Recognizing the Common Signs Of A Rodent Infestation In New Mexico

8 Signs you have a rodent problem in your NM home

• Droppings everywhere
  One of the most obvious signs of a rodent infestation is finding their droppings around your home. They're typically small, dark, and pellet-like, often resembling grains of rice. Keep an eye out for these little "presents" in your pantry, under sinks, or in the attic.
• Chew marks & gnawed items
  Rodents have constantly growing teeth, and to keep them in check, they gnaw on anything they can find. Check for chew marks on electrical wires, cardboard boxes, furniture, building materials, and even food packages and food containers. If you see irregularly shaped holes or gnawed edges, that's a clear sign you have some unwanted tenants.
• Strange noises in the night
  Have you been woken up by strange scratching, squeaking, or scampering noises in the walls or ceilings? Mice and rats are nocturnal by nature, so if you're hearing these sounds, it's a strong indication of their presence.
• Nesting materials
  Rodents are resourceful and will use what they find to create cozy nests. Look for shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or even dried plant matter in unusual places, like your attic, garage, crawl space, or basement. Finding a nest is a surefire sign that rodents have moved in.
• Greasy smudges on the walls
  As rodents navigate your home, they leave behind greasy marks on walls and baseboards. Over time, these smudges can accumulate and become more noticeable. Keep an eye out for these dark streaks, especially in areas frequented by rodents.
• Foul odors
  Rodent urine and dead rodents can create an unpleasant odor. If you notice a persistent, foul smell in certain areas of your home, it could be a sign of a significant infestation.
• Pet behavior
  Sometimes, your pets can be the best detectors of rodent activity. If your cat or dog suddenly becomes fixated on a particular area or starts pawing at walls, they might be sensing the presence of rodents.
• Visible rodents
  Of course, the most undeniable sign is actually spotting a rodent in your home. Whether it's a scampering mouse or a bold rat, their presence confirms you have an infestation.

Is it safe to live in a house with rodents?

More than a nuisance problem, when mice and rats infest homes they can pose serious risks to people and property. Here are a few reasons why living in a house with rodents is not a good idea:

• Health risks
  Rodents can carry a variety of diseases that can be transmitted to humans through their urine, droppings, and saliva. Hantavirus, salmonellosis, and leptospirosis. Additionally, rodent droppings, urine, and dander can trigger allergies and asthma in some individuals.
• Property damage
  As we mentioned above, mice and rats are always gnawing on something to keep their incisors at a manageable length and can cause extensive damage to your home. They may chew through electrical wiring, insulation, wooden structures, and even water pipes – this damage can result in costly repairs and fire hazards.
• Fleas & ticks
  Both mice and rats in New Mexico can carry fleas and ticks on their bodies. When they come indoors, these biting pests may drop off rodents and find new victims. This could be you, your family, and your pets.

What to do if you suspect your home has been taken over by mice or rats

At the first sign of a rodent problem in or around your home, contact the local pest control pros at Greenway Pest Solutions. Since 2016, our New Mexico pest control company has been providing home pest control services that eliminates mice and rats as well as insects that try to sneak inside during the fall and other times of the year. What’s more, our ongoing protection stops pests from re-infesting!

Reach out today to learn more or to request a free pest control quote.