How Do I Get Rid of Rats & Mice in My Manassas, VA House Fast?
Rodents are very adaptable and harmful, generally speaking. In addition to the potential diseases any fleas or ticks they may be hosting pose as well; they carry a list of diseases. Causing damage to utility lines, structure, insulations, furnishings, and other property, rodents are known to damage homes. Rodents are also responsible for contaminating and pilfering food. Having rodents infest your home can be difficult and challenging to get rid of. The possible rodent species that might be invading your Virginia home is what we at CSI Home & Commercial Services would like to discuss today.
Norway Rats
Measuring from the tip of their nose down to the end of their tail, these rats average 16 inches and weigh over 17 ounces, just over a pound. Commonly known as the “big rats,” these rodents have capsule-shaped droppings that contribute to identifying an infestation. Also, these rats have ears and a tail covered in scales and they have shaggy brown or gray fur. Also, the length of their bodies is shorter than the tail. These rats are bulky though they take advantage of indoor living, they do prefer to live outdoors and nest in underground burrows. In addition to sewers and basements, popular nesting areas are the ground level of homes and businesses. Since they often nest in dense vegetation to offer more concealment, any vegetation surrounding your home increases the risk of a breach and an infestation. Norway rats will eat anything from garbage to other edibles, and being omnivorous critters, cockroaches, grains, seeds, meats, fruit, and other food wastes are in their diet. Though they are not social pests, Norway rats do live in communities with dominant and subordinate members.
Roof Rats
Roof rats measure about 15 inches from the tip of their nose to the end of their tails. They have larger ears and eyes, a longer tail, and a pointed nose when compared to other rats. They are smaller and sleeker than Norway rats, and their black or brown fur is smooth. For protection, these outdoor rodents stick to high places like in trees with dense leaves and branches since they are accomplished climbers. The attic space, and in the wall voids as well as above ceilings inside are the places they tend to stick. When they come into homes, it is usually because the food or water is scarce or to escape extreme weather conditions. Roof rats are also omnivorous and will eat nearly anything but tend to prefer fruit and nuts.
Common House Mouse
The house mouse has a white or light-colored belly, and their short hair varies from light brown or gray to black. The ears and tail have hair, but it is a bit sparser. The tip of the nose to the tail averages about 7 inches long and weight is about an ounce. Their droppings are rod-shaped and pointed on both ends. House mice are notorious for invading homes and business across Virginia. To gain entry to structures, their nesting habits cause minor damage and only require a ¼” crack or hole. These rodents prefer living indoors where food and water are readily available. These mice have shelter from the elements and predators. In unsanitary places, and other such areas house mice will often hide in the wall voids is where they choose to nest in clutter.
White-Footed Mouse
White-footed mice are very small, only about 3 1/2 – 4 inches long not including the length of the tail, which is often as long as the rest of the mouse’s body. White-footed mice are timid in nature and generally avoid humans. In the wild, they are omnivorous, eating seeds as well as insects they’ve found. However, in your home, they’ll feast on any leftover food they can find. The white-footed mouse prefers habitats that include forests and brush lands, specifically, the forest edge where vegetation is low and scrubby, as well as in the rural and sub-rural areas of Virginia. Insects, nuts, seeds, and berries are included in their diet in addition to the grass, weeds, or other low growing vegetation.
Rodent Control
Call CSI Home & Commercial Services and let our qualified experts conduct a thorough inspection and then begin a custom rodent control plan to best deal with any rodents on your property.
