Rodents will come into your San Diego County home and cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. At HomeShield Pest Control, we have been providing pest control in San Diego County for years. Not only do we know how to identify all of the common rodents in this area but we also know the steps that need to be taken to achieve total rodent control.
Characteristics Of Common Rodents
The two main types of rodents that are most likely to sneak into your San Diego County home are mice and rats. Both of these rodents are destructive and dangerous. Here is a closer look at the types of rats and mice that are in this area:
- Roof rat: Also referred to as the black rat. The roof rat has a long and lean body that is about six to eight inches long and is covered in black and brown fur. They also have long, scaly tails that are usually the same length as their bodies. Their long tail allows them to balance on thin objects.
- Norway rat: This is one of the most common types of rats that are found in homes and businesses. It is commonly referred to as the street rat or the sewer rat. The Norway rat typically has a longer body that is anywhere from seven to nine inches long. Their tails are usually an inch or two shorter than their bodies. Everything except for their feet and tail is covered in light brown fur. Their large feet help them to be skilled swimmers and climbers.
- House mouse: This is one of the most common types of rodents found in California homes. They are much smaller than their rat cousins and usually only measure around two to three inches long. Their bodies have brown or gray fur that may have strands of black fur as well. They also have large ears and big round eyes.
All the rodents commonly found in this area can sneak into your home without you realizing it. They do not need a large entrance. Instead, most rodents can squeeze their bodies through tiny cracks only a quarter of an inch wide.
Rodents Spread Disease And Damage Property
Rodents can be destructive and dangerous animals to have around your home. Both mice and rats have teeth that continue to grow throughout their entire lives. To keep the growth down to a minimum, they need to chew on wood and other materials often. This means that if you have a rodent infestation, you will commonly see holes chewed through your walls, cabinets, furniture, clothing, and any other object that they can get their mouths around. They have also been known to chew on the electrical wiring located behind your walls. This could cause a shortage in your electrical system and could also be a potential fire hazard.
Rodents are also known to spread a wide range of diseases, including hantavirus, salmonellosis, and leptospirosis. Rats and mice will most commonly spread these illnesses through indirect contact.
The Hassles With Do-It-Yourself Rodent Control
DIY rodent control solutions rarely work because they do not address the root of the problem. To successfully eliminate rodents from your home, you must understand their habits and behaviors. Only professionals should handle rodent problems. They can predict where and when the rodents will be most active.
Professional Rodent Control Is The Best Solution
If you are having a hard time getting rid of the rodents in your San Diego County home, feel free to give us a call today. A HomeShield Pest Control, we know the best way to eliminate rodents for good.