Rodents
Rodents - rats and mice, are a common problem across homes in Perth, particularly in urban areas. Rats and Mice can pose serious health risks, can cause structural damage through their nesting and gnawing. as well as contaminating food sources. Rodents in roof cavities often damage electrical wiring which can lead to roof fires.
The 3 most commonly encountered rodents around Perth homes and buildings are The Roof Rat, The Norway Rat & the House Mouse.
Mice often frequent around kitchens, as well as living in wall voids, under exterior decking, in sheds. Sometimes the young mice can be fairly cheeky and peak out at home owners without much worry. Mice normally get to around 20 grams, much smaller than either of the two rats.
The Roof Rat is an excellent climber, and enjoys being in high places. One of the most common areas is, as their names suggests, in the roof space. Often not seen but heard as they run through the roof void. Adults typically weigh around 200 grams ( 10 x heavier than a house mouse)
The Norway Rat is the largest of the 3, getting up to 450 grams. Though they are more prone to nesting outdoors, they will often head indoors and nest in wall and roof voids when temperatures outside are cold. This rat burrows and swims well.
RODENT PREVENTION TIPS
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Reduce the food available to them
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Block any obvious entry points to the home
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Trim any shrubs, vines or trees away from the homes roof
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Collect un-eaten pet food promptly, the left-overs make great rodent food
RAT AND MOUSE TREATMENTS
It may be tempting to try and DIY Rat and Mouse control. The problem is this normally involves the home owner buying a store bought bait without understanding the active ingredient. Some baits contain very strong anti coagulants which can cause secondary poisoning issues, for example when an owl eats a baited rat, it too may be killed. This is why it is critical to know and understand the best product for the job.
In order to control and treat rat and mice problems, we need to identify the species so we can understand the associated habits. This helps us decide the most effective treatment methods. Joondalup Pest Control will assess the situation and may be able to advise how to help assist the prevention or rats and mice returning. If you need Rat Control or Mouse control, or advice on their treatments please feel free to contact us. All of our Rat and Mice treatments come with a written warranty.