Tri-County Pest Control Q&A: Rodents

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Hi folks and thanks for taking the time to read this week’s edition of a “Tri-County Pest Q&A”. Today, we’ll be exploring the characteristics of rodents.

What are the most distinguishing characteristics of rodents? Rodents are known to be characterized by a single pair of continuously growing incisors in each of the upper and lower jaws. Would you believe that nearly half of all mammals are rodents?

Where can rodents be found? They can be found anywhere in the world except for Antarctica. Though some species are pests for humans, rodents actually play an important role in the ecosystem. For instance, across the states known as the Great Plains region, the burrowing activities of prairie dogs play important roles in soil aeration and nutrient redistribution, raising the organic content of the soil and increasing the absorption of water.

What do rodents eat? Most rodents are herbivores, eating plant material such as seeds, stems, leaves, flowers and roots.

How come I can’t keep them out of my home or office this time of the year? Rodents can be difficult to keep out of structures. Mice can squeeze through spaces as small as a dime and rats can fit through holes the size of a quarter.

When are rodents more prevalent? Rodents are commonly thought of as pests that are only a priority in the fall and winter. However, rodent control is a year-round concern. While rodents, particularly mice and rats, move inside when the temperature plummets, they will be attracted to any potential food sources all year long. At Tri-County, we attack the rodent problem from all angles, including trapping, baiting, monitoring, and mechanical exclusion.

Do rodents present health concerns? Rodents, particularly rats and mice, have been a pest problem for humans since antiquity. In fact, one could make the argument that rodents indirectly caused the worst pandemic in human history, resulting in the deaths of 30-60% of the population in Europe. Rodents are notorious as disease vectors, and are known to carry 60 or more diseases. If you have a rodent problem, don’t risk yours and your family’s health, call us immediately!

 

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