How Do Rats Differ From Mice?
Many people think the differences between mice and rats are obvious, but some of them are more subtle than you think. Of course, they’re both rodents and can do a lot of damage if they get into your house, but if you have them in your home, would you be able to tell which one you have? It makes a big difference in how you treat them depending on which one you have in your house.
Learn More: Rats VS Mice FAQ
Appearance Of Rats And Mice
The primary distinction between these two rodent species is their size. A mouse is typically smaller in size and weight, whereas a rat generally is heavier and longer. In comparison, a rat’s tail will be longer and thicker. The ears of a mouse are larger than the ears of a rat, despite their small size. If you have mice in your home, you’ll notice a lot more droppings than rats because mice produce a lot more in a day.
Preferred Habitats Of Rodent Species
In temperate locations, black rats are primarily found in buildings near ports and on ships (commonly known as “ship rats”). They are quick and good climbers, and they build their nests high up on roofs. Black rats tend to nest in trees, especially in woodland and orchards, in warmer countries where they originated. The ship rat prefers to walk on his toes, and the surfaces he travels on have separated smudges.
Mice prefer to live on ground level and build their nests in burrows, but they can climb quickly. Mice are commonly found within the walls and floorboards of human homes. Combined with dirt and urine, grease from the body can form small pillars in heavy mice infestations. Because these can last for a long time, they may not be indicative of an active infestation.
Are Mice Or Rats More Destructive?
Which is worse to have in your home now that you know a bit about rats and mice? They both have distinct appearances, making it simple to determine whether you have a rat or a mouse problem. Both rodent species are destructive and should be removed from your home right away. Mice are a more complex problem to handle because their small size allows them to fit into more nooks and crannies.
Mice are much smaller than rats, so they can get into more areas of your home and move around quite easily. Mice can fit through a dime-sized opening, while rats can fit through a quarter-sized opening.
Rodent-borne diseases are carried and spread by both rats and mice. Human allergies and asthma are known to be triggered by both species. They can both contaminate homes with their feces and urine, as well as bring in disease-carrying fleas and ticks. Rodents can wreak havoc on homes by gnawing through insulation, cardboard, wood, and even electrical wiring, posing a serious fire risk.
How To Prevent Rats And Mice From Entering Your Home?
The majority of houses are not designed to keep mice out. Where the foundation meets the siding, utility lines, conduit, pipe penetrations, weep holes, and even under the front door are all common entry points for mice. Nuisance wildlife removal experts can identify these weak points and install protective materials that will prevent rodent entry.
Give Animals Happen a call if you have any questions or concerns regarding rodent proofing. Our pre-screen wildlife professionals can come out and conduct a property assessment that will identify possible weak points. The wild animal technicians are also trained to perform repairs such as rodent proofing vents, screens, chimneys, and crawlspaces.