A guide to identifying common mice and rat species

Rodents spread dangerous diseases and can cause major property damage.  So it’s important for you to know and familiarize with the types of specie your dealing with. Here is a guide to help you identify common mice and rat species.

Deer Mice

Deer mice pose a significant health threat because they are the most common carrier of Hantavirus. This virus is transmitted primarily by the inhalation of dust particles contaminated with the urine, feces or saliva of infected deer mice.

House Mice

House mice can cause serious property damage by chewing through materials. In fact, they have been known to spark electrical fires by gnawing on wires inside homes.

Norway Rats

They are known as vectors of disease, such as plague, jaundice, rat-bite fever, cowpox virus, trichinosis and salmonellosis. In addition, these rats can introduce fleas and mites into a home.

Roof Rats

Historically, roof rats and their fleas have been associated with bubonic plague.