Rodent Risks & Identification

Norway rats can be as long as 9 ½ inches, including their tails. On the heavier and larger side, they can weigh over a pound. They have shaggy gray or brown fur and scaly ears and tails. They are natural diggers, creating burrows to get where they want to go. Yards with thick shrubs and unmaintained gardens and grass are ideal for them. Buildings that are older and poorly constructed are most susceptible to Norway rats. Their incessant digging can destroy foundations. They're most active at night, so you likely have a well-developed infestation if you spot one during the day. Also, be on the lookout for:

• Capsule-like Droppings that are about ½ inch long

• Rub or grease stains along edges; they leave these when they run

• Burrows outside along the perimeter of your property

House mice range in size reaching up to 3 ¾ inches in length. They have short fur that varies in color from brown, to gray or black. Their bellies are often lighter than the rest of their body. Their ears and tails are slightly hairy. They prefer the indoors to find food, and safety from other animals and unfavorable weather. They are drawn to warm temperatures and food scents. Signs of a house mice infestation include:

• Droppings that are rod-shaped and similar to a cockroach's

• Footprints: four-toed in the front and five-toed in the back

• Tunnels that are covered in droppings

• Scratching or squeaking sounds within walls

Roof rats can reach 16 inches in size, including their tail. Their scaly tails are longer than their bodies. They have big eyes and ears, and black or brown fur. The "roof rat" name comes from their love of heights. They can access your roof from things like tree branches and power lines. They tend to nest in high places such as in your insulation, attics, rafters and garages. You probably have an infestation if you see the following:

• Pointy droppings that are about ½ inch in size

• Seeing them live or dead in daylight; they only come out if their nests are full or have been disturbed

Rodents have ever-growing teeth that they trim by gnawing. Chew marks on walls, foundations and wires are definitely an indication they're present. Should they get to electrical cords, it could start a fire. This isn't the only risk of Rodents, though. They carry parasites and bacteria. They can spread diseases to humans by contaminating food and spaces with their waste, saliva and crawling. Therefore, contact with rodents, their bites, or their feces can be quite dangerous.

Prevent Rodents From Getting Into Your Wilmington Home

Rodents can enter your property through the smallest of holes; even ones less than a 1/2 inch in diameter. As mentioned, they don't just come in from the ground level either. It might seem impossible to avoid these pests. However, there are many things Wilmington residents can do to prevent rodents:

• Keep food sources sealed; use tight storage containers and garbage-can lids.

• Repair leaks and cracks around water sources, like pipes.

• Close gaps and holes around walls, vents, windows and doors; you can try a caulking compound. 

• Groom greenery and keep it away from the exterior of your home.

Many rodent types are attracted to dark, damp, and low-traffic spaces. Some key areas to check are basements, storage zones, attics and crawlspaces.

Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators Have The Rodent Control Options You Need

Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators have the experience necessary to tackle your rodent problem. Rodents and other pests are no match for us. We use safe and eco-friendly products, such as traps, baits and pesticides. We'll find and address rodent entry-points, both indoors and outdoors. We also provide future prevention information so that you can keep rodents from returning to your home. Rodents are fast breeders, so don't hesitate to call us and receive your free consultation today.