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Each winter in the United States, 21 million homes are infested by rodents. Mice, rats, and even squirrels commonly invade Worcester homes and businesses. Rodents aren’t just a nuisance; they are also dangerous and destructive.

Rodents have lived among humans throughout history, relying on us for water, food, and shelter. They can easily gain access to structures through small holes and gaps—rats only need openings the size of a quarter, while mice can squeeze through holes as small as a dime. Once inside, they quickly breed and multiply, which makes controlling them a challenge for property owners.

In this post, we’ll investigate which rodents pose the biggest threats to Worcester homes and businesses, the dangers they present, and how to prevent and control them.

The Most Common Rodents In Worcester

House Mice

House mice are the most prevalent of the commensal rodents. They are usually gray with cream-colored undersides, with pointed muzzles and large ears. Their bodies are between 2½ - 3¾ inches long, and their tails are generally 2¾ to 4 inches in length. House mice breed rapidly. A female can produce six babies every three weeks and up to 35 offspring per year.

Norway Rats

Norway rats, also known as street rats or sewer rats, arrived in the United States in the 1700s on ships from Europe. They are 7-9½ inches long, with blunt muzzles and small eyes and ears. They are typically brown with some black hairs interspersed, with gray or white bellies. Norway rats are notorious for their ability to chew through just about anything, leading to severe property damage.

Roof Rats

Roof rats, also known as black rats or ship rats, are often found living in the attics or rafters of buildings. Their bodies are about 6-8 inches in length, and they have long, scaly tails. They are brown with some black and have gray, white, or black undersides. Like other rodents, roof rats damage property and are vectors for disease.

Squirrels

While less likely to enter homes and businesses than rats or mice, squirrels will sometimes come indoors seeking food or shelter. Squirrels are typically gray with some white and brown and are known for their bushy tails and climbing abilities. They are not known to spread disease, but they can inflict both interior and exterior property damage.

The Dangers Of Rodents In Worcester

Rodents are a serious threat to homes and businesses in Worcester. Not only do they cause property damage through their incessant gnawing of materials, but mice and rats are also carriers of numerous diseases.

Both Norway and roof rats are known for spreading typhus, jaundice, rat-bite fever, trichinosis, and salmonellosis. House mice are transmitters of leptospirosis, tularemia, salmonellosis, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM.) Both rats and mice also contaminate food and cooking surfaces. Rodents may also trigger allergic reactions and bring other pests onto your property, such as fleas and ticks.

The Secret To Effective Rodent Control In Worcester

Rodent control is a complex undertaking for Worcester property owners. Rodent populations can quickly explode, making complete eradication a challenge. For the safest, most effective rodent control in Worcester, contact the professionals at Big Blue Bug Solutions.

Big Blue Bug Solutions has provided Worcester, MA property owners with exceptional rodent control for more than 80 years. We are an award-winning company and are famous throughout New England for our Big Blue Bug landmark and outstanding service. For rodent control you can count on, contact Big Blue Bug Solutions today.

How To Prevent Future Rodent Infestations

Even after professional rodent control, it is important to maintain a clean, organized, and secure property to prevent future infestations. We’ve put together some best practices to help keep your home or business rodent-free.

Check out our rodent prevention tips for Worcester property owners:

  • Seal any cracks, holes, or gaps on the exterior of the building.

  • Clean up piles of debris in your yard.

  • Store firewood away from your home.

  • Store food in sealed containers.

  • Keep trash secured in cans with lids and dispose of it regularly.

  • Declutter your home or business, especially attics, basements, and storage areas.

  • Fix any moisture issues on your property, such as leaking pipes or clogged drains.

  • Be aware of signs of rodents, including gnaw marks, strange noises in the walls, rub marks from rats’ greasy fur, etc.

  • Seek recurring professional guidance from Big Blue Bug Solutions.

Following these best practices for rodent control can drastically reduce your chances of an infestation. However, be sure to call Big Blue Bug Solutions if you suspect rodents on your property.

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