8 Common Types of Rodents Invading Your Home

With over 1,500 types of rodent species, there’s a good chance you’ll come face-to-face with one of these critters at some point. While most rodents are harmless, some can carry dangerous diseases and pose a serious threat to your family’s health.

From the common squirrel to the more exotic Norway rat, learn about the different types of rodents that invade homes so you can be prepared if you ever encounter any unwelcome guests.

Rodents Found Inside Your Home

There are many types of rodents that can find their way into your home in search of food, water, and shelter. Here is a list of rodents that commonly invade homes:

House Mouse

House mice are small, grayish-brown, and typically between 2 and 7 inches long, with large ears and a long tail.

While they may seem harmless, house mice can actually be quite destructive. They are known to gnaw on wires and build nests which can make them difficult to remove. They also contaminate food and spread diseases like salmonella.

To prevent house mice from entering your space, seal up any cracks or holes in the exterior of your home and make sure all food is properly stored.

Norway Rat

Norway rats are larger than house mice, typically growing to be around 16 inches long. They are brown or gray in color, with a blunt nose and small eyes.

Norway rats are known for being particularly destructive. They will gnaw on just about anything, including wood, insulation, and wires. This can cause serious damage to your home.

In order to prevent rats from getting into your home you should remove any potential food sources, such as garbage and pet food. You should also contact a pest control professional from Fox Pest Control if you think you have a Norway rat problem as they can be difficult to get rid of on your own.

Roof Rat

Roof rats get their name from the fact that they are often found in attics and other high places. They are smaller than Norway rats, typically only growing to be about 6-8 inches long.

Like other types of rodents, roof rats can cause damage to your home by gnawing on furniture and clothing. They can also contaminate food and spread diseases like salmonella, and typhus.

They are often attracted to homes that have fruit trees or gardens, as they are attracted to the smell of ripe fruit. To prevent roof rats visiting your home, make sure to pick up any fallen fruit and keep your trees trimmed.

Cotton Rat

Cotton rats are found throughout the southern United States. They get their name from the damaging effects they have on cotton and other crops. These rats are typically gray or brown in color and have a gray or white belly.

While they don’t typically invade homes, they can be a nuisance if they find their way inside. Cotton rats will eat just about anything, so they can quickly contaminate food sources. They are also known to spread diseases like hantavirus which can be deadly.

If you think you have a cotton rat problem, the best thing to do is to contact a pest control professional at Fox PC as soon as possible.

Deer Mice

Deer mice are found throughout North America and get their name from their brown and white fur which resembles that of a deer. These small mice are typically between 3 and 4 inches long, with large ears and a long tail.

While they do not typically invade homes in urban areas, unless there are surrounding fields, deer mice can actually be quite invasive. Similar to cotton rats they are known to spread hantavirus. They are also known to contaminate food sources and build their nests in homes which makes them a nuisance.

To stop deer mice from getting into your house, make sure to clear any potential food sources and seal up any cracks or gaps in order to protect your home.

Rodents Found In Your Yard

It’s not just homes that rodents are attracted to, yards can also be a breeding ground for these pests. In most states these pests have to be taken care of by animal control and not your pest control company. Here are the different types of rodents that you might find in your yard:

Squirrels

Squirrels are part of the rodent family and one that you may find in your yard. These animals are typically between 15 and 20 inches long, with a bushy tail. They can be either gray, red, or brown in color.

While they might seem harmless, squirrels can actually cause quite a bit of damage. They are known to dig up gardens, chewing holes and even build their nests in eaves.

To prevent squirrels from being a nuisance in your yard, make sure to remove any potential food sources and keep your garbage cans sealed.

Gophers

Gophers are small rodents that burrow underground. They are often brown or black in color and have a furry tail. They can grow from 5 to 14 inches long, depending on the species.

Gophers can be a nuisance in yards as they dig holes and tunnel underground. This can damage gardens, lawns, and even foundations. They are also known to eat plants, fruits, and vegetables.

In order to prevent gophers from taking over your yard, make sure to close up any holes or tunnels and remove any food sources that might attract pests.

Chipmunks

Chipmunks are small, striped rodents that are found in North America. They are typically brown, black, or gray in color and have a light colored belly. They grow to be about 4 to 7 inches long, with a bushy tail. 

While they might seem cute, chipmunks can actually be quite a nuisance. They are known to dig holes in yards and gardens, which can damage plants. They are also attracted to bird feeders and will often steal the food.

These are just a few of the most common rodent species that you may encounter. If you have a problem with mice or rats, the best thing to do is to contact a pest control professional at Fox Pest Control. We will be able to help you get rid of them so you can enjoy your home again.