Rodent Identification & Prevention
What are rodents?
Mice and rats are the most common rodents to make themselves at home inside our Texas homes. Both are considered commensal rodents, which means they want to live with us and take advantage of the food and shelter we offer. They want to "share our table."
While both rats and mice are common invaders of our properties, they are two different species, and luckily for us, it is one or the other that find their way into our homes, not both at the same time!
The biggest difference between mice and rats is their size. Adult mice are smaller in size than adult rats. Mice have long, slender tails covered in a light layer of fur, while rats have thicker hairless tails.
Are rodents dangerous?
When mice and rats are living near people, they cause significant health risks. They spread pathogens and bacteria to humans through direct contact with the rodents (alive or deceased) or their feces, urine, or saliva.
Another danger to remember when it comes to rodents is that they are wild animals, and if they ever feel cornered or threatened, they will defend themselves by biting.
Rodents are also problematic in our homes because of the damage they cause while gathering nesting materials, food, or creating entry and exit points. They chew through and damage:
- Wires, drywall, and wood trim
- Furniture, clothing, fabrics, papers, and other personal items
- Screens, window, and door frames
- Food containers and packages
- Pet food bags
Why do I have a rodent problem?
Rodents are a problem wherever people live. They have learned that our yards and structures offer them the things they need to survive. Our homes provide them with secluded shelter away from harsh weather and predators. Our kitchens, trash cans, and eating areas provide them with access to food, and our yards and homes provide them with regular water sources from things like birdbaths, clogged gutters, leaky spigots, or dripping pipes.
Mice and rats are adaptable creatures that thrive in urban and rural areas and threaten Texas homes and businesses throughout the year. Whenever necessary, they will seek refuge with people.
Why Choose EnviroGuard Pest Control?
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With decades of combined experience in pest control, we have a solution for whatever is bugging you!
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Your family and pet's health and safety are always top of mind which is why we use only the best methods and products.
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Our offices are locally owned which means we have a deep understanding of the local pests to each area and the best solution for them.
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Every home is different. We create a tailored solution for your individual case that works for your budget.
Where Will I Find Rodents?
Rodents are shy, reclusive creatures and when in our homes, do their best to live away from people. When these critters nest in your house, they are usually discovered behind walls voids, inside pieces of furniture, behind cabinets and appliances, in attics or basements, and under floors.
Knowing some of the basic signs of an infestation can be helpful so you can identify the presence of these intruders before they take over your entire home or cause significant damage. You can probably assume you have rodents if you:
- Find dark, rice-like droppings in drawers, dirty laundry, along walls or cabinets of your home.
- Notice that pets are acting suspicious, staring or sniffing at walls, or barking at seemingly nothing.
- Hear scratching or running behind walls or above the ceiling at night when your home is quiet.
- Find gnaw marks on floors, wood trim, or furniture.
- Notice a musty odor in certain areas of your home.
- Find holes in food packaging.
How do I get rid of rodents?
It is difficult to prevent rodents from finding their way onto your Texas property or into your home to nest or forage for food. Rodents want to live with us, and keeping them at bay is best done with the help of a professional. To remove rodents from your home and make your property less attractive to these unwanted intruders, reach out to EnviroGuard Pest Control for rodent control services in Austin, TX.
Our professionals know the different species of rodents that are common to our area, where they like to nest, and how to remove them. We pay attention to detail and offer affordable services to keep your family safe and your home free of rodents.
Give us a call today to get your free quote and be one step closer to eliminating rodents from your Austin or San Antonio area property!
How Can I Prevent Rodents in the Future?
Prevent issues with rodents using our most helpful rodent prevention tips:
- Always keep lids on trash cans and compost bins to keep rodents out of them.
Store pet food in containers with locking lids and pick up uneaten pet food each evening. - Maintain your lawn to help reduce areas on your property where rodents can hang out without being noticed.
- Keep rodents out of your home by inspecting its exterior walls and sealing any openings you find.
- Seal openings leading into your house by placing appropriate mesh covers over chimnys, drains, and vents leading into your home.
- Install door sweeps under all exterior doors.
- Seek professional rodent control services for your home to eliminate any problem infestations from your property.
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They always answer my questions and after they are done, ask if there is anything else or if I forgot something else they could help me with! I recommend 100%! They're so respectful of my house and surroundings!
- Maria V. -
The service is wonderful, technicians are always ready to answer any questions or concerns. We have pets and the fact this treatment isn’t as harmful to pets is amazing. Highly recommend them to anyone who’s more environmentally conscious!
- Atzen F. -
- Isaiah M.
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My technician Jeff is always very thorough and professional, as well as knowledgeable. Ever since I started service with EnviroGaurd seven months ago, I have had no more problems with ants, spiders, or earwigs coming into my home.
- Jason S.