rats & mice
RODENTS
Roof Rat – is the most common of the two species of rats found on south Vancouver Island. The roof rat is black or grey in color and will grow to about 10 inches in length, not including the tail. As the name suggests, these animals are excellent climbers. They prefer to roost up high, so these rats will commonly infest attic and roof spaces.
Norway Rat – is the bigger of the two rats, and will grow to 12 inches
in length. Norway rats are brown in color. These animals prefer to burrow
as opposed to climbing. These rats will commonly enter down low into
basement and crawlspace areas.
What attracts rats?
Some things that may attract rats to your home include: bird feeders,
wood piles, compost piles, rotting fruit, over grown foliage or lawns,
pet food dishes, garbage, rubbish piles, and ornamental ponds.
Never attempt to poison rats inside of your home. After feeding on poison it will take 5 to 7 days before a rat will die. During this time they may crawl away and perish in an inaccessible wall, floor, or ceiling void. The result will be crawling maggots, flesh flies and a putrid smell that may last for several weeks
Mice – The two main species found on the south end of the island are
the house mouse and the deer mouse. The house mouse is by far the most
common species in Victoria. These animals will commonly infest homes
and business’s. They can gain entry through the smallest of openings and can even squeeze through openings as small as a dime.
The other mouse found our region is the deer mouse. Deer mice are
commonly found in outlying rural areas.
Do rodents carry disease?
Yes, both rats and mice are potential carriers of disease. Hantravirus
is the disease that has been in the news the last few years. This may
be contracted through disturbing rodent droppings. This is a virus that
attacks the respiratory system and can be fatal. Never attempt to sweep
or clean up rodent droppings without proper respiratory equipment.
Old Island can professionally clean and disinfect rodent infested areas.