Rodent Identification & Prevention
What are rodents?
The easiest way to describe a rodent is to refer to its front teeth. All rodents living worldwide, no matter their shape, size, or color, all share one physical characteristic: continuously growing front incisors. A rodent's front teeth grow throughout its life and, due to their constant chewing, are worn down into a chisel-like shape.
Mice and rats are the most common example of rodents that home and business owners in Phoenix are very familiar with. Both mice and rats have a close relationship with people; they've learned that living in close proximity to humans helps them survive.
In our region, we have three different species of rodents that are regular visitors to our homes and businesses:
- House mice
- Roof rats
- Norway rats
Are rodents dangerous?
Rodents are dangerous not only because they use their front teeth to damage our personal items and home's structure (wires, pipes, cables, drywall, flooring, cabinets) but because they are vectors of harmful bacteria and diseases.
Rats and mice carry and spread many different diseases through their excrement and salvia that can make us sick. These pests spread leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM), tularemia, salmonellosis, and rat-bite fever. Other problems that rodents cause when inside of our structures include the following:
- Triggering allergies reactions and asthma attacks
- Causing short circuits and fires from chewing through wires
- Creating a musty, mildewy odor near their nesting sites
- Chewing larger entrances and exits in the exterior of your home
- Contaminating food and surfaces
Why do I have a rodent problem?
Arizona's harsh weather can sometimes make it difficult for wild animals to live comfortably. Over time, mice and rats have learned that living near or inside our homes or businesses will provide them with everything they need to live comfortably.
Our properties provide rodents with the following:
- Food
- Water
- Temperature-controlled shelter
Where will I find rodents?
Where rodents feel most comfortable depends on their species. The roof rat prefers to live and nest up off the ground while the Norway rat is a terrible climber and lives at ground level. The house mouse is small and agile and can make a home just about anywhere.
One thing these rodents have in common is they are all prey animals and will choose a secluded area to nest that keeps them out of the direct sight of people and their animal predators. Outside, they like to nest in trees and under shrubbery, woodpiles, fallen trees, and yard clutter.
Some of the most common places you'll find rodents in a home include:
- Attics
- Cabinets
- Roof eaves
- Wall voids
- Behind cabinets and appliances
- Basements and closets
- Under furniture
- In boxes and other clutter
How do I get rid of rodents?
Once inside, rodents will have no desire to leave your home which makes them difficult pests to get rid of. At Overson Pest Control, we can help you to take back your property from rodents with the help of our effective rodent control services and over ten years of combined experience!
We care about our customers and are committed to helping you solve your pest problems. With services backed by a 100% guarantee and unlimited free re-services, you can trust that we'll rid your property of rodents and help keep them from returning.
To learn more about working together and implementing our quality pest control services to protect your Phoenix area residential or commercial property from Arizona rodents, reach out to us today!
How can I prevent rodents in the future?
In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from rodents with the following prevention tips:
- Remove items from your yard that are unnecessary and act as nesting sites for rodents like old tires, construction materials, fallen trees, and other yard debris.
- Cut back shrubbery and tree branches away from your home's exterior.
- Repair leaky outdoor fixtures and hoses that could provide a water source for rodents.
- Limit their access to food on your property by removing bird feeders, keeping lids on trash cans, maintaining compost areas, and keeping outdoor eating areas free of food debris.
- Eliminate their access into your home by repairing holes in its exterior, covering vents and drains, maintaining caps on chimneys, and installing weatherstripping around windows and doors.
Helpful Rodent Articles
