Invading rodents are common peststhat homeowners have to deal with. This is because rodents have become dependent on people for basic necessities. Common species found in North Texas include deer mice, house mice, roof, and Norway rats. The following are traits you can identify each species with:
- House mice are between 5 to 7 inches long, tail included; they have grayish-brown to blackish fur, large round ears, and a pointed nose.
- Deer mice are between 6-7 inches long, tail included, white underside, multicolored tail.
- Roof rats are large, between 12-16 inches, tail included, are dark brown or black, have a pointed nose, large ears, and large eyes.
- Norway rats as 14-17 inches, including the tail, which is two colors, have shabby brown fur, a blunt nose, small eyes, and small ears.
While you may have to deal with both mice and rats, you will most likely have one or the other, but rarely both. While mice and rats can each come with specific challenges, rodents, in general, are not welcome in any home as they are dangerous and destructive. As a North Texas resident, you should know more about this pest and what you can do to combat them.
How Are Rodents Dangerous In North Texas?
Rodents are dangerous for multiple reasons, all of which are cause for concern and should not be taken lightly. Below is a list of the five main reasons rodents are dangerous in North Texas:
- Because rodent's teeth never stop growing, they have to chew to keep them from overgrowing. If they get inside a home, rodents will chew on anything from the home's structure to personal belongings. This damage can be extensive and even cause fire hazards and flooding.
- Rodents live in places such as sewers, dumpsters, and landfills, where they pick up bacteria that they can spread onto surfaces and contaminate food, which can make people extremely sick.
- Rodents can also pick up pathogens that cause leptospirosis, tularemia, salmonella, and hantavirus.
- Rodents are also known to carry and spread parasites like fleas and ticks, which can cause their own problems to your health and home.
- One of the biggest problems with a rodent infestation is the feces and urine they leave behind. This can also contaminate food and cause allergies.
Why Can't I Get Rid Of Rodents In North Texas?
Rodents are difficult to get rid of and keep out due to their prolific nature and ability to slip through the tiniest of holes. And by tiny, we mean pocket change size. Mice can squeeze through a dime-sized hole and rodents a penny.
While there are many store-bought traps you can buy and use when faced with a rodent infestation, they will only reduce numbers and not eliminate the entire infestation. Not to mention these traps can be dangerous if misused.
When it comes to rodents, the exclusion is best left to trained professionals that understand all of the factors that make getting rid of a rodent infestation so tricky.
Who Can Help Me With Rodents In North Texas?
For total rodent control, contact the professionals at Shoop's Texas Termite & Pest Control. We utilize kid and pet-friendly control methods when treating a home for rodents, effectively getting rid of an infestation and keeping it that way.
With Shoop's Texas Termite & Pest Control, you can rest assured that your North Texas home is protected against rodents and other pests that threaten your home.