Rodents are a type of mammal found living throughout the world. Despite coming in a wide range of sizes, colors, and living in different habitats, rodents all have one thing in common – they have front incisors that grow continuously. To keep their teeth from overgrowing, and preventing them from being able to eat, they gnaw on almost everything.

Some of the most common rodents that can be found living in the Greater Atlanta area include:

Norway Rats
These rats have a dense body, covered in shaggy brown or gray fur, with a lighter underbelly. Norway rats have a blunt nose, small ears, and little black eyes. Their long, scaly tail is hairless and is shorter in length than their head and body.

Roof Rats
These rodents have a long, thin body covered in dark brown or black fur with gray hairs sprinkled throughout, and a lighter-colored underbelly. They have a pointed nose, large ears, and large dark-colored eyes. Their scaly, hairless tails are longer than their head and body.

Mice
Mice One of the most common species of mice invading homes and yards is the common house mouse. They are light brown to gray and have a light cream-colored underbelly. These mice have a pointed nose, large ears, and their tail has a light layer of fur which is about the same length or longer than its body.

When rodents like mice and rats find their way inside your home or business, they become dangerous for several different reasons. They chew through and destroy electrical wires, pipes, insulation, drywall, flooring, and beams; these chewing habits can trigger fires and cause water damage. Rodents damage personal property like furniture, clothing, shoes, bedding, carpets, books, and other stored items. They introduce harmful bacteria, diseases, and parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites into your home or business. Rodents also contaminate food and food preparation areas with harmful bacteria as well as their urine and feces.

Rodents find their way into yards that provide them with ample food, water, and shelter sources. Things like gardens, compost bins, open trash cans, clogged gutters, leaky outdoor faucets, and dense vegetation attract rodents. Once comfortable on your property, they may enter your home to search for new food sources, or during the winter. They also move inside during periods of extreme heat during the summer. Our temperature-controlled houses that are full of food are the perfect haven for rodents.

Where will I find rodents?

Rodents, whether inside or outdoors, nest in dark, quiet areas, away from people and close to food sources. Rodents are highly adaptable and can be found living in suburban, urban, and rural areas. Outdoors, rodents live in areas of tall grasses, trees, dense vegetation, and gardens. They also often live along riverbanks, under woodpiles, under decks or sheds, and under foundations. Inside, rodents nest in hard-to-reach areas that are close to food sources. Indoor nesting spots include above the ceiling, under the floor, behind wall voids, in attics, crawlspaces, and behind large appliances.

Get rid of rodents the easy way by partnering with an experienced, local pest control expert! At Squash-A-Bug we’re a family owned and locally operated pest control company.

Our registered and certified professionals provide highly effective pest control services that eliminate rodents and minimize their return. For home and business owners who want to learn more about our exceptional, 100% guaranteed residential or commercial pest control solutions, contact Squash-A-Bug today!

Keep disease-spreading and destructive rodents away from your home or business with the help of the following prevention tips:

• Remove overgrown vegetation and excess debris or clutter from your property.
• Remove bird feeders from your yard as this could attract rodents foraging for food.
• Pick up fallen fruits and vegetables in garden areas to avoid providing rodents with an easy meal.
• Keep outdoor eating areas free of food debris to avoid attracting rodents to your property.
• Keep tight-fitting lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins to keep from attracting rodents to your yard.
• Cut back tree branches and overgrown shrubs away from the exterior of your home to reduce harborage areas.
• Seal up openings in the foundation, exterior walls, and roofline using caulk or wood filler.
• Install caps on chimneys and tight-mesh covers over any vents leading into your home to eliminate easy entry points inside.
• Remove trash from your home, wipe down counters, and wash dishes daily.
• Pick up uneaten pet food in between feedings to reduce food sources for invading rodents.
• Keep storage areas clear of clutter that could function as hiding spots for mice and rats.
• Don’t leave food out on counters. Store food in containers with air-tight lids or the refrigerator.