Rodents are the largest group of mammals on the planet. The one characteristic that rodents share that separates them from other pests is that they have a pair of razor sharp incisors on each jaw. These incisors are always growing so they are sharp and can be used to gnaw. To stay sharp, the incisors on the bottom wear away the soft dentin of the upper incisors. Rodents also have:
• Large molars
• Small bodies
• Short limbs
• Long, strong nails
• Regenerating tails
Rodents also have a very effective metabolism and advanced sense of smell, vision and hearing. There are some exceptions within the rodent group. For example, beavers have large bodies, some rodents live above ground while others live below and some live between water and land.
Common Types of Rodents
1. Rat. Rats have been pests for hundreds of years. They are well-known carriers of disease like rabies and typhus but are also very clean animals that are affectionate and playful. They will spend hours a day grooming themselves and others. Many Americans keep rats as pets as they are a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative to cats and dogs.
2. Mouse. Mice don’t get as bad of a rap as rats do but have many of the same characteristics. They have the same body shape as rats but on a smaller scale. They also have whiskers and a tail that are easy to see. Mice will come into our homes more often than rats.
3. Nutria. These rodents are larger and better known as river rats. They look like rats with soft fur and webbed toes for swimming. They destroy land, crops and homes with their burrowing habits.
4. Guinea pig. Many people love guinea pigs for their large eyes and delicate features. They are also burrowers, but not nearly as destructive. They only get to about 2 pounds as adults and make great pets.
5. Squirrel. Squirrels have that characteristic bushy tail with nails that are short and strong. They like to live in trees where they can find their main food source.
Rare Rodent Animals
• Beaver
• Capybara
• Porcupine
• Chinchilla
• Woodchuck
• Spring hare
• Prairie dog
• Naked mole rat
How to Prevent a Rodent Infestation
As charming as some rodents can be, they can become pests. The best way to be free of rodents that become pests is to keep them away. Indoors, keep areas where food is clean, don’t leave food on countertops, store dry food in sealed containers and keep your home free of clutter. Outdoors, keep landscaping properly maintained by trimming vegetation that has overgrown and keep the area under shrubbery visible. Keep a clutter-free yard with wood at least 18 inches off the ground and store firewood away from the house.
Rat & Mice Rodent Pest Inspections, Control & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
Many Americans will put raccoons and river otters in the same category as rodents, but they aren’t. The best way to control rodents is to hire professionals that can distinguish between them and other mammals for effective pest control. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control has highly trained professionals that can handle any rodent control needs. Give us a call today!
