You need to know whether it is a rat or a mouse on your premises. Both of them cause harm and spread the disease. Control measures of both are different. Brady Pest Control in Grand Prairie can make your work easier by eliminating both. Here is a guideline to help you understand the difference between rats and mice.
Physiological Differences: Identification Mouse vs Rat
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Size and Weight
- Rats: Rats are 11 inches long not including the tail. They are about 12 ounces in weight.
- Mice: They are small and about 3-4 inches long exclusive of the length of the tail. Mice weigh as low as half an ounce.
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Ears and Eyes
- Rats: Rats have small ears. The eyes are negligible compared to the size of the head.
- Mice: Ears and eyes are proportionally larger than the head.
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Tails
- Rats: Proportional tail, scaly and thick.
- Mice: A small rodent with a long and thin tail of the same length as the body.
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Nose Shape
- Rats: Blunt round noses
- Mice: Snout V-shaped, Triangular, and pointed.
Behavior Differences: Mouse Vs Rat
1. Nesting Habits:
- Rats: Rats nest in burrows, basements, or wall cavities.
- Mice: Mice nest in secluded areas. They are found near food sources, inside walls, or in insulation.
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Diet:
- Rats: Rats are omnivores. They prefer meat and grains.
- Mice: Mice eat grains and plants. They nibble on anything.
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Droppings:
- Rats: Rat droppings are larger. They are about 3/4 inch long and have a blunt end.
- Mice: Mouse droppings are smaller. They are about 1/4 inch long and pointed.
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Activity:
- Rats: Rats are cautious. They explore new environments carefully.
- Mice: Mice are curious. They explore new things frequently.
Signs of Infestation: Rat Vs Mouse
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Gnaw Marks:
- Rats: Large gnaw marks. Damaged wood or plastic are signs of rats.
- Mice: Mice leave small gnaw marks and tiny holes.
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Tracks and Smears:
- Rats: Rats leave greasy smears. They have larger footprints.
- Mice: Mice leave smaller footprints. They have less noticeable smears.
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Sounds:
- Rats: Rats are noisy and can be heard;
- Gnawing
- Squeaking
- Moving around at night.
- Mice: Mice make softer sounds like light scurrying and squeaking.
Contact Brady Pest Control today for expert rat and mouse eradication in Grand Prairie, TX.
Control Strategies: Mouse Vs Rat
- Traps and Baits:
- Rats: Use larger traps and bait stations specifically designed for rats.
- Mice: Use smaller traps and bait stations for mice.
- Sealing Entry Points:
Rats: Seal large gaps and holes in the foundation, walls, and roof.
Mice: Seal even the smallest cracks and crevices. Mice can squeeze through tiny spaces.
- Professional Help:
Whether dealing with rats or mice, contacting Brady Pest Control in Grand Prairie, TX, ensures safe and effective eradication.
Final Words!
Make sure that any rat or mouse infestation is found and dealt with as soon as possible if you want to keep your house safe. Knowing the difference allows you to select appropriate strategies against them.
For professional help in Grand Prairie, TX. you can call Brady Pest Control. They provide high-quality elimination services that are safe and meant for your condition as they have been in this field for a long. Do not allow any pest to be in charge of your house; contact us! Fill out our form. Or call 817-714-5875 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mouse and a rat?
Mice are small and thin, while rats are large and stout.
How can you tell a mouse from a rat?
- Mice have smaller bodies, large ears, and longer tails compared to their body size.
- Rats have thicker bodies, smaller ears, and shorter tails relative to their body size.
How do I know if I have rats or mice?
Look for droppings: mouse droppings are small and pointed, while rat droppings are larger and more rounded.
Are mice or rats harmful?
Yes, they can spread disease and gnaw on and nest in property.
What does a rat look like?
Rats are large with thick bodies, small ears, blunt noses, and shorter, scaly tails.
Call Brady Pest Control to professionally rid of rats and mice from your Grand Prairie, TX, home!