Mice and Rat Extermination | Angie’s List

There are several indicators of mouse and rat infestation. The presence of rodent droppings, small, dark pellets, is one of the first things a homeowner will notice. The droppings will not usually be found in piles, but scattered along the trail as the rodent explores. A few prime places to look for rodent droppings include underneath sinks, around the perimeter of a room and in cabinets.

Mouse and rodent nests are also good indicators. These nests are made of finely shredded paper or other fibrous material and located in sheltered areas.

Of course, gnaw marks and holes, especially in cardboard containers, are another prime sign. Thats why it is a good idea to keep cereal, grains and other foods in plastic or metal containers. Rodents tend to cache their food supply, so look for small pockets of food in sheltered locations as well.

If rodents have invaded the home, it is vital to control and eliminate them. Trapping is still one of the best and safest means of rodent control. Trapping the invader does not require the use of dangerous chemicals and pesticide agents; therefore, it is safer to do around small children and pets. Furthermore, trapping will allow for easy disposal of the rodent (whether dead or alive), thereby eliminating the odors that occur from dead animals in walls or other inaccessible areas when poisons are used.

Using the proper number of traps and placing them correctly is important for this method to be effective. Snap traps should be placed along walls and under or inside cabinets to capitalize on the rodents runway. They usually scurry along the edges of walls, stairs and other corners, so placing the trap with the trigger closest to the wall is most effective.

If you'd rather not kill the mouse, there are various live traps available in which the animal is lured by bait into a cage or box through a one-way door, trapping it inside. If you release it outside, be sure to do so a considerable distance from your house or anyone else's. Otherwise, it's likely to come back. Sticky paper traps, similar to flypaper, trap the rodent as it walks across its surface. These are generally used when the mouse is to be killed, but it's also possible to release them by applying cooking oil to the glue.

Of course, poisons can also be used; however, extreme care must be used when handling poisons and steps must be taken to ensure the safety of children and pets. Many poisons can only be handled by licensed exterminators because of their danger.

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Mice and Rat Extermination | Angie's List