How to Identify a Rodent Problem Before it Gets out of Hand

Rodents are a common winter pest in homes. Homes offer them a safe shelter, and if foodstuffs are readily available, that only adds to the attraction. Rodents that may create a problem for you include deer mice, house mice, Norway rats, roof rats and raccoons. To determine whether you have a rodent problem, take the following steps.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look for signs of rodent droppings. These are most likely to be found near food sources, including pet foods, as well as under the sink and in cupboards and drawers.

2. Look outside the house for any damage or evidence of raccoon entry. Typical locations include under the roof overhang, gable vents, shingles or even chimney crevices.

3. Search for evidence of mice or rat nests, which will usually be shredded paper, fabric or dry vegetable matter. They tend to nest where they feel safe, and where it is warm and dark, such as inside drawers and cabinets, near water tanks or inside furniture that is upholstered.

4. Examine food containers for signs of entry or attempted entry. Rodents are good at chewing and gnawing and food containers may show this evidence, as well as an unusually large amount of droppings in the vicinity.

5. Investigate any unusual pungent smells emanating from hidden areas as this could indicate the presence of a rodent problem. The smells will tend to be stale and musky and not at all pleasant.

Tips & Warnings

• Create an environment that is not conducive to rodent invasion. The simplest way to do this is to seal up any possible point of entry on the outside of the house, and remove any easy access to food and water in the house.

• Wear protective gloves and clothing when investigating any possible rodent problem. A face mask is also a wise precaution as the dust where rodents have been can carry disease.

• Certain rodents can carry diseases, such as hantavirus, caused by breathing in dust that has mixed with rodent feces or urine.