For effective pest control, it is crucial to accurately identify whether you are dealing with a rat or mouse infestation. This knowledge is essential as it allows you to choose the appropriate rodent control products, such as rodent bait stations and traps. These products come in different sizes, with larger ones designed for rats and smaller ones for mice. Additionally, rodent poison can be effective for both mice and rats. By providing valuable insights into rodent identification, the following information empowers you to take essential measures for eradicating rodents from your premises.
House mice are tiny, typically measuring only about 3 inches long and weighing 1-2 ounces.
Colour:
House mice are commonly grey, although some individuals may appear darker.
Behaviour:
House mice primarily feed on cereals, grains, seeds, and sweets. However, during the autumn and winter seasons, these food items may be scarce. As a result, rodents enter homes searching for food and will consume almost anything they find. They often nest in wall voids or undisturbed materials. House mice remain near their nests, usually within 10-30 feet, and prefer to travel along walls rather than open spaces.
Size:
Norway rats can grow 13-18 inches long and weigh 10-16 ounces.
Colour:
Norway rats can vary in colour from black and grey to reddish-brown.
Distinguishing Features:
Be cautious not to mistake a young rat for a mouse. Norway rats typically nest in burrows and possess solid front teeth that allow them to gnaw through electrical wires, pipes, wood, and other materials. They have small ears, short tails, and a rounder, bulkier body shape than mice. People commonly encounter these rats in urban and rural areas, but their larger size makes them less frequently seen in homes.
Norway rats, commonly known as brown or sewer rats, can be identified by their robust, grey-brown bodies. Their tails are comparatively shorter than the length of their bodies. Among all rat species, Norway rats are the most prevalent. They create burrows in fields, gardens, understructure foundations, woodpiles, or trash. They line their nests with fibrous materials like shredded cloth and paper. Norway rats are more likely to inhabit the lower levels of buildings.
Size:
Roof rats are larger rodents, reaching lengths of 10-12 inches and weighing 6-9 ounces.
Colour:
Roof rat colouration can range from black to brown to grey.
Behaviour and Habitat
Roof rats can often access structures through power lines or trees and nest in attics, trees, or wall voids. While they prefer fruit, they are known to consume various food sources. Roof rats may travel up to 50 feet from their nest for water and food. They possess distinct characteristics, including a thin body, large and hairless ears, and a tail longer than the combined length of their head and body.
Roof, commonly known as black rats, demonstrate exceptional climbing abilities and prefer to build their nests above ground. They dwell in dense vegetation, shrubs, and trees in the wild. Within domestic environments, they seek secure, elevated locations such as cabinets, attics, sheetrock ceilings, and walls. They can enter homes through nearby trees or eaves. Compared to Norway rats, roof rats are more frequently found in warm environments influenced by the ocean.
One of the simplest ways to distinguish between rats and mice is by examining their droppings. Mouse droppings are usually about 1/4 inch long, while rat droppings can be three times larger.
Rats are among the most prevalent and problematic pests globally, contaminating food, causing structural damage, and posing human health risks. While people seldom see them, identifying signs of their presence remains relatively straightforward. They generally have a larger size than mice, and although young rats can be mistaken for mice, their disproportionately long feet allow for differentiation. Both rodents can chew through hard surfaces, including wood, and cause more damage. Rat teeth marks are usually more distinct compared to those of mice.
At Steam n Dry Auckland Pest Control, we have a team of highly skilled rodent specialists in New Zealand. Our experts have extensive training and experience in the field, ensuring they can effectively eliminate rodents from your property. We are committed to providing the best possible service and operate in compliance with the Consumers Guarantees Act 1993. Steam n Dry Auckland is a Certified Pesticide Applicator.
Contact Steam n Dry Rodent Identification and Control Auckland Services today at 0800 199 399 or email us to remove your rodent problem.
This article has been expertly researched and written by Graeme Stephens, an IICRC Master Restoration Technician, since 2001. With a wealth of experience spanning over 36 years in disinfecting, cleaning, and pest control services in Auckland
Updated Last: June/20/2023
