Rodents

What Are Rodents?

Rodents live worldwide, and while most live far away from people, some, like mice and rats, have developed close relationships with people. These warm-blooded mammals have discovered that people and our structures are the keys to easy access to their basic needs. All rodents have large, sharp front incisors they use for gnawing and cheek teeth they use for chewing.

If rodents ever find their way onto your Virginia property, it is likely one of the following species:

• House mouse: Small oval-shaped rodents. They are agile, curious, and know how to live successfully with people. If you have a rodent in your home, it is likely a house mouse.
• Norway rat: Large, heavy bodies rats. These rats prefer to live at ground level and burrow under foundations, woodpiles, and garbage to nest and hide from predators.
• Roof rat: Thin-bodied, agile rats known for their climbing abilities. Roof rats love to climb trees and enter buildings from the roof.
• Meadow vole: They are blunt-nosed mice with stout bodies and short fur-covered tails. They are most problematic in rural areas as they inhabit fields, meadows, and other grassy open spaces.

Are Rodents Dangerous?

Contact with rodent feces, bites, or saliva can put you into contact with bacteria and pathogens that put you at risk of becoming ill. Worldwide, rodents are responsible for spreading more than 35 diseases. Rodents are also highly destructive; they use their teeth to chew through wires and pipes. They also damage clothing and furniture and chew through food packaging. Food waste and food contamination are significant concerns when rodents are around.

Why Do I Have A Rodent Problem?

Like any other critter, rodents spend most of their days dedicated to keeping their bellies full; unfortunately, our yards and homes often offer them a steady food supply. Gardens, fruit trees, trash cans, pet food, birdseed, and more can provide them with the nutrition they need to complete their life cycle. In addition to food, our properties also provide them with plenty of warm, safe places to nest and hide.

Where Will I Find Rodents?

One thing all rodents have in common is that they prefer to hang out in places that protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions. Shrubs, yard debris, and areas of tall grass, sheds, and garages are favorite outdoor hideouts.

When rodents wiggle their way into your house, they will quickly find a dark, quiet spot to nest. Attics, wall voids, crawlspaces, vents, gaps under floors, and spaces behind things like large appliances and cabinets are likely places to find rodents. If you suspect rodents have found their way to your property, the best way to identify whether the intruder is a house mouse, Norway rat, roof rat, or meadow mouse is to reach out to a local professional.

How Do I Get Rid Of Rodents?

Get rid of rodents from your home in the least frustrating way; by partnering with a local pest professional. At Diamond Exterminators and Crawlspace Solutions, we will identify the rodents on your property, find their nesting spots, and provide the treatments necessary to eliminate them. Then through our regular pest control services, we will work with you to stop them from returning! Call us today to learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control solutions in Hampton Roads. We are committed to helping our customers maintain pest-free properties.

How can I prevent rodents in the future?

Stop rodents from taking over your home by putting our rodent prevention guide into action:

• Regularly inspect your foundation and roofline for defects, repairing any discoveries.
• Repair damaged siding, trim, and window screens.
• Seal spaces around pipes and other utilities entering your home.
• Keep lids on trash cans and recycling bins to reduce food odors that attract rodent activity to your property.
• Remove bird feeders from your property.
• Cut back overgrown vegetation, keep the grass cut short, and maintain gardens.

If a rodent ever finds its way into your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to Diamond Exterminators and Crawlspace Solutions; we are here to help!