
You’re relaxing in your Florida home, enjoying a sunny afternoon, when you hear the unmistakable sound of scurrying feet above your head. Your heart sinks as you realize that some unwelcome visitors have taken up residence in your attic.
There’s no doubt that Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather, but unfortunately, that same warm weather that’s attracted you to the Sunshine State is also inviting in rodents.
So what are the most common rodents in Florida?
What Are the Most Common Rodents in Florida?
Florida is home to more rodents than just Mickey Mouse. Here’s an overview:
1. Norway Rats
Norway rats, also known as brown rats or sewer rats, are the heavyweight champions of the rodent world, famous for their adaptability in both urban and rural environments. Here in Florida, they’re typically found in sewers, basements, and other low-lying areas.
They have a knack for gnawing through almost anything – wood, plastic, even electrical wiring. With their nocturnal habits, you might not see them, but the evidence of their presence – chewed furniture, droppings, and oily rub marks – will be hard to miss.
2. Roof Rats
Unlike their Norway cousins, roof rats prefer high places. These nimble rodents are excellent climbers, typically found nesting in attics, trees, and roofs. Florida’s tropical climate provides the perfect environment for them, particularly in areas with plenty of vegetation.
Roof rats are smaller and more agile than Norway rats, allowing them to squeeze through tiny openings. They can cause significant damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and even pipes. If you hear scratching sounds coming from above, there’s a high chance you’re dealing with roof rats.
3. House Mice
House mice are the most common type of mouse found in Florida homes. These small rodents can cause big problems due to their rapid breeding cycle and insatiable curiosity. They’ll make nests in walls, attics, and even stored boxes, using whatever materials they can find – paper, fabric, or insulation.
House mice are notorious for contaminating food supplies with their droppings and urine. They’ll gnaw through packaging to get to your pantry staples, posing a significant health risk. These rodents are small, but the damage they cause can lead to costly repairs and potential health issues.
4. Field Mice
Field mice, also known as deer mice, are more commonly found in rural areas, but they can still make their way into homes, especially during colder months. They’re known for their distinctive two-toned coloring, with a white underbelly and brown upper body.
Field mice can cause similar issues to house mice, including gnawing and contamination. Most worrying, they’re also carriers of hantavirus, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with their droppings, urine, or saliva.
5. Eastern Gray Squirrels
Eastern gray squirrels are a common sight in Florida, often seen frolicking in backyards and parks. They seem cute and harmless, but these energetic rodents can cause significant damage if they decide to take up residence in your home.
Gray squirrels are notorious for chewing through wood and insulation to create nesting sites. They can also cause damage by gnawing on wires, which poses a fire hazard. If you hear activity during the day, especially early in the morning, you might have a squirrel problem.
6. Fox Squirrels
Fox squirrels are larger than their gray cousins and are often found in more wooded areas. They’re named for their reddish-brown fur, which resembles that of a fox. While they prefer living in trees, they can sometimes find their way into attics and eaves.
Fox squirrels can cause similar damage to gray squirrels, including chewing on wooden structures and electrical wiring. Their larger size means they can create bigger entry points, making it easier for other pests to follow suit. Keeping them out requires vigilance and regular maintenance of your home’s exterior.
How to Keep Rodents at Bay: 4 Tips
Now that you know who the worst offenders are, how do you keep them out? Here are some tips:
1. Seal Entry Points
The first line of defense against rodents is to seal any potential entry points. This includes gaps around doors and windows, cracks in the foundation, and openings around utility lines. Remember, rodents can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so don’t overlook even the tiniest gaps.
Use materials like steel wool, caulk, and weatherstripping to close off these entryways. For larger openings, consider installing metal mesh or hardware cloth to prevent rodents from gnawing their way in. Regularly inspect your home’s exterior to ensure these barriers remain intact.
2. Maintain a Clean Environment
Rodents are attracted to food and shelter, so maintaining a clean environment is crucial. Store food in airtight containers, promptly clean up spills, and keep your garbage bins tightly sealed. In the yard, keep vegetation trimmed and remove any debris or clutter that rodents could use for nesting.
Regularly clean your home, paying special attention to areas like the kitchen, pantry, and garage. Don’t forget to check and clean behind appliances and furniture, as these spots can become hiding places for rodents. A clean home is less inviting to these unwanted guests.
3. Use Traps and Baits
If you suspect a rodent infestation, traps (including snap traps, live traps, and glue board) along with baits can be effective tools for control.Place these traps along walls, behind furniture, and in other areas where you’ve noticed rodent activity.
For larger infestations, consider using rodenticides or hiring a professional pest control service.
4. Call in the Professionals
While DIY methods can be effective for minor infestations, severe or persistent rodent problems often require professional intervention. At Orange Pest Control, we have the experience to not only identify the different types of rodents that might be in your home, but also to implement targeted treatment plans.
We’ll use specialized equipment and techniques that are more effective than over-the-counter solutions. We also offer comprehensive solutions that address both the current infestation and potential future issues. This includes thorough inspections, targeted treatments, and ongoing monitoring to ensure your home remains rodent-free.
Why Worry About Rodents in Florida?
A rat here or a mouse there might not seem like a big deal, but the reality is that they can have a major impact on human health and well-being. For starters, some rodents can trigger allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals. Their droppings, urine, and shed fur contain allergens that can become airborne and affect indoor air quality. People with preexisting respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to these allergens.
Rodents are also common carriers of various diseases that can be transmitted to humans through direct contact, bites, or exposure to contaminated food and surfaces. Some of these diseases include hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis.
Long story short – keeping rodents out of your home is essential for protecting your family’s health.
The Takeaway
Rodents may be persistent and resourceful, but with the right strategies, you can keep them out of your Florida home.
Don’t wait for rodents to overrun your home. Instead, give Orange Pest Control in Brevard County, Florida a call. Our experienced team is ready to help you tackle any rodent problem, big or small, and make sure your home remains safe and secure.