Rodent infestations are a common problem that many homeowners have to deal with. It’s important to identify and handle an infestation quickly, as rodents carry many diseases that are dangerous to your family. Watch out for these common signs so you can call a mice control professional before the problem becomes dangerous.

Common Signs You Need a Mice Control Specialist

1. Droppings

Rodents typically produce 50 to 75 droppings, or pellets, a day. When they’re fresh, they look dark and moist but will dry out as they age. Old pellets can even crumble if they’re moved. Pellets are usually found in concealed areas like cupboards or drawers, along floorboards, or near food packaging, such as an open bag of dog food. They’ll also be at a higher concentration closer to where the nest is located.

2. Strong Odors

Rodent urine has a very pungent, ammonia-like smell. Not only do rodents urinate often, but the smell lingers for a long time. If you have pets, it’s likely they will become attracted to the odor and get excited in areas where it is present. Check these areas with a flashlight for other signs of an infestation, but do so carefully. Rodents carry many diseases. Some diseases, like leptospirosis, can be transmitted to humans through contact with their urine. 

3. Gnaw Marks

Mice have front teeth that constantly grow, and if they get too big, the mouse won't be able to eat and will die. To prevent this, they need to continually gnaw to keep their front teeth at a livable size. But they also gnaw through walls, containers, and packaging to gain access to food and shelter. Look for holes in food containers as well as furniture, wires, curtains, and walls. Small gnaw marks indicate a mouse infestation, while larger marks may mean the intruders are rats.

4. Nests

Mice and other rodents use materials from your home, like paper, fabric, and insulation, to build nests. For protection, mice usually build their nests in discreet, enclosed spaces. Check behind your refrigerator, under the stove and cabinets, in drawers, and in wall voids. Often, they’re also located close to a food source, so they don’t need to venture far to find food. If you find a nest, you should contact mouse control professionals to remove it safely and make sure the problem is solved effectively.

If you suspect an infestation in your home, call the experts at Aardwolf Termite & Pest Control. This family-owned and -operated pest control company provides reliable service for residential and commercial clients in Bessemer, AL and throughout Jefferson County. Their licensed and certified exterminators not only eliminate the problem efficiently, but also treat your home to prevent pests from returning. Call them today at (205) 338-6615 or reach out to them through their website.