8 Warning Signs of Rodent Infestation

August 14, 2022

Rats and mice are scavengers. They will dwell in places where there is a good source of food. Mice could even live in the cold freezer feeding on your frozen food. 

These pesky rodents wouldn’t go very far from places where food is always available. That is why they love to stay in our homes. This article will teach you eight warning signs of a rodent infestation. 

Let’s see these signs.

1. Mouse Droppings

You can immediately tell that your home is infested with rodents when you see rat or mouse poop scattered in every corner of the house, on the kitchen counter, drawers, and cabinets. Rat manure looks like olive seeds. Mouse droppings are smooth with pointed ends.

2. Tracks and Runways

Rodent tails often leave a mark. When rats and mice travel to search for food, they leave a trail along the way. You can see these tracks in mud, dust, and dirt. Try putting chalk dust or unscented talcum powder in areas you suspect these rodents to pass by.

Odorous house ants, also known as “sugar ants,” are annoying pests here in the Pacific Northwest. They are known for their scent which smells like rotten coconuts or blue cheese when crushed. Meanwhile, moisture ants are known for their habit of nesting in damp environments. While they won’t infest wood that isn’t already damaged, their tunneling can cause structural damage that you’ll have to address as soon as possible.

3. Hole in the Wall

Rodents drill holes to enter your house. A hole in the wall is another sign they have invaded your home. Too many holes in the wall could mean a rodent infestation. These rats also need to chew constantly to wear down their teeth. They chew on almost anything they can bite.

4. Burrows and Nests

Rats will dig through walls, fences, and the floor to make a pathway or two to build their nest. A rodent’s nest looks like a 6-inch loosely woven ball of shredded pepper. If you see these little ditches in your house, consider rodent control. Rats are invading your home.

5. Grease Marks

Rats have oily fur. As they move around the house, they rub their hide on walls, doors, and rat holes. They tend to leave grease marks on these surfaces where they pass by.

6. Urine Stains

You can immediately tell that your home is infested with rodents when you see rat or mouse poop scattered in every corner of the house, on the kitchen counter, drawers, and cabinets. Rat manure looks like olive seeds. Mouse droppings are smooth with pointed ends.

7. Food Fragments

Mice tend to leave behind partially eaten food, such as a particle of cheese. Rats usually finish all their food. But, they still leave behind traces of cracked shells and fragments of material they chewed on.

8. Rats in Broad Daylight

The most obvious clue that you have rodent infestation is when you start seeing these vermins roaming freely around even in broad daylight. Rats are territorial creatures. They also compete with each other for lodging places.

Rats and mice also make sounds when they hunt for food at night. In a poorly ventilated room, you could easily smell the musky odor of their urine. If you see all these signs in your home, call us. We can help you get rid of those awful critters.

Control Rodents with Sunrise Pest Management

Rats are dangerous. They are not only filthy, but they also have a deadly bite. If you need help getting rid of these rodents, contact Sunrise Pest Management. We offer you a customized approach to ending your rodent problems. 

Call us today to get a free quote or schedule an appointment.