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Pest Profile: Rodents (Rats and Mice)
Rodents are among the most destructive and concerning types of pests. They can be found in countless homes and businesses, and this category includes highly adaptable species like mice and rats. Once inside a structure, rodents can both cause serious structural damage and pose major health risks. Rodents are known for doing many types of harm including contaminating food, damaging insulation and wiring, and spreading bacteria.
Last Updated: January 4, 2026
What are Rodents?
Rodents have rapid reproductive cycles, which is why an infestation can grow so quickly. Female mice and rats can reproduce year-round if the conditions are right, and mice reach sexual maturity in just five or six weeks. Multiple litters can be produced each year, and each of those litters can include several young. Rats reproduce slightly slower than mice, but still quite frequently. Adult rodents tend to live for one to two years depending on environmental conditions.
Rodent Biology and Life Cycle
Rodents have rapid reproductive cycles, which is why an infestation can grow so quickly. Female mice and rats can reproduce year-round if the conditions are right, and mice reach sexual maturity in just five or six weeks. Multiple litters can be produced each year, and each of those litters can include several young. Rats reproduce slightly slower than mice, but still quite frequently. Adult rodents tend to live for one to two years depending on environmental conditions.
Rodent Habitat and Behaviour
Like most critters, rodents seek out food, water, and shelter actively. This makes homes and apartments attractive environments, where they will commonly nest in wall voids, attics, and basements. Mice and rats are both excellent climbers and gnawers, squeezing through tiny openings and chewing through just about anything in sight. Most rodent activity occurs at night, which is why infestations can be easy to miss until they become large and obvious.
Rodent Treatment Options
Preventing rodents from entering is a critical step in controlling a rodent infestation problem. Steps that can be taken include sealing cracks and gaps, installing door sweeps, repairing broken screens, and storing food in sealed containers. If an infestation is already in place, professional pest control services will use strategic trapping methods to effectively reduce populations.
Rodent FAQs
Q: Are rodents dangerous to humans?
A: Yes, rodents can be dangerous to humans. They can spread bacteria and disease (such as Hantavirus which can be contracted via exposure to rodent urine, droppings, and saliva), contaminate food, and cause extensive property damage.
Q: Why do rodents keep coming back?
A: Rodents will keep returning if entry points remain open and they find accessible food sources. Effective control of populations requires both removal and exclusion.
Q: Can I handle a rodent problem myself?
A: Small rodent issues may be handled with Do-It-Yourself(DIY) methods, but an established infestation is almost certainly going to need professional treatment to solve the problem.
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