Diagnose Your Problem

Where to Start

To begin eliminating your rodent problems, start with a good inspection. Inspecting your home, shed or barn is important for determining which type of rodents are present: rats or mice. A good inspection provides three main valuable pieces of information:

Type of Infestation
Extent of Infestation
Location for Control Effort

Nests & Burrows

To verify an active burrow, wads of paper can be stuffed into the opening or the burrow can be caved in with dirt and rechecked a day or two later.

Mouse

Mice do not typically burrow, instead they create indoor nests of shredded paper, string, and other similar materials. Nests are commonly located in secluded corners, beneath cabinets, at the base of kitchen appliances, and in cluttered garages.

Norway Rat

Norway rat burrows are typically in the ground outside and usually measure about 3 inches in diameter. It is common to find burrows along foundations and underneath debris, low-lying shrubbery, woodpiles, and storage sheds.

Roof Rat

Roof rats typically nest above ground in palm trees, fruit trees, attics, ceiling voids, and along utility lines connected to the exterior of homes.