Identifying the Different Types of Rodents: The Ultimate Guide

Ever wonder what’s scurrying in your attic late at night? 

According to the United States Census Bureau, 14.8 million Americans reported seeing rodents in 2021 alone.

That’s a lot of houses! If you’re tired of uninvited furry guests, this ultimate guide will help you identify different types of rodents and learn how to keep them at bay. We’ll cover everything from common household rodents to some you never even knew could be a problem. 

The Usual Suspects: Most Common Household Rodents

Knowing your enemy is half the battle – and the first step in winning the war against household pests. 

Here’s an overview with what you might encounter:

House Mice

House mice are the most common rodents you’ll encounter. They’re small, usually about two to four inches long, and have a pointed snout with large ears. 

House mice can squeeze through tiny gaps and are excellent climbers. They love grains and seeds but won’t say no to leftover crumbs on your kitchen floor.

Roof Rats

Roof rats, also known as black rats, are another common household invader. These rodents prefer to live in high places, hence the name. They’re longer than house mice, typically measuring around six to eight inches without including their tail. 

Roof rats are notorious for chewing on wires and causing electrical problems. They’re omnivores and will feast on fruits, vegetables, and even meat if available.

Norway Rats

Norway rats, or brown rats, are larger and more robust compared to their roof-dwelling cousins. They prefer ground-level nests, often burrowing in basements or under piles of debris. 

Norway rats are opportunistic feeders, consuming almost anything, but they have a particular liking for meats and grains.

Deer Mice

Deer mice are often mistaken for house mice, but they have distinct differences. They’re slightly larger with white undersides and more prominent eyes. 

Deer mice are known carriers of the hantavirus, making them a health hazard. They prefer rural areas but can invade homes, particularly in the colder months.

Woodrats

Woodrats, or packrats, are named for their habit of collecting shiny objects and nesting materials. They’re medium-sized and have large, bushy tails. 

Unlike other rodents, woodrats are solitary creatures. They prefer outdoor nests but can occasionally find their way into homes, especially attics, to build their elaborate nests.

Voles

Voles are small, stocky rodents that resemble mice but have shorter tails and smaller eyes. They’re primarily outdoor pests, damaging gardens and landscapes by burrowing and feeding on plants. However, they can enter homes in search of food, particularly during winter.

Identifying Rodent Droppings

One of the easiest ways to identify a rodent problem is by examining their droppings. Different rodents leave different types of droppings, which can help you figure out what you’re dealing with.

Mouse Droppings

Mouse droppings are small, about the size of a grain of rice, and have pointed ends. They’re dark in color and are usually scattered around food sources or nesting areas. Finding a trail of droppings is a surefire sign of a mouse infestation.

Rat Droppings

Rat droppings are larger, about the size of a raisin, and have blunt ends. Norway rat droppings are typically shiny black, while roof rat droppings are more dark brown. You’ll often find them in concentrated piles near food sources or entry points.

Other Rodent Droppings

The droppings of less common rodents like deer mice and voles are similar in size to mouse droppings but may have a more irregular shape. Woodrat droppings are larger and may resemble those of small dogs.

Other Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Besides droppings, several other signs can indicate a rodent problem:

• Gnaw Marks: Rodents have strong teeth that never stop growing, so they gnaw on various materials to keep them in check. Look for gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture, and walls. Fresh marks are light-colored, while older ones darken over time.
• Nests: Rodents build nests using shredded paper, fabric, and other soft materials. You’ll typically find nests in hidden, secluded areas like attics, basements, and behind appliances. 
• Sounds: Rodents are nocturnal and are most active at night. Listen for scratching, scurrying, and squeaking noises in walls, ceilings, and floors. These sounds are often more pronounced in quiet areas of your home.

Preventing a Rodent Infestation

Once you’ve identified the type of rodent in your home, prevention is key to keeping them out:

Seal Entry Points

Rodents can squeeze through tiny gaps and cracks. Inspect your home’s exterior and seal any openings with caulk, steel wool, or metal flashing. Pay special attention to areas around pipes, vents, and doors.

Keep Food Secure

Store food in airtight containers and keep your kitchen clean. Regularly clean under appliances and dispose of garbage promptly. Eliminating food sources makes your home less attractive to rodents.

Maintain Cleanliness

A clutter-free home is less inviting to rodents. Regularly clean and declutter areas like basements, attics, and garages. Keep firewood and outdoor debris away from your house to reduce outdoor nesting opportunities.

Dealing with an Existing Infestation

If you already have a rodent problem, there are some steps you can take to get rid of it. 

First, traps – a tried-and-true method for catching rodents. Options include snap traps, glue traps, and live traps. Place traps along known pathways and bait them with food to increase effectiveness.

There are also chemical baits, or rodenticides, that can effectively eliminate rodents, but they need to be used with caution. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider professional help if needed.

Sometimes, a rodent infestation can be too severe to handle on your own. In these cases – or for situations that call for more intensive measures like rodenticides –  hiring a professional pest control service like Hawx Pest Control is the best option. We have the expertise and tools to effectively eliminate the problem and prevent future infestations.

Know Your Enemy – and Call in Hawx to Help Defeat It

Rodents are more than just a nuisance; they can pose serious health risks and cause significant damage to your home. By understanding the different types of rodents and their habits, you can take proactive steps to keep them out of your living space. 

Whether it’s identifying droppings, sealing entry points, or using traps, a well-rounded approach will help you maintain a rodent-free home. 

If you’re dealing with a persistent problem, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Join our family of satisfied customers and say goodbye to rodents once and for all with Hawx Pest Control.