Spotting the Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Is your home being overrun by mice or rats? It may be hard to tell, but there are a number of clear signs that you are in need of rodent control services near Crystal Lake. Check out this list of common characteristics of a mouse infestation in your home, and call your local exterminator if these symptoms sound familiar.

Mouse Droppings

Mice leave droppings virtually everywhere they go, which is why mouse droppings are the first telltale sign of a rodent infestation in your home. Droppings can be commonly found in places where mice nest or eat, so looking in your pantry, kitchen counters, and anywhere food prep might happen. You should also inspect along walls and baseboards.

Urine Trails

Mice and rats also pee very frequently, so you may find evidence of rodent urine if your home is infested. Sometimes you’ll find small pools of urine, but other times you may just see trails of dried urine from the day before. You might also find what mice exterminators call “urinating pillars,” which are piles of dirt and urine left behind by filthy rodents.

Damaged Food Packaging

If you suspect a mouse infestation, check your pantry to see if any food items show signs of gnawing. Holes chew marks, or droppings within packaging clearly indicate that rodents have made their way into your food supply. Call your exterminator right away, then dispose of all foods that may have come into contact with the mice.

A Musky Smell

Mice and rats have a unique, musky smell that comes from body odor and dirt. If you notice a strange smell in your home that you don’t recognize, start looking for some of the other signs of a potential mouse infestation.

Grease Stains

You might not be surprised to hear this, but rodents are very dirty animals. They also tend to rub against walls and squeeze through cracks as they move. This causes them to leave behind dirt and grease stains throughout your home. If you see any strange stains in tight places, you’re likely in need of a mouse exterminator.