annual Review of Entomology, 36(1), 243-270.
  • Meehan, A.P. (1984). Rat and Mouse Control. Rentokil Limited.
  • Mills, J.N., & Childs, J.E. (1998). “Rodent-Borne Hemorrhagic Fever Viruses.” Emerging Infectious Diseases, 4(5), 719-725.
  • Meerburg, B.G., Singleton, G.R., & Kijlstra, A. (2009). “Rodent-Borne Diseases and Their Risks for Public Health.” Critical Reviews in Microbiology, 35(3), 221-270.

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