Whether it’s a mouse in your house or rats on the roof, no one wants rodents in their home. Families generally feel unsettled when they hear rodents scurrying around. Beyond that, rodents can spread disease to humans, even if the two never meet. When you find out you have rodents, you may think a scorched-earth approach is in order. However, you should take a step back and consider your options. Read on to learn more.
Signs of Rodent Infestation
When it comes to rodents, you typically hear them before you see them. Scurrying and squeaking are sure signs of a rodent infestation. Eventually, you may notice physical signs like droppings, gnaw marks, and grease stains on and around the walls. As the infestation grows, your home may have a musty smell. When you begin smelling the rodents, it’s a sign that there are several of them in your home.
Identifying the Rodent Problem
Different species of rodents manifest in different ways. Mice and rats leave behind gnaw marks and grease stains. To tell them apart without seeing them, look at the droppings. Mouse droppings are about ¼ of an inch long, while rat droppings are closer to ¾ of an inch. Squirrels chew nearly anything. Major chewing-related damage and loud scurrying can be signs of squirrels. These are the most common rodents that find their way into Florida homes. If you need help figuring out what rodent is in your home, call the professionals for an inspection.
Trapping and Removal Methods
Traditional snapping mouse traps and glue traps are the best-known ways for removing mice and rats, but they’re not necessarily the most effective. Live traps present a more humane option that traps mice and rats while keeping them alive, allowing them to be released after the fact. However, you must release the animal at least 20 miles from your home to ensure it doesn’t return. The best way to remove a rodent infestation is to leave it to the professionals.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
After removing an infestation from your home, clean up the mess the rodents left behind. Clean and sanitize any hiding spaces and places where you’ve found evidence of pests. Use PPE while cleaning to avoid coming into contact with disease-spreading bacteria that rodents often carry.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Now that your home is clean, the next step is to keep the rodents away. Start by sealing all entry points, as mice can enter through the tiniest holes and gaps. Stay vigilant, and be on the lookout for signs of rodent activity. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, start a preventative pest control program with a professional pest control company.
Getting rid of a rodent infestation can be tricky, especially if you have a larger infestation than you realize. The Wilton Manors rodent control experts at Command Pest Control, a veteran-owned company with a 20-year history of exceptional service, are here to help you find and eliminate rodents from your home. Call us at 954-943-0008 or contact us online to schedule a free inspection.
