Common Types of Rodents Invading Homes

One of the most encountered pests, rodents can be found all over the country. Did you know, they find their way into approximately 21 million U.S. homes each winter? In fact, according to a survey by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), nearly one-third of Americans have had a rodent problem in their home. Different types of rodents typically invade homes during the fall and winter in search of food and shelter as the climate cools, although they can still pose problems throughout the rest of the year. The majority of homeowners surveyed reported rodent sightings in the kitchen, as well as the basement and living room to lesser extents.

A rat or mouse problem inside a home or business can pose a big threat to both health and property. Various types of common rodents are known to spread Salmonella and other bacteria. They are also capable of triggering allergies and asthma attacks. They can also carry disease-causing parasites, such as ticks, fleas and lice. In addition to these health threats, rodents are known to damage drywall as well as wood and can also chew through electrical wires, increasing the risk of electrical fires.

Proper rodent prevention measures and awareness are essential to keep both people and property safe. Rats can squeeze through openings the size of a quarter while mice can fit through holes as small as a quarter of an inch in width. Once inside, females can breed quickly. For example, a single female mouse can have as many as 12 young every three weeks, allowing infestations to quickly grow.

Read on to learn more about the different types of rodents, as well as the best prevention techniques to keep them out of your home.

Source:

https://www.pestworld.org/news-hub/pest-articles/common-types-of-rodents-invading-homes/