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Rodents have been notorious pests throughout human history. They can cause damage to your property and contaminate your food. If left untreated, they can even spread sickness to the residents of your home.

Australia has over 60 indigenous rodent species along with a few introduced species. They eat different types of food, and they have rapid breeding cycles, which is why they thrive so easily in most environments. They can wiggle through gaps as small as a 50-cent coin, which is why it’s so difficult to spot and catch them.

Common Rat Species in Australia

1. House Mouse – These rats live very closely with humans and can eat almost any type of food. They grow up to 10 cm in length, with tails that are as long as their body. They typically have grey fur and a pointed nose with big, hairy ears.

2. Black Rat – Also known as roof rats, black rats are around 20 cm long and can be identified by their spindle-like droppings. They are excellent climbers and can be found nesting in rooftops and small gaps inside buildings. They have a year-long lifespan, reaching maturity by the 4^th month, with females breeding up to six times.

3. Brown Rat – Also known as Norway rats, they can get up to 30 cm long and weigh up to 0.5 kilos. They have short ears, a blunt nose and can be identified through their banana-like droppings. They come out at night, and they have great swimming and digging skills.

Common Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Droppings – Feces are one of the first signs of a rodent infestation. Fresh rodent droppings remain shiny for 2 to 3 days, and they become dull and hard over time. Mouse droppings are 3 to 5 mm long, and rat droppings 13 to 18 mm. If you find droppings in your pantry shelves, cupboards, or inside wall cavities, it’s time to think about mouse extermination.

Gnawing – Rats and mice gnaw on plastic or wood to keep their incisors down. Chewed-up storage containers or bags of food are very distinct signs that you have an infestation. They can even gnaw on your electrical wires and cables, adding to potential damage.

Nests – Rodents build nests using shredded paper, cardboard, and rags. They prefer hidden, warm areas close to food areas.

Scurrying sounds – Mice and rats make noise no matter what they do. When everything in your house is still, and you can hear small scurrying sounds in the walls or floors, you almost certainly have a rodent infestation.

Why Rodent Pest Control Is Important

Rodent removal is vital because there are many serious health risks related to mouse and rat infestations. If your food is contaminated with rodent droppings, it can cause mouse typhoid or meningitis. Direct contact with rat droppings can lead to leptospirosis.

Mice carry ticks that can cause Lyme disease as well as fleas that can cause Murine Typhus fever. Rodents also carry common allergens that can trigger asthma.

Mice and rats can cause a lot of damage to your home—they are indiscriminate with the objects they gnaw on, and you may lose valuable property if mice can find their way to it. Chewed-up electrical wiring can cause your appliances to malfunction, or worst-case scenario, a spark that leads to a house fire.

Conclusion

There are many indigenous rat species found in Australia, and one or more of them may find their way inside your home, where they can cause serious health issues and property damage. A rodent problem is challenging to do away with on your own. The most effective way to get rid of rats and mice is to hire professional pest control services.

If you need pest control services in Sydney, CROSSFIRE Pest Solutions is here for you. We provide our clients with an all-around superb and hassle-free experience. We offer you appropriate solutions that won’t break the bank and are safe for the area and the environment. Contact us for a free consultation today!