Rodent Identification & Prevention

What Are Rodents?

The easiest way to describe a rodent is to refer to its front teeth. All rodents living worldwide, no matter their shape, size, or color, all share one physical characteristic: continuously growing front incisors. A rodent's front teeth grow throughout its life and, due to their constant chewing, are worn down into a chisel-like shape. Mice and rats are the most common example of rodents that home and business owners in Henry County are very familiar with. Both mice and rats have a close relationship with people; they've learned that living in close proximity to humans helps them survive.
In our region, several different species of rodents that are regular visitors to our homes and businesses:

Mice: 

• House Mouse
• Deer Mouse
• White--Footed Mouse
• Meadow Vole
• Prairie Vole

Mice are one of the most common pests in homes and businesses. Known for their adaptability and rapid breeding cycles, house mice can be challenging to control. They can carry pathogens that may lead to food contamination, cause structural damage by gnawing on building materials, and contaminate surfaces with droppings and urine. Proper identification, inspection, and treatment can help manage infestations effectively.

Rats:

• Norway Rats
• Roof Rats
• Woodrat

Rats can transmit diseases, contaminate food, and cause structural damage. Our goal is to use an integrated pest management (IPM) approach that combines effective identification, treatment, and long-term prevention measures. Rodent control is essential in maintaining a safe and sanitary environment.

Are Rodents Dangerous?

Rodents are dangerous not only because they use their front teeth to damage our personal items and home's structure (wires, pipes, cables, drywall, flooring, cabinets) but because they are vectors of harmful bacteria and diseases.

Rats and mice carry and spread many different diseases through their excrement and salvia that can make us sick. These pests spread leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM), tularemia, salmonellosis, and rat-bite fever. Other problems that rodents cause when inside of our structures include the following:

• Triggering allergies reactions and asthma attacks
• Causing short circuits and fires from chewing through wires
• Creating a musty, mildewy odor near their nesting sites
• Chewing larger entrances and exits in the exterior of your home
• Contaminating food and surfaces

Identifying the Causes of a Rodent Problem

The unpredictability of the Henry County weather can sometimes make it difficult for wild animals to live comfortably. Over time, mice and rats have learned that living near or inside our homes or businesses will provide them with everything they need to live comfortably.

Our properties provide rodents with the following:

• Food
• Water
• Temperature-controlled shelter

Common Hiding Spots for Rodents 

Where rodents feel most comfortable depends on their species. The roof rat prefers to live and nest up off the ground while the Norway rat is a terrible climber and lives at ground level. The house mouse is small and agile and can make a home just about anywhere.

One thing these rodents have in common is they are all prey animals and will choose a secluded area to nest that keeps them out of the direct sight of people and their animal predators. Outside, they like to nest in trees and under shrubbery, woodpiles, fallen trees, and yard clutter.

Some of the most common places you'll find rodents in a home include:

• Attics
• Cabinets
• Roof eaves
• Wall voids
• Behind cabinets and appliances
• Basements and closets
• Under furniture
• In boxes and other clutter

How to Get Rid of Rodents?

Once inside, rodents will have no desire to leave your home which makes them difficult pests to get rid of. At Jerry's Pest Management, we can help you to take back your property from rodents with the help of our effective rodent control services and over 40 years of experience! We care about our customers and are committed to helping you solve your pest problems. You can trust that we'll rid your property of rodents and help keep them from returning. To learn more about working together and implementing our quality pest control services to protect your Henry County residential or commercial property from Missouri rodents, reach out to us today!

Tips to Prevent Future Rodent Infestations

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from rodents with the following prevention tips:

• Remove items from your yard that are unnecessary and act as nesting sites for rodents like old tires, construction materials, fallen trees, and other yard debris.
• Cut back shrubbery and tree branches away from your home's exterior.
• Repair leaky outdoor fixtures and hoses that could provide a water source for rodents.
• Limit their access to food on your property by removing bird feeders, keeping lids on trash cans, maintaining compost areas, and keeping outdoor eating areas free of food debris.
• Eliminate their access into your home by repairing holes in its exterior, covering vents and drains, maintaining caps on chimneys, and installing weatherstripping around windows and doors.

Why Choose Jerry's Pest Management for control of Rodents?

• Over 40 years of trusted service in Henry County and surrounding areas.
• Safe, family-friendly treatment options.
• Experienced, professional technicians who care about your comfort and peace of mind.

Let Jerry's Pest Management help you reclaim your space. Call us today to schedule your treatment of Mice and Rats!  Experience the difference that family dedication and decades of experience can make. 

At Jerry's Pest Management, we’re here for you — because protecting your home and business is our family tradition.