Is there a mouse in your house?

Just because you haven't actually seen a mouse or rat doesn't mean your home is rodent-free. If you suspect you have unwanted intruders, how do you know for sure?

Droppings

Mouse droppings. Usually about 1/8" and black in color.

Norway rat. Droppings about ¾" long.

Roof rat (or black rat). Droppings about ½" long.

Footprints

Tracks can be spotted along areas where rodents travel. Dusting with flour or talc can help spot them. Use a strong flashlight at a low angle to check for tracks and tail drags.

Gnawing

Evidence of recent gnawing, especially on packaged goods, cardboard boxes and areas around pipes, ducts and vents. Holes can often be found along baseboards and in corners where an existing small hole or crack could be enlarged.

Rubmarks

Dark greasy marks formed by contact with the rat's body. Frequently found along areas where rodents travel.

Unusual pet activity

Your dog or cat pawing excitedly at a kitchen cabinet, the base of your refrigerator or a wall.

Sounds

Do you hear scampering noises in the walls at night? Chewing or gnawing sounds?

Burrows or nests

Look for them in the ground, along the outside of buildings.

Rodents are nocturnal, which means you rarely see them in daylight unless their environment has been disrupted. And if you see one, chances are it's not alone. Rodents live in groups and multiply quickly. If you have any of the signs of infestation, the time to act is now.