The difference between mice and rats may seem obvious, but many of the differences may be more subtle than you think. One thing they do have in common is that they can cause extensive damage if they invade your home. Do you know the differences between rats and mice? If you had lots of time to look at a rodent you would be able to figure it out, but chances are you’ve seen one scurry across your floor and your fear an shock has taken away your ability to determine which one it was. Knowing these differences can help you decide the course of action you should take. Effective Pest Services offer some helpful identification tips below.
How Do I Identify a Mouse or Mice?
Mice are small rodents that can easily be confused with a small rat. They have tails that are significantly longer than their bodies. They also have large ears and soft fur that is lighter on their bellies. Mice can be two to four inches length. Mice prefer grains and plants but will eat just about anything they can find. If they find a constant source of food, they will build a nest using any type pf shredded material. Mice are very inquisitive and will investigate anything new. Mouse droppings have pointed ends and are about ¼ inch or less in size and they can produce up to 80 a day! Female mice will start having young when they are 6 months old and can have 10 litters with six in each litter over the course of their life. Mice can live for up to a year which that means an infestation can get out of hand very quickly.
What Does the Common Rat Look Like?
Rats are larger than mice and there are two types or rats- the brown rat and the black rat. Black rats are slender and have a pointed nose, while brown rats have thicker bodies with a blunt nose. Rats have small ears, large feet and a thick, hairless tail. Rats can be 7 to 9 inches in length. Rats will eat just about anything they can find and will create burrows by digging under buildings and near fence lines. They will stay close to their burrows as they search for food. Rats can get into a building through a hole as small as half an inch in diameter and will swim through broken drains and toilets to get inside. Rat droppings are banana shaped and ¾ inch in size. Female rats will start having young when they are 3 months old and can have 6 litters with 12 in each litter. Again, an infestation can grow very quickly.
Mouse & Rat Rodent Pest Inspections, Exclusion, Control, Removal & More in Wellington, Fort Collins, Timnath, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder, Johnstown, Berthoud, Estes Park & Loveland, CO | Northern Colorado
Rodent infestations can become huge headaches for homeowners. If you have either one of these rodents in your home, the damage can be significant. Rodents are also a public health threat as they can transmit bacteria and other disease agents. It is imperative that you have a professional come in and address the situation as quickly as possible. Do you suspect you’re living with these pests? Contact the experts at Effective Pest Services today!
