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Rodents

Rodents are some of the most troublesome and economically important pests in California. Rodents thrive under a wide variety of climates and conditions. They are often found in and around homes and other structures. Rats and mice contaminate food intended for humans and animals. Rodents also cause considerable damage to property and structures. Rats and mice transmit pathogens that cause disease, such as salmonellosis.

 

Norway Rats

Norway Rats are a burrowing rat, also known as a Brown Rat or a Sewer Rat. They are stocky and bigger than a Roof Rat. Most of their burrows are found along building foundations, beneath woodpiles or rubbish, and in damp areas around fields and gardens. Nests may be made with cloth, fibrous materials, or shredded paper. Norway Rats generally like to be on the ground floor when they invade structures. Norway Rats can be found in 48 states mostly at lower elevations but can occur just about anywhere people live. Norway Rats are mostly gray, stocky and large. They can weigh anywhere from 7-18 ounces and have muzzle blunted heads. Their ears do not reach their eyes when folded over and their tails are shorter than their bodies.

 

Roof Rats

There are 3 types of Roof Rats, Black Rat, Alexandrine Rat, and Fruit Rat. They are slightly smaller than Norway rats. Roof Rat tails are longer than their heads and bodies combined. Roof Rats usually nest above ground in trees, shrubs, or in thick vegetation such as ivy. Roof Rats are excellent climbers. They are mostly found in elevated areas such as attics, false ceilings, walls, and cabinets. The Roof Rat’s geography is limited because they tend to like warmer climates. The Norway rat may also be present in areas where Roof Rats occur. Roof Rats are mostly grey or white and are sleek and agile. They weigh anywhere from 5-10 ounces and have a pointed muzzle. Their tails extend at least to their snout and their ears are long enough to reach their eyes when folded over.

 

House Mice

House Mice are small rodents with small black eyes and fairly large ears. They weigh in at about a ½ ounce and are gray to light brownish in color. Adults on average are 5-7 inches long including the tail. Mouse nests, much like the Norway Rats, love fibrous materials, and shredded paper to make their nests. Nests are generally located in sheltered locations. House Mice tend to have a musky odor that identifies their presence. House Mice mostly forage at night but can sometimes be seen during the day.