Coming across rodent droppings and not knowing where they came from quickly turns into a stressful situation. The most common suspects are mice or rats, but what is the difference? Although these two rodents have similar habits there are a few differences that can be used to determine the source of the poop. At Clegg’s Pest Control, we are dedicated to removing unwanted pests, including rodents such as mice and rats. We have offered rodent control services for over 50 years. If you have discovered mouse poop or rat poop in your home give us a call and schedule a complimentary initial inspection today.
Continue reading below to learn more about the difference between rat poop and mouse poop.
What does rat poop look like
Rats leave different droppings than mice, but both tend to produce droppings in the same areas. If you discover feces along the baseboard, in the garage or basement of your home, chances are you might have a rat or mouse. Rats measure up to 18 inches, including the tail. Unlike mice, rats’ tails are entirely hairless and scaly. A rat’s droppings are ¾ inches long and have more of a blunt end than a mouse’s. If you have dealt with mouse droppings before and you notice these droppings are significantly bigger, chances are you are dealing with a rat.
What does mouse poop look like
Mice generally have much smaller dropping at 1/4 inch long with a more pointed end than a rat dropping. Both mice and rats can create a nest behind walls or in your attic, so it is essential to indicate what critter is intruding your home. Unlike rats who tend to burrow, mice build their nest near food sources. If you discover droppings under your sink and near or in your pantry, chances are you have a mouse infestation. If you spot the critter, remember, mice have shorter and hairier tail than rats.
Rat poop vs. mouse poop
Knowing the eating habits of both mice and rats can help you identify the rodent faster and catch it. Rats feed on whatever they can find and are known to eat mice. This eating habit means that if you discover a rodent living in your home, you have a rat or mouse problem, but not both a rat and mouse problem. It is best to use canned fish, pet food or peanut butter when catching a rat. Mice prefer a carbohydrate diet and are known to get in bags of floor or munch on bread. If you notice rodent-like nibbles on a bagel in your pantry, you have a mouse on your hands. The two rodents also differ in color. Mice tend to be more brownish-gray, where rats are a darker black grey.
Clegg’s pest control rodent control
Knowing the difference between mice and rats helps you get one step closer to catching it. It is better to get these critters out of the home before they cause damage and reproduce. Don’t worry if you don’t know if the pest in your home is a mouse or rat. At Clegg’s Pest Control, we catch both critters, and we also assess the area to locate the mouse or rat’s nest. Our team of dedicated exterminators will not rest until the rodent is removed from the home. Give us a call or fill out the online contact form below to take the first step toward eliminating your rodent problem.
