How can I tell if mice or rats have infested the house? - briefly
Look for small, dark droppings near food sources, gnawed wires or insulation, and fresh nests made of shredded material; also listen for scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night, and check for visible pathways such as holes or gnaw marks along walls and baseboards. These indicators together confirm a rodent presence in the home.
How can I tell if mice or rats have infested the house? - in detail
Mice and rats leave distinct signs that reveal their presence. Look for the following evidence:
- Droppings: Small, dark pellets about ¼‑inch long indicate mice; larger, rod‑shaped droppings up to ½‑inch suggest rats. Fresh droppings are shiny; older ones become dry and crumbly.
- Gnaw marks: Fresh teeth impressions appear as clean, shallow cuts on wood, plastic, or wiring. Mice create fine, paired scratches; rats produce deeper, more irregular bites.
- Nesting material: Gathered shreds of paper, fabric, insulation, or dried plant matter are typical. Mice construct compact nests in wall voids or under appliances; rats build larger, messier piles near food sources.
- Noises: Scratching or scurrying sounds in ceilings, attic, or behind walls, especially at night, point to activity. Rats generate louder, thudding noises; mice emit softer, rapid rustling.
- Tracks: Dusty areas, floorboards, or stored food may show footprints. Mice leave small, dainty prints with five toes; rat tracks are larger with visible pads.
- Urine stains: Dark spots on surfaces, especially near food, signal urine. Rats leave larger, more spread‑out stains; mice produce tiny, concentrated spots.
- Damage to food packaging: Torn bags, chewed seals, and gnawed containers are common near pantry shelves and pantry corners.
Inspect likely entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation cracks. Look for fresh gnawing or shredded material around these openings. Identifying the species helps choose appropriate control measures, as rats require larger traps and more robust exclusion methods than mice.