Rodents 101: Fun Facts and Tips to Prevent this Home Invader

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has declared October 16-22, 2022, as Rodent Awareness Week, an annual observance recognized by Chase’s Calendar of Events to promote greater awareness about the threats rodents pose to health and property. When cooler weather arrives, rodents will seek out shelter for warmth and a new food source. Chances are, they could have their sights set on your home. Cowleys Pest Services, with the help of NPMA, has helpful prevention tips to avoid any intruders this fall as well as fun facts about mice and rats.

“Every year, an estimated 21 million U.S. homes are invaded by rodents according to NPMA,” said Bill Cowley. “Not only can rats and mice spread bacteria and diseases, but they can cause damage to your home as they chew through drywall and even electrical wiring. To prevent these pests, it is important to seal up any holes that allow entry to your home. This includes openings as small as a dime. Additionally, ensure all garbage is sealed properly and food is stored in airtight containers.” 

This Rodent Awareness Week, Cowleys is sharing some fun facts about rats and mice:

• Rats can fit through openings the size of a quarter while mice can squeeze through openings the size of a dime.
• These pests are known to transmit over 35 diseases including Salmonella, hantavirus and the plague.
• Mice can drop up to 25,000 fecal pellets every year, an estimated 70 times per day.
• A female house mouse can give birth to a half dozen babies every three weeks and up to 35 young each year.
• The Norway rat is believed to be of Asian origin, arriving in the U.S. on ships from other countries in the 1700s.
• Roof rats are primarily nocturnal.