7 Signs You Have a Mouse or Rat in Your Home

No one wants to have a mouse or rat in their home, but unfortunately, sometimes they will get into our homes. At Bay Area Wildlife, we’ve been helping homeowners with this issue for years and wanted to talk today about seven signs you have a mouse or rat in your home.

1. Mysterious Noises in the Walls

Ever heard strange scratching or scurrying sounds echoing through your home, especially at night? If so, you might have some rodent roommates. Mice and rats are notorious for their nocturnal adventures, so don’t be surprised if they turn your walls into their own personal playground.

2. Droppings Around the House

Finding small, pellet-like droppings in hidden corners or along baseboards is a dead giveaway. These little presents are a sure sign that rodents have taken up residence in your humble abode. Keep an eye out for these unsightly surprises, especially in areas where food is stored or discarded.

3. Gnaw Marks on Furniture and Wiring

Got some suspicious chew marks on your wooden furniture or gnawed wires around the house? Yep, you guessed it – rodents love to nibble on anything they can sink their teeth into. From furniture legs to electrical wiring, nothing is safe from their relentless gnawing.

4. Unpleasant Odors Lingering Around

Notice any funky odors lingering in your home, even after a thorough cleaning? Unfortunately, rodents tend to leave behind a distinct musky smell that can quickly permeate your living space. If you catch a whiff of something foul, it might be time to investigate further.

5. Nesting Materials in Dark Spaces

Rodents are crafty little builders, and they’ll stop at nothing to create cozy nests for themselves and their offspring. Look out for shredded paper, fabric scraps, or even insulation materials in dark, secluded areas like attics, basements, or crawl spaces.

6. Grease Marks Along Walls and Baseboards

As mice and rats scurry around your home, they leave behind greasy residue from their fur along walls and baseboards. These dark, smudgy marks are a surefire sign of their presence and can help you track their movements throughout your home.

7. Pet Behavior Changes

Last but not least, pay attention to any unusual behavior from your furry companions. Dogs and cats are often the first to detect the presence of rodents, whether it’s through heightened alertness, excessive scratching at walls, or even attempts to catch the intruders themselves.

Work With an Experienced Animal Removal Company

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to keeping mice and rats out of your home. Seal up any potential entry points, keep food stored in airtight containers, and maintain a clean and clutter-free living environment.

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs in your home, it’s time to take action. Don’t let those pesky rodents wreak havoc on your peace of mind and property. Contact a professional wildlife removal service like us at Bay Area Wildlife to safely and effectively evict these unwanted guests from your humble abode.