"Identifying Rodent Pests: Distinguishing Rats from Mice"
Distinguishing between a rat and a mouse infestation is crucial for effective pest control. Mice are smaller with lighter coloring, large ears, and longer tails relative to their bodies, while rats are larger, darker, and have bulkier shapes. Mice reproduce more rapidly and are easier to trap, whereas rats are cautious and prefer to nest in lower or higher elevations like basements or attics. Rodent droppings, nesting sites, sounds, and gnaw marks can also help identify the type of rodent present, which is important since both can carry diseases and cause significant damage to homes.