Rodents
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What are rodents?
Rodents are one of the most common types of mammal and can be found living on all continents, except for Antarctica. These pests all have one thing in common: a pair of large front incisors that are continuously growing. Rodents must constantly chew on any objects they come across in order to prevent these large, powerful teeth from overgrowing, which makes them destructive pests. Chipmunks, mice, rats, squirrels, and voles are all examples of rodents.
The most common species of rodents living throughout our area of Colorado are listed below:
House mice are light brown to gray with cream-colored underbellies. They have large ears, pointed noses, and tails covered in a light layer of fur; their tails are about the same length or longer than their bodies.
Norway rats have dense, heavy bodies that are covered in shaggy brown or gray colored fur with lighter underbellies. They have blunt noses, round ears, and small, black eyes. Norway rats are known for being good swimmers but aren't quite as agile as roof rats.
Roof rats are thin and light and are known for being extremely agile. These rats have dark brown or black fur with gray hairs sprinkled throughout and have lighter colored underbellies. They also have large ears, pointed noses, and large, darkcolored eyes.
Are rodents dangerous?
Rodents become more than just a nuisance pest when they end up inside and should never be allowed to live in or around your Colorado property. These pests cause structural damage to your property, contaminate food, and spread a variety of bacteria, diseases, and parasites. Their chewing habits can also lead to water damage and electrical fires.
Why do I have a rodent problem?
As our habitats have merged, rodents have come to somewhat depend on us for food, water, and shelter. They feed from compost bins, gardens, trash cans, and pet food bowls, and they drink from bird feeders, clogged gutters, and leaky fixtures. Additionally, they nest in and around our properties in places that provide them with safe, secluded shelter.
Where will I find rodents?
Rodents live successfully in urban, suburban, and rural areas. They live along riverbanks, in bushes and shrubs, in dense vegetation, in tall grasses, under decks or sheds, under woodpiles, and in the foundation of your property. Rodents that have moved inside while foraging for food or searching for better environmental conditions are often found nesting in hard-to reach-areas within your property such as above the ceiling, below the floor, behind wall voids, in crawlspaces, and behind large appliances.
How do I get rid of rodents?
The best way to eliminate rodents from your Colorado property is to partner with a local pest control expert. At Affordable Pest Control, we are committed to providing each of our customers with superior pest control services to meet their individual needs. Our experienced and knowledgeable technicians always perform the most advanced, effective services. To learn more about working together to rid your home or business of rodents and other pests, contact Affordable Pest Control today!
How can I prevent rodents in the future?
The following tips can help you to protect your Colorado home or business from becoming overrun with rodents:
- Cut tree branches, bushes, and shrubs away from the exterior of your property.
- Keep food in the refrigerator or in air-tight containers.
- Pick up fallen fruits and vegetables in garden areas.
- Put away leftover pet food between feedings.
- Keep outdoor eating areas free of debris.
- Remove bird feeders from your home or business.
- Regularly remove trash from your home or business.
- Keep tight-fitting or locking lids on outdoor trash cans and compost bins.
- Seal up openings in the foundation, exterior walls, and roofline of your home or business.
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