Rodents are the most common pest to infest San Antonio homes and commercial properties. They can cause a variety of health problems, and they also pose significant health risks to humans and pets. The issue can turn into a bigger one if left unnoticed or unhandled. Although the severity of signs of rodent infestation in the home differs from one situation to another, several common indications are experienced by almost everyone who has encountered it. We have made a list of 5 of the most common indicators of a rodent infestation, so you can call on pest control in San Antonio before the situation gets out of hand.
1. Droppings & Urine Stains
Rats and mice produce droppings that are 1/4 to 3/8 inches long, dark colored, and blunt at one end. Mice also leave behind tiny hairs from their bodies when they travel through a room. Rodent droppings are typically found near food sources and along walls, especially near pipes and vents where rodents like to nest. Rodent urine stains are usually detected on floors, ceilings, and walls. In some cases, the urine stains may be hard to spot because they may appear as small brown spots or streaks on surfaces.
2. Chew Marks & Visible Damage
Rodents chew on various items, such as furniture and wires, to gain access to food materials and shelter from predators. Rodent chew marks will typically appear on wooden furniture or other items made of soft materials, such as cardboard boxes and books. You may find chew marks in areas like baseboards, walls, and ceilings, but they may also chew holes in plastic containers or bags left around your garage or basement area. In some cases, you may also find chew marks on electrical wires, which could lead to fire hazards if left unattended for too long.
3. Scratching or Gnawing Noises
Rodents are nocturnal animals, so if you hear scratching or gnawing noises in the middle of the night, it could be because of a rodent problem in your home. The noise will usually come from behind walls or under floorboards, so check out these places first if you hear these sounds at night.
4. Interior or Exterior Holes
Rodents leave behind holes in walls, floors, and ceilings when they chew on them for food or shelter. Holes will not only allow you to see evidence of a rodent infestation, but they can also provide entry points for other pests like cockroaches and spiders because rodents often carry them with them when they move into homes or businesses. Holes may vary in size—from small ones that are only an inch wide, to larger holes that are several inches wide and deep enough for someone to fit their hand.
5. Musky & Unpleasant Odors
Rodents leave behind a musky and unpleasant odor, which is often very difficult to eradicate. This odor is usually a result of urine, feces, and other bodily secretions. Rodents also emit an odor when they die or decompose, further aggravating the situation.
Conclusion
So, now that you know the signs of rodent infestations, are you at risk of rodents visiting your home? The only way to answer this question is to learn who is most at risk for rodent infestation. Rodents are adept scavengers and know when any food-related establishment isn’t being maintained properly. As a result, the most widespread areas with rodent problems are those that house food services and grocery stores. However, even places like nursing homes and restaurants have been known to have rat problems. If you need more information about whether mice are living in your walls, or have infested your home or business, contact San Antonio rodent removal as soon as possible.
