Rodent

(Rat / Mouse - Rattus rattus, Rattus norvegicus, Mus musculus)

Commensal Pest

Meet the Rodent

Rodents are among the most destructive pests... constantly gnawing on materials including wood, plastic, wires... causing property damage and fire hazards... Common types include Roof Rats, Norway Rats, and House Mice...

Rodent

Habitat and Behavior

Highly adaptive, living in sewers, warehouses, kitchens... Roof Rats climb, Norway Rats burrow, House Mice explore small spaces... Exceptional sense of smell, taste, hearing; can squeeze through tiny gaps...

Rodent Lifecycle

Life Cycle

Rodents reproduce rapidly year-round. Gestation is about 21 days. Females have 6-12 pups per litter, up to 7 litters a year. Young mature in 8-12 weeks. Lifespan is 9-12 months.

Signs of Infestation

Look for: Droppings (dark pellets), Gnaw Marks on wires, wood, packaging, Scratching Noises in walls/ceilings, Footprints & Smear Marks along walls, Burrows & Nests, Foul Odor (ammonia-like).

Signs of Rodent Infestation

Health Risks

  • Leptospirosis: Spread via urine-contaminated water.
  • Salmonellosis: Food contamination causing food poisoning.
  • Plague: Carried by fleas from infected rats.
  • Fire Hazards: Gnawing on electrical wires.
  • Economic Losses: Destruction of goods and infrastructure.

Prevention Tips

  • Maintain Cleanliness: Keep food areas clean and dry.
  • Seal Ingress Points: Block holes, gaps, drains.
  • Store Food Securely: Use airtight containers.
  • Dispose Garbage Daily: Use bins with tight lids.
  • Declutter: Remove nesting materials like cardboard.
  • Fix Leaks: Eliminate water sources.
  • Trim Vegetation: Keep plants away from walls/roofs.