The Difference Between Mice & Rats In Hampton Roads
What is the difference between mice and rats? Is my Hampton Roads home at risk? Read on to discover if you should call PESTOUT® today. Mice and rats share some similarities with their overall appearance and physical characteristics, but the most significant difference is in their size. Mice are considerably smaller than rats, rats growing up to 9½ inches long while mice tend to be under 4 inches long.
Mice have a hairy tail, nearly as long as their body, while rats have a hairless tail that is considerably shorter by comparison. Mice have a pointed muzzle, whereas rats have a blunt muzzle. Rats have small eyes and ears, and mice also have small eyes but have more prominent ears. Both mice and rats are destructive, disease-carrying rodents that can cause a considerable amount of damage in your Hampton Road home as well as create potential illness for you and your family. Mice and rats are both territorial creatures, so that you may find yourself with a mouse problem, a rat problem, but never both at the same time.
Signs Of Mice In Your Hampton Roads Home
Unfortunately, once you see signs of mice in your Hampton Roads home, it’s likely you already have an infestation of mice lurking around your property. Mice breed rapidly, producing roughly a half dozen babies every three weeks or up to thirty-five in one year! Because of their ability to reproduce so quickly, it is tough to get rid of them on your own. Still, it is a good idea to know the signs of a mouse infestation, so you know when to call the professionals at PESTOUT.
- Mouse Droppings Appear: Mouse droppings are brown to black and shaped like small seeds.
- Gnaw Marks: Mice are prolific chewers and will gnaw their way through your belongings and your home.
- Damage: Mice can cause a significant amount of damage in just a short period due to their incessant chewing.
- Smell: Mouse urine is incredibly strong and can overpower your space.
- Nest: Mice will use any materials they can find to create a nest for their babies.
- An Actual Rodent: Though they tend to try to steer clear of humans, occasionally, they will get caught. Remember, if you see a mouse, there are almost certainly several more nearby.
Tips To Keep Mice Away From Your Hampton Roads Home
The key to mouse prevention is knowing how they get inside your home and how to stop them. Read on for mice prevention tips to keep your Hampton Roads clear of a mouse infestation:
- Inspect your home for areas around piping and wires that a mouse could easily gain access to your home.
- Seal up any areas with silicone caulking.
- Install caps on vents and chimneys.
- Keep trash stored well away from the exterior of your home.
- Install weather stripping on doors and windows to ensure a proper seal.
- Keep your home free of clutter.
The Best Mouse Control For Hampton Roads Homes
The best way to get rid of mice in your Hampton Roads home is by calling PESTOUT at the first sign of a mouse infestation. Our pest specialists offer targeted pest control to serve your pest control needs better. Because of our attention to detail, expansive knowledge, and prompt and courteous associates, we are the best choice in Hampton Roads to get rid of mice fast. Call us today and let us take away your worry!