As two of the most common pest rodents, rats and mice can cause Virginia homeowners a lot of problems. They may have similar features and habits, but there are also many differences between mice and rats as well. All rodents are joined by one shared trait in particular: their incisor teeth that never stop growing. Because rodent infestations can be destructive and downright dangerous for you and your family, it’s important to know what pest you are dealing with. The team at Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s is here to share all you need to know about identifying rats and mice.
Similarities Between Rats and Mice
Rodents are most known for their shared habit of gnawing and chewing on just about anything. This is due to the fact that they have incisor teeth that grow constantly. Rats and mice alike can exhibit similar behaviors inside your property if they have infested your home. Rodents are infamous for their ability to carry and spread a number of potentially dangerous diseases. They also can trigger allergies in people. A rodent problem can be a mess to clean up due to the amount of droppings and urine left behind. Lastly, they can cause significant damage to your home. Both mice and rats will chew through insulation, cardboard, wood, and electrical wiring, which can create a fire hazard in your property.
How do Mice and Rats Differ?
We all know rats are bigger than mice, but that’s not their only difference. Some of the traits to identify rats and mice include:
- Mice
- Most mice are only 2–4 inches long.
- Mice typically have larger ears and tails compared to their body size.
- The droppings mice leave behind have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
- Mice are omnivores but mostly feed on seeds, grains, and fruits.
- They are more prolific: Mice produce 5–10 litters a year with up to 14 mice in each litter.
- Rats
- While they differ between species, rats typically have larger bodies that are about 6–9 inches .
- Rats have small, hairy ears and larger feet.
- Their droppings are much bigger than those of mice at 10–20 mm long.
- Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
- Rats are opportunistic feeders that will eat meats, grains, seeds, and much more.
Have a Rat or Mouse Infestation?
If you suspect there are rodents in your home or business, it’s important to enlist the help of a professional rodent exterminator such as Ehrlich. We can easily identify the rodent species you are dealing with before executing a plan to control the infestation. To learn more, give us a call today!