Rodents are a common pest across the United States, and here in St. Louis, it is no different. It is estimated that one-third of homes in America have rodent problems annually. This is especially true in the fall and winter months when rodents come inside looking for shelter.
 
The two most common home-invading rodents are rats and mice. While they may look similar, there are some differences that can help you tell them apart:

• Mice: Smaller-bodied rodents, usually 1 to 4 inches long and weighing 1/2 to 1 ounce. They have small heads with large, hairy ears, and tails that are longer than their body size. They are usually brown in color with some gray shading and dark tail.
• Rats: Larger rodents that are up to 8 inches long with 9-inch tails, rats can weigh up to 11 ounces. They are usually brown in color and have larger feet and heads for their body compared to mice.

To be sure you are properly identifying the species of rodent in your home, contact us at Arenz Pest Management.

How Do They Get In?

Whatever species you are dealing with, you don’t want it in your home. Unfortunately, mice and rats are very skilled at sneaking in through the smallest cracks and crevices. For a mouse to sneak in, all they need is an opening no bigger than a quarter of an inch, while rats just need a quarter-sized hole.

Once they are in, they can cause major problems. Rodents breed quickly, so a few mice or rats in your home can quickly turn into a full-scale infestation. This becomes a problem because rodents are known to spread pathogens like salmonella, E. coli, and the Bubonic plague, as well as trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks, and carry parasites like fleas, ticks, and lice. They can also destroy your property, chewing through wires and pipes which can cause fires and flooding.

How Do I Keep Them Out?

With all the dangers and issues that come from living with rodents, keeping them out of your home is key to keeping your family safe and property protected. There is no substitute for professional rodent control, but there are things you can do on your own to keep rodents out of your home. Following these tips can help prevent rodents from taking over:

• Install door sweeps on exterior doors.
• Screen vents, chimneys, and any other openings around your home.
• Seal cracks and crevices around your home.
• Seal around areas where pipes and utilities enter your home using steel wool or caulk.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Take trash out regularly.
• Keep unused areas of your home dry and well ventilated.
• Inspect items like boxes, decorations, and bags for signs of rodents before bringing them inside.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet from your home

If you have questions about what you can do to keep rodents out, or want professional help identifying areas of your home that may be attracting rodents, contact us today for a free inspection.

Professional Help

A rodent infestation can be difficult to deal with on your own. These pests are known for hiding in areas of your home where you may not see them. While the baits and traps you buy at a local hardware store may kill some mice, they won’t reach those hidden pests or get to the root of the infestation.

If you are dealing with a rodent infestation in your home, call us immediately. Our trained technicians can identify the species that is threatening your home and know the exact steps to take to eliminate it. We will also inspect your property to determine how rodents got into your home in the first place, helping you keep these annoying and dangerous pests from coming back. Reach out today and get started on our effective home pest control services.

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