From tiny mice to larger rats, these little critters are known as pests that nobody really wants to deal with. They're quite skilled at sneaking into spaces, needing just the tiniest openings to slip into homes or businesses. Once inside, they're not picky eaters and will chew on almost anything they find, from pantry staples to pet food. Their quick breeding means a small issue can soon turn into a bigger one. Having rodents around can cause a few problems, like health risks to family members, employees and pets due to the spread of diseases. They can also cause some damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and other materials, which can lead to expensive repairs and safety hazards.
What Are the Common Rodents in Long Island?
House and deer mice are common home invaders but differ in many ways. House mice have solid color coats of light brown or grey and have virtually hairless tails When it comes to food, house mice will store food they find near their nest.
Deer mice are easily recognizable by their soft, brown or tan fur that covers most of their body, providing excellent camouflage in their natural surroundings. Their underbellies and legs are a stark white, creating a distinct contrast that is characteristic of this species. This coloring not only makes them easy to identify but also helps them blend into snowy landscapes during the chilly months.
Norway rats (as seen above) are much larger than house and deer mice. Their fur is shaggy and is brown or grey. To get inside, Norway rats will find an entry point and gnaw to make it bigger. They can chew through wood, pipes, and wires, causing immense damage in the process.
Here is a fact you should know: if rats and mice are in the same property, rats will attack and eat mice even though they are both rodents. It is survival of the fittest.
How Dangerous are Rodents?
Rodents have a knack for nibbling on all sorts of things, like electrical wires, insulation, and even walls, which can lead to some pricey repairs and safety concerns for homes and businesses. When insulation gets damaged, it might mean higher energy bills and a less cozy space. Plus, those chewed-up walls can not only look a bit messy but also invite other pests to drop by. While having rodents around can be a bit of a hassle, it's important to address them to keep your property and loved ones safe.
Both rats and mice can spread also disease through food contamination, their droppings and urine. These diseases include salmonella, hantavirus, plague, leptospirosis, and Lassa fever. If rodents have found their way into your home, you should seek help from the professionals at EM Pest Control.
How Do I Prevent a Rodent Infestation?
To try and keep rats and mice from getting into your home or business, you should practice the following DIY tips:
- Properly store all food, including pet food; we recommend airtight containers.
- Secure garbage both inside and outside of your home by ensuring they have lids that close as intended.
- Seal potential entry points. Even if a hole seems small to you, a rat or mouse can make its way in easily. Mice can fit through any openings the size of a dime and rats can fit through openings the size of a quarter.
- Keep your yard maintained and clean up dog feces, birdseed, fallen fruit, and nuts.
How do I Get Rid of Rodents?
So now that you know what kind of rodents you have, how do you get rid of them? While it’s tempting to try DIY methods, they often fall short in the long run It is crucial to take immediate action by contacting EM Pest Control. As a homeowner, protecting your home and family from the potential harm and health risks these pests bring is vital. For business owners, safeguarding your valued reputation, protecting your employees and ensuring a welcoming environment for your customers is equally crucial.
So, if rodents are bothersome, reach out to a rodent control expert. The exterminators at EM Pest Control are licensed, insured, and properly trained. Our team of experts are ready to assess the situation and provide effective solutions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a rodent-free environment for your home or business.
