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Do I have rats or mice?
Dealing with a pest infestation is never enjoyable, but identifying the type of pest is the initial step to address it. Rats and mice share many similarities, making it challenging to distinguish between them. To discern whether it’s rats or mice, pay attention to these key factors:
- Size and appearance
- The scale of the infestation
- Property damage incurred
Rats & Mice: Shared Characteristics
While rats and mice share numerous similarities, several distinct characteristics can help you differentiate between the two rodent species:
- Size: One of the most apparent distinctions is their size. Rats are notably larger, typically measuring between 6-9 inches in length, whereas mice are comparatively smaller, usually ranging from 2-5 inches.
- Body Proportions: Mice have relatively larger ears and tails in relation to their bodies, while rats feature smaller, hairier ears and larger feet.
- Droppings: Rat droppings are considerably larger, measuring around 10-20 mm in length, whereas mouse droppings are significantly smaller, typically only 1-2 mm long.
- Reproduction Rate: Mice are prolific breeders, often producing up to 10 litters each year, with as many as 14 mice per litter. In contrast, rats have a slower reproductive rate, giving birth to 3-6 litters annually, with up to 10 pups per litter.
- Feeding Habits: Mice are primarily herbivores, focusing on grains, seeds, and fruits as their main diet. Rats, on the other hand, are opportunistic scavengers with a broader appetite, including meat, grains, seeds, refuse, and a wider variety of foods.
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Rats & Mice: Shared Characteristics
Belonging to the rodent family, the majority of rat and mouse species exhibit remarkable similarities, including:
- Nocturnal Behavior: Both rodents are typically active during the night.
- Gnawing Habit: Rats and mice have strong teeth that continuously grow, leading them to gnaw on objects to keep their teeth in check.
- Similar Entry Points: They often use similar entry points to access buildings and homes.
- Droppings: They leave droppings as evidence of their presence, which can vary in size and shape.
Is A Rat Or Mouse Infestation Worse?
When dealing with rodent infestations, there’s no favorable scenario. Both rats and mice can transmit severe diseases and inflict substantial property harm. Regardless of the specific infestation, it’s imperative to promptly reach out to a skilled rodent control specialist.
For effective assistance with your rodent infestation, rely on the expertise of Arrow Exterminating. With 75 years of dedicated service in Long Island, our state-certified exterminators possess the knowledge to ensure long-term safety for your home or business against rats and mice.
