Known for destroying property and spreading diseases, the presence of mice and rats can be a major issue. Rodents are destructive pests capable of contaminating food and surfaces, and destroying equipment and physical structures.ย
If a trap is newly introduced into a ratโs environment, theyโll change their movement patterns, making it more difficult to capture them. Mice can climb, run, jump, and squeeze through a hole the size of a dime. This combined intelligence and dexterity makes controlling rodents a challenge. But not for us at Florida Pest Control!
Where You Might See Rodents in Florida
Rodents prefer quiet, undisturbed areas, such as closets, storage areas, and wall voids. They pick natural trails to follow, such as girders, heating and electrical lines, and utility runs. Youโll likely run into the house mouse, deer mouse, roof rat, or Norway rat.
- Roof rats are excellent climbers, and can be found in upper levels of buildings, ceilings, trees, vegetation, or on rooftops. Theyโre dark gray to black and 13-18 inches long (from nose to tip of tail).
- Norway rats like to burrow and prefer lower levels and areas that are typically unoccupied. Theyโre brownish-black and 13-18 inches long (from nose to tip of tail).
- House mice are light brown to dark gray in color with a lighter underbelly, measuring five to eight inches long (from nose to tail).
- Deer mice have a tan upper body with a white underbelly, and are two to four inches long (from nose to tail).
Make note of any sightings or signs, such as droppings, nesting materials, or gnaw marks. This will alert your rodent control pro at Florida Pest Control of potential hotspots.
15 Tips for Rodent Prevention
- Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
- Use rodent-proof materials such as hardware cloth, aluminum flashing, aluminum screening, or concrete to seal all exterior holes and openings.ย
- Place ยผ inch wire mesh screens over all exterior ventilation openings.
- Inspect roof areas and seal any gaps or openings around vents and HVAC units.
- Clean food serving, prep, and storage areas regularly.
- Store firewood and unused equipment away from the building.
- Remove clutter, such as old boxes and equipment.
- Keep dumpsters and garbage bins tightly covered and away from the building.
- Clean up spills immediately and keep food sealed.
- Work with landscapers to select plants and trees that donโt attract these pests.
- Keep landscaping well-trimmed, and avoid having it touch the building.
- Do not overwater mulched areas around a structure.
- Make sure that plumbing p-traps are filled with water to ensure they are sealed.
- Use sodium vapor bulbs or LED lights of greater than 550 nm.
- Reduce humidity by using a dehumidifier.
Your Florida Rodent Exterminators
Without rodent prevention or control, you may have to deal with disease and destruction caused by rodents. Professional rodent control gets rodents out of your space, and prevents future infestations. This is where Florida Pest Control steps in. Our rat and mice extermination team has the tools and expertise to get rid of these pests in your Florida home or business. Contact us today for a free quote!
To read more helpful rodent prevention tips, download the PDF below:
Back to Rodent Exterminators – Rat & Mice Exterminators