From tiny mice to larger rats, these pests are unwelcome guests. They're adept at sneaking into spaces through small openings. Once inside, they'll chew on almost anything, from pantry staples to pet food. In this post, we address the challenges posed by rodents and offer simple tips for effective rodent control. Whether facing early signs of infestation or a major pest problem, our expert advice and Long Island pest control strategies help you reclaim and protect your property.
What Are the Common Rodents in Long Island?
Long Island is home to several rodent species that can invade homes and businesses, including house mice, deer mice, Norway rats, Eastern gray squirrels, and Eastern chipmunks.
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House Mice: Small rodents with light brown or grey coats and nearly hairless tails. They store food near their nests, increasing contamination risks.
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Deer Mice: Recognizable by their brown or tan fur with white underbellies, these mice blend into natural surroundings and are more common in rural areas.
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Norway Rats: Large rodents with shaggy brown or grey fur that can gnaw through wood, pipes, and wires, causing significant property damage. They can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter.
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Eastern Gray Squirrels: Though often seen outdoors, these rodents can become a nuisance when they enter attics or chimneys. They have bushy tails, sharp claws for climbing, and a habit of gnawing on wood and wiring.
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Eastern Chipmunks: Small, striped rodents that burrow underground and store food for winter. While they are primarily outdoor creatures, chipmunks can sometimes enter homes, causing minor structural damage and food contamination.
Rodents in Long Island pose health and property risks, making professional pest control essential for effective removal and prevention.
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.
How Do I Prevent a Rodent Infestation?
To prevent rodent infestations in Long Island, follow these DIY rodent control tips:
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Proper Food Storage: Keep all food, including pet food, in airtight containers to discourage rodent presence.
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Secure Your Garbage: Ensure all indoor and outdoor garbage bins have secure lids that close properly.
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Seal Entry Points: Even a tiny gap is an open invitation to rodents. Mice can fit through openings as small as a dime, while Norway rats can squeeze through gaps the size of a quarter.
