Let’s face it, a rodent infestation can happen anywhere. Even the best of homes can have rodents. You may not know how they got in, but there are some signs that will easily say you have an infestation present.

Signs of Rodent Infestation

Droppings

Normally, you can find droppings behind the kitchen cabinets, pantries, cupboards, drawers, bins, and places where food can be accessed. Rodents easily produce their droppings anywhere they stay, so it is easy to find out if you have an infestation.

Determine how old these droppings are. Older droppings are dull and gray, and may easily crumble as you clean them. Fresh droppings are usually softer, shinier and darker. Mice droppings are about 1/8 inch long, while rat droppings are over ½ inch in diameter and length.

Urine pools or trails

Aside from being prolific poopers, rodents are also known for their weak bladders. They will pee anywhere once the need arises. House mice also create “urinating pillars,” which are small mounds that are made of grease, dirt, and urine. You may find tiny drops of urine that leads to a mound.

The best way to look for rodent urine is by using a fluorescent or black light. With the use of these lights, you may be able to see dried rodent urine. But, be careful since some cleaning supplies such as bleach and detergents will also fluoresce under these lights.

Sights and sounds

If you suspect you have rodents in your home, it may mean that you have also seen them in plain sight. Most rodents are active at night time and you may see them running around once they feel that there is no one around to see them. To spot them, use a bright flashlight, and look inside cabinets and along stairways and rafters.

Rodents have a very limited range of living space that depends on their food source. Some mice may only be living with a 10 foot diameter while rats can live over 150 feet. If you find rodents in daytime, it means you have an infestation.

Try to listen to rodent sounds during the night. Scratching, gnawing or crawling in walls, rafters or cabinets are some signs of their presence. If infestation is present, you may hear such squeaking sounds as these rats fight for nesting spots.

Tracks and runways

Rats commonly follow odor trails and use the same runways going to their food, water sources and nests. Begin identifying rodent runways and rub-marks. Although their runways are difficult to spot, they also leave signs to finding them. Their tracks can also be seen since this can also tell you on the type of rodent you are battling with. Search for their small footprints or tail marks in dusty spots. Mice have the smallest feet that just measures 3/8 inch or less. Rats on the other hand, average between ¾ to 1 inch. Rats also drag their tails that leaves a mark between their foot tracks.

Nests

Rodents can easily create their nests using soft, fuzzy, or warm materials. They can collect fabric, furniture stuffing, quilt batting, grass, twigs, shredded paper, and so on. They will place these materials in out-of-the-way places like boxes, cabinets, and floors. They can place their nests anywhere they feel is cozy and warm. These nests are normally found in areas near food and water and in places where they are safe from other predators.

Preventing Rodents

Infestation by rodents and the damage they can create are not only costly to repair, but also dangerous to the health of the people they live with. To avoid a potential infestation make certain that you rodent proof your home and take action immediately once you find some proof of their existence in your home

Protect your home from rodents! For effective and safe rodent control, trust Preventive Pest Control. To schedule a free inspection, call us today!