Photo Album: Multiple rodent entry points in Toms River, NJ

Recently, I was called out to inspect an apartment unit in Toms River, NJ after the tenants had found rodent droppings in their bedroom and kitchen. Often, droppings are the first sign of a rodent infestation. The boiler room closet had a leaking drop pan forming a puddle of water. Mice not only forage for food, but also water, and any standing water is a potential rodent (and for that matter, insect) attractant. Taking simple precautionary steps such as ensuring there is no food or water sources can go a long way preventing and discouraging mice and other wildlife and inspects from nesting in your home.

Mice droppings

I identified the droppings as mouse droppings. They were small, granular in shape like rice, black, and pointed on both ends. Their droppings indicate those areas inside the home where they are most active and finding the trail often leads to their entry points inside the home and their travel pattern once inside.

Mice entry

Identifying the gaps providing rodent entry.

Mice exclusion

Using resin foam we close up entry points.

Exterior entry

Here, during my inspection, I found several access points where mice could easily enter and travel. It doesn't take much for them to find their way in - any gap, crack, or service about the width of a dime is plenty. The apartment had an open exposed wall under the kitchen sink as well as holes around the exterior foundation and a basement window

Exterior entry point

Other rodents pick up the scent trail and can attract even more mice. I also installed RTU ("Ready-to-Use") rodent bait stations. These stations have bait that is locked inside preventing non-target animals from access it. Also, during a follow-up visit, these stations help me determine the level of rodent activity by how much fo the bait has been eaten and needs to be replenished.

Exterior after exclusion

I used an expanding foam resin to seal the openings and prevent any more rodents from entering the apartment.

RTU bait station

With the stations in place there will be a quick knock-down of rodent activity and, before leaving, I scheduled a follow-up visit to re-inspect and provide additional treatment as needed.