Rodents
The term “rodent” encompasses a number of different animals. Generally, rodents refer to mice, rats, and squirrels. People often confuse animals such as possums and racoons as rodents; however, they are not classified as such. Rodents are most identifiable by their large front teeth, which are used for “gnawing” on food. Their small size allows them to easily enter a home or business through small gaps and entry-ways. Their attraction to cardboard objects, stray crumbs, and garbage makes both residential and commercial buildings a prime location for rodent infestations.
Signs of Infestation and Risks
Rodents are incredibly adaptable animals, which can make it difficult to exterminate them once they’ve entered the home. Their gnawing tendencies allow them to chew their way through wires and other materials within your home. Rodents can also pose a risk to your health and wellbeing. Rodents often carry fleas and are transmitters of diseases. Some of these diseases, such as lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, have been linked to the development of meningitis. When attempting to remove a rodent from the home without professional assistance you are placed at a much higher risk of being bitten by the rodent and, as a result, more susceptible to contracting a disease.
Understanding the signs of a rodent infestation is important to protect both your property and your health. Typical indicators are the presence of rodent droppings (small, pellet-looking objects), gnaw-marks, and scratching sounds. Rodents reproduce quickly, so these indicators become increasingly noticeable as the infestation progresses.
Importance of Treatment
Attempting to handle a rodent infestation without a professional is possible, but not necessarily recommended. Aside from higher risks of injury associated with DIY-rodent extermination, there’s also a risk of not fully eliminating the infestation. One rodent can indicate the presence of other rodents and pests within a home, meaning the removal of one pest may not get rid of your infestation.
Contacting your pest control specialist is the best course of action to ensure that your rodent problems are fully taken care of.